The Meaning Of Burningman from our Beloved Founder
What is Burning Man?
Many people ask me, and as someone who has gone 13 times, I would like to share and reflect on my journey to the Playa in a short written testimonial.
The first assumption and impression are that BM is just sex, drugs, and rock n roll. Depending on the individual, this factor can be true or far from the truth. For most participants, BM is a deep Spiritual journey into the self. The beauty is that it's 100% up to you.
The bottom line is that BM is what you make of it. How you choose to live your desert life is similar to your everyday reality with an extra touch of lessons, challenges, and magic. Once you figure out your navigation systems, BM can be instantly rewarding, and manifestations happen lightning fast.
Be mindful of your words, thoughts, and actions as they play to your advantage or demise in this adult amusement park of creative Spirit. Choose your adventure and put your energy into what you would cultivate just like you would in the "default" world.
Yes, a lot is going on in the form of distractions, beauty, and opportunities for connection. But, in my opinion, the natural surrounding alone is worth the price of admission and effort in getting there. They say it's all about the journey rather than the destination.
Once there, you have an immense playground to explore and interact within. I have laughed, cried, loved, hated, and prayed harder than any other place in the world. The Black Rock Deserts' empty canvas allows you to physically rewrite or create your painting of the life you choose to live with the limited time left on this planet.
The one lesson I have taken away from my BM career that I can apply to everyday living is "the slower you go, the better the flow!" For me, this translates to being present and paying attention to the signs and synchronicities.
Going with the flow has an entirely different meaning in a place with no money exchange and where time is irrelevant. This facet is essential because you're in a place where you can quickly get hurt, dehydrated, or die if you're not paying attention. This reality is not an exaggeration or myth. It is a real potential, so it's essential to be ultra-aware and prepared for the unexpected.
That being said, BM is one of the most incredible times I have ever seen or experienced in this reality. The love, magic, and care are unparalleled to anything else I have felt outside that orange trash fence that keeps us in this vast container of chaos.
People go out of their way to share art, food, drinks, music, conversation, and more! I learned how to give unconditionally to random strangers on the path and share whatever I had to offer. The joy and bliss from this simple act can ripple out into all areas of life, and for this, I am grateful to go back and apply it to all areas of my life. So have a wonderful time out there if you go or whatever you choose this beautiful day. Be well and take care of yourself and each other.
Bless your life!
Erik Suarez, aka Osiris Ishpa Palo
