From Chapter 1: Creating New Traditions

The blessingway rituals presented within Mother Rising draw upon the rich traditions of many cultures, having been crafted from the mixed heritage and life experiences of many women. Though initially inspired by the earth-based ways of the Native American culture, these rituals are not intended to represent, nor be executed as, reenactments of a sacred Native American Blessingway ceremony. The word "blessingway" is used conceptually, with due honor and respect, to describe a non-Native ceremony that celebrates a woman's passage into motherhood.

When we create blessingways for each other, we women reach outside of ourselves and weave a web of community: a living breathing web of women who are blessing, teaching, and supporting one another-and as a result, we help to give birth to each other's children.

As women. we receive a great deal by coming together in this way. We can raise energy and strength, or provide comfort and support. We can help one another let go of the past, live fully in the present, and embrace the mystery of the future. We learn to honor each other as well as ourselves, and we tap into the vibrant energy of the collective feminine spirit. By connecting on this level, we gain the power to deepen our friendships, build our communities, feed our spirits, and perhaps even to revitalize our culture.