Keeping Kith with Storms

It’s a big week here! We’ve just had a blizzard and by the end of the week it is forecasted to be 80 degrees. Even those of us who are used to the extremes of a western Dakota spring have to marvel at the scope of wild weather we are experiencing. Honestly, keeping kith has never felt more important to me, which is why I’m very thankful this week also brings two different opportunities to gather. Finding a calm center may not be possible right now, but we can find stability, joy, and connection in the spaces we share, and I believe those are the structures that help tether us to the deep love this moment calls for.The first gathering is on the Spring Equinox this Friday…5 pm mountain time (4 pacific, 6 central, 7 eastern) and we will discuss a few upcoming events, including one for World Water Day—more on that below—as well as how we can be cultivating kithship in our own communities. Then Nicole Stone, of Dharma Wellness, will lead us through a brief intention setting activity as we think about the seeds we are sowing in our lives and communities. We will end with a chance to chat for anyone who wants to stay on the call. Message me for the zoom link.And here’s the info for our second event: On World Water Day (March 22, 2026), we invite people everywhere to pause and gather with water at 10:00 AM Mountain Time. You might visit a river, lake, spring, or ocean, gather with friends at a local waterway, or simply sit with a bowl of water from your tap if travel isn’t possible. These gatherings are intentionally independent—each person or group is free to shape their time in whatever way feels meaningful. Whether in silence, spoken words, or collective reflection, each gathering becomes part of a wider network of people showing up for water—together, at the same time, wherever we are.To support these gatherings, I’ve created a toolkit in collaboration with some beautiful healers and activists that offers simple ideas to help you host or participate in a gathering if you’d like guidance. Use what’s helpful, and feel free to ignore the rest…these are just suggestions!Toolkit for Gathering1.)Vocalizing–Participants introduce themselves out loud. Can be as simple as “Hello, my name is…I’m here to celebrate you!” directed at the water. Encourage people to vocalize love and support for the water that supports us. Every human’s voice is unique and uniquely powerful!2.)Listening–Participants can observe a few moments of silence. This time can be for listening, noticing, and meditating.3.)Setting intentions–What commitment can we make to cultivate an ongoing relationship with the water, especially local waters? How can we broaden our convictions in community to keep showing up to protect and support our waters’ health?Additional ideas to incorporate into your gathering:*Consider broadcasting live via a social media platform to invite more people into connection with their local waterways*Bring watercolors + paper and have participants use water from your waterway to paint a mini-mural*Bring instruments or add songs to the vocalizing part of your gathering. Song ideas: “Water is Life” by Sara Thomsen“Water Song” by Amber Lily*Post a video from your gathering (with participants’ permission) and add a hashtag#worldwaterday #bhworldwaterday #westernsodakworldwaterday #keepingkith*Additional Reading: The Power of Eight, by Lynne McTaggartCreated in collaboration withKithship CollectiveBetter Together: People Over PartyUnity HarmonicsRadiant Health Yoga & Wellness StudioFall River StewardsBlack Hills Environmental CoalitionDharma Wellness Institute Get full access to Our Little Pasture at elizablue.substack.com/subscribe