Headwaters Offerings

Good relationship with the waters

Long ago in the Catskills, wise elders built fires and spoke with the sacred mountains that watch over the land. “You give us great abundance,” they said. “What do you ask of us in return?”

The mountains answered: “Here you will find abundant game, berries, medicinal plants, and the sweet sap of maple and birch. All of these arise from the waters flowing down our sides. If you wish to remain in good relationship with us, we ask that you honor the waters.”

Near the Blue Deer land stands a small sacred mountain. Springs emerge on this mountain and join to form the headwaters of a sacred river called Saskawhihiwine. As it moves through what is now Blue Deer Center, the river carries the voice of the land. In ancient times, Saskawhihiwine identified the Blue Deer land as a sacred place of healing and conflict resolution.

Twice each year, we go to the mountain and gather at a small spring that is part of the river’s headwaters. We leave offerings from the bounty of the land and offer prayers of gratitude and respect. In this way, we seek to remain in right relationship with the waters and the sacred mountains.

“I had a very sweet experience of stillness, silence, and service as we took the path through the kindly welcoming trees in the forest and offered our gratitude to the waters which bless us and sustain us. ... I also received a personal inner experience of guidance which was an unexpected gift and which affirmed the lively communication and exchange of love that was taking place through this simple practice of remembrance.” –V.B.

This semi-annual ceremony, held in spring and fall, will be led by Anna-Lena Hilton.

We will gather for orientation at 11 am sharp, so please arrive early.

After orientation, we will caravan to the trailhead to reach the headwaters.

Please plan to be away for about 2 hours.

When we return, we will share a picnic lunch (please bring your own), and you are welcome to spend time on the land and browse our Huichol Art Gallery.

Please bring waterproof footwear, as we will be walking through some wet terrain. Rain gear is also recommended, regardless of the forecast.

Blue Deer Center

1155 County Highway 6, Margaretville, NY 12455

Nestled in the Catskill Mountains on 93 acres of land and forest, the Blue Deer Center is embraced by “Saskawhihiwine,” the river of peace. For millennia, this land has been known as a place where conflict is resolved and illness gives way to balance. Blessed things happen here that cannot happen even a short distance away, for this sacred place offers a unique spiritual medicine that supports transformation.

* All of our programs are made possible by the generosity of our donors and volunteers.