"Han han katu" This was our response, our affirmation (translated "so let it be") of each person's word being put into the circle. "Unity" "Han han katu" "Acceptance" Han han katu"  "Blessings" "Han han katu" After each person shared their word into the circle, we closed the circle with connected hands and lift the offering of words into the sky. Joyous sounds (yells, calls, etc) went with them. As our hands came down we kneeled and placed our hand on the earth. Offering the same energy and receiving it back. Lastly we placed our hands over our hearts, closing our eyes to take in all the positive energy from Mother Earth, Father son and each other.

This was the end of the closing ceremony at the 9th Gathering of the Taino people held in Jayuya. We were all apart of the ceremony and will never be the same having gone through it. To enter the circle we had to remove our shoes, wash our hands and head with a small amount of scented water, as well receive a smoke cleansing from head to toe front and back. Once you stepped inside the circle you walked counter clockwise to acknowledge and give respect to the mother ancestors and then clockwise to respect to the father ancestors. After taking a place in the circle of your liking, a small fire in the middle, the ceremony began. Instructions were given, which included the need to have a gift to give to your new family member during the ceremony. Not having known about the ceremony we were all giftless - but not to worry. Our hosts made sure we had a gift. One of the vendors sacrificed some of her wares so that we would all have something.

Fire going, circle complete, gifts in hand, we counted off and made two circles - an inside circle and an outside circle. The drum began to play and each circle walked to the beat of the drum opposite each other's direction. The drum would get faster, singing and calls were added as well as dancing. When the drum stopped, we turned and went the other direction in the same manner. At the final beat of the drum you turned and faced whoever was next to you and that was your new family member. You first hugged them, then exchanged gifts and talked to them. Specific people (mostly elders) shared messages/wisdom with the circle after the gift giving and a momentous event happened. There was a decision made to begin a men's circle. People weighed in on the importance of needing and beginning this circle and all were deeply satisfied and happy that it was being create. History was made right before our eyes and we can say that we were a part of it!

 At the end, everyone gave EVERYONE a hug and kind words of welcome and blessings.
While in the circle you could feel the reverence and respect for nature, for the spirit world and for each other.. It was such an honor to be invited to participate in such a sacred ceremony and to be welcomed into their family. The connections we made will be long lasting and the personal effect is a life long memory we take with us. What an amazing experience that will change us forever. Han han katu!