Folk Fires!

We can’t remember rain like this since…Folk Fires! And whilst that day was a wash out in terms of the weather it certainly didn’t dampen the spirits of our UPLIFTER’s who in true community style made the best of it!

In the weekend of the passing of her Majesty the Queen, like many events at the time there was thoughtful consideration as to whether the event would go ahead, however we know that in times of uncertainty we need to come together more than ever and so undeterred by the weather this Green UPLIFT was go.  

Due to the weather, plans were adapted but still the people came. Everyone mucked in and there was and a real sense of community spirit and a coming together in adverse circumstances. Taking time to look at the light falling through the trees, UPLIFTER’s shared stories and memories in a quiet moment of reflection in the beautiful outdoor church area of Silkstone Woods.

As well as the down pour, the sky threw up some incredible storms, the sense that nature was responding to shift in the world on that day. Tuning in to the environment, UPLIFTER’s took shelter and shared their experiences of nature in response to what was happening in the world and the wellbeing of the world.

We were joined by yoga teacher and sound therapist, Sarah Teal who led mindful movement and meditation around natural sounds. Many shared that they’d not experienced anything quite like it, but it had really made them listen and think about what they were listening to. UPLIFTER Gillian also delivered a Forest Schools exercise using materials from the landscape to create pagan stars.

The making continued with everyone mucking in to help make bonfire bbq beans and rocky road intended to be eaten around the campfire! Whilst the weather put out any fires it was lovely to come together and cook for the first-time post pandemic.  

As the Autumn evening drew in, we gathered to listen to folk music and stories from Rebecca and Nick. With the dark skies outside a real gig vibe was created, and whilst cold in temperature there was such warmth in the atmosphere.

It's become apparent to us throughout this programme the importance of planning but also the importance in following through on those plans and in Green UPLIFT we submit to the elements come what may! Folk Fires really was the epitome of the proverbial expression ‘best laid plans’ and yet it was one of the most soul enriching UPLIFT’s in the calendar with overarching themes of community and connection coming out of the day. It confirmed just how important community is, especially at a time when so much is changing and uncertainly lies. It showed how community can be created anywhere amongst any conditions and how it can ground you. And it reinforced that nature is always there, and we can always connect with it.