Keepers of the Circle”
by Toni Austin-Allen
“From the deepest caves
the darkest forests
and most desolate deserts
we walk toward each other with purpose
through the beating of our hearts
the exhilaration in our bodies
and the knowing in our spirits
understanding that connection comes
when we share our most authentic selves
with those in circle
drumming singing dancing
There is no greater way to live
than to listen to the circle with love
and embrace what comes in each moment
to the person right in front of us
There is no sound greater
than the sound of sacred silence
being drawn from the skin of a drum
with the hand of stillness
beating the rhythm of life
into the energy of existence
There are none more worthy
than those who give generously
the gift of connection through music
a connection held fast
by the two wings of
compassion and wisdom
We are the keepers of the circle
may we rise together as one
We are the keepers of the circle
may we beat our drums as one
We are the keepers of the circle
may we live as one
Toni Austin-Allen
October 30, 2024″
