A few weeks ago we attended the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest in Phoenix. It is a favorite event of ours and I have been looking forward to the right time to share the photos.  Circular Wonders in photography?

This is it!”  

Do you want to come along?

Hoop dancing is a deeply-rooted tradition of the American Indian Nations. The hoops (circle) symbolize the continuous cycles of life and nature, and the ceremonies are pivotal in restoring balance and harmony among its people.- Heard Museum

A circle, without beginnings and ends, is a reflection of eternity to them. I place myself into a mindset that now makes sense to me. I learn plant life is respected as the center of the earth, with the four directions acting as its nourishment. The east brings light, the south warmth, the west rain, and the north cold – to encourage strength and endurance.

With contemplation, I think of how our moon sets to greet day. I am reminded of the how the wind swirls and every drop of rain spreads out in concentric rings. And what of the seasons? Each one ready to greet the other with open arms, purpose and necessity.

Interesting to me… even the turquoise jewelry carries a connectedness from the earth, doesn’t it?.

Now take all of that knowledge and transform it into a harmonious dance. That’s what you see, and feel at the Hoop Contest.

The dancers are judged on precision, rhythm, presentation, creativity, and speed. Staying with the beat and chant of the six to eight drummers is paramount. It is fascinating to watch the drummers, selected from different tribes, play simultaneously, and also signify unity.

And I come away with more than an admiration for the talent we witness. I come away with more than an appreciation of the heritage and traditions of connected nations. I sit back and watch the pride and camaraderie of family and friends and realize this is more than just a dance. Today…

I come away with a profound look at the Circle of Life.

Wind Kisses, Donna