Welcome Home! If you are new to Rainbow Gatherings, this manual
will help you
understand the basics and how things are usually done. The idea is
that we
can all share, love, & respect, without anyone unnecessarily getting
hurt
(physically or emotionally). Rainbow Gatherings are a free, non-commercial
sharing of our hearts in the cathedral of nature. Because we recognize
that
we are all One, we live in a community of tribal anarchy where
each of us
can help to take care of each other. The Gathering works because people
take
responsibility for doing what needs to be done, and for gently teaching
each
other. Many hands working together make a strong tribe. We walk lightly
on
the Earth. We respect and care for each other & for all living
things. We
drop all forms of violence in our dealings with others and look for
peaceful
solutions to conflicts. We deal with each other honestly with open
hearts.
Much goes into coordinating a Gathering and much has been learned about
how
to make a Gathering happy and healthy. The Mini-Manual continues to
evolve
collecting our experience and wisdom into one printed place. Your
contributions are welcome. Growth is a learning process with no end,
and your
vision on something might teach us all.
OUR NAME
Any Gathering that bears the name "Rainbow" is a completely free,
non-commercial event. All supplies are donated or paid for with money
donated
to the "Magic Hat". There is no admission fee. No money is exchanged
within
the Gathering. This frees us from legal entanglements and guarantees
our
Constitutional right to gather on public lands. Our Gatherings are
open to
all peaceful people. There is no membership, no administration. There
are no
leaders. No one is turned away. Any non-violent person with a belly
button is
welcome. You are a Rainbow by simply deciding that you are one, and
your
voice is equal to that of any other Rainbow, be it your 1st gathering
or your 20th.
SCOUTING
Scouts provide a great service and commitment to the Family by finding
the
best location for our Gatherings that meet all essential criteria.
Experienced scouts research potential sites using topographical maps,
aerial
photos and leads from local folks. They then coordinate with regional
focalizers and attend Spring Scouting Rendezvous.
"HOWDY FOLKS"
When the Gathering site has been chosen, a "Howdy Folks" notice is
sent to
local focalizers and posted on computer networks. This notice contains
instructions for getting to the site and other specifics including
maps and
contact phone numbers. Focalizers make copies and otherwise pass the
info on
to Rainbow and New Age events, food-coops, community centers, etc.
SITE CRITERIA
It's rare for a site to have everything good in abundance, but it is
essential that every site have;
SAFE DRINKING WATER. This is numero uno. Deep springs or well protected
surface water. There should be an ample flow
rate to meet the drinking, cooking and washing needs for all
who might
gather. Figure a minimum of one gallon of water per
day per person. Springs should be a distance upstream from camping
areas,
marked & guarded to prevent contamination.
OPEN MEADOWS for councils, workshops, pageants, etc. Meadows should
be kept
clear of tents/camps.
FIREWOOD. A good supply of dead wood lying on the ground for fires.
PARKING. A large enough area for expected cars, vans and live-in vehicles
to
park safely. Parking areas should be close yet
clearly separate from the Gathering proper. You don't want easy
access for
car stereos, beer coolers and a rowdy party
scene. Alternative parking should be arranged for the physically
challenged. Only emergency and supply vehicles should be
allowed direct access to the actual Gathering site.
ACCESS ROADS. There should be one main road for access to the
Gathering
which is not a dead end that empties near the Main Gate. It is important
to
have a "back door" available for emergencies and heavy supplies.
SEED CAMP
At least a week before the Gathering is scheduled to start, a group
of people
arrive to find and develop water systems, set up the first kitchen
& a health
care system, and dig the first latrines. Seed camp folks design the
layout of
the actual Gathering by developing trails, selecting a Main Circle
site,
marking parking areas and setting up Welcome Home. Coop and Banking
Councils
are set up to address the needs of Seed Camp. Please do not show up
for seed
camp unless you are willing to chip
in on the work.
THE FOREST SERVICE
We cooperate with the rangers of the USDA Forest Service in doing the
job
they were hired for: protecting the land. The local forest rangers
are
notified of a Gathering from Seed Camp. We honor their ecological concerns
for a site, and we treat them with respect. They became rangers because
they
love the land as we do. At times, rangers have given the family valuable
tips, and wildseed for replanting. DO remember though that forest
rangers
are law enforcement officials that have the power to arrest you. We
choose
not to sign permits or to make agreements with the Government.
Since we are
a Gathering of equal Individuals, no one person has the right to represent
anyone else and thus no one has the authority to sign a permit
as a representative of the Rainbow Family. In choosing not to sign,
we are
exercising our Constitutional right to assemble peaceably.
THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion,
or
prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of
speech, or
of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and
to
petition the government for a redress of grievances.
WATER
Water sources are our lifeblood, and they must be protected from the
very
first day. The safest drinking water comes from springs. Once a spring
is
designated for use, it is marked off with strings or ribbons.
No campsite or
latrine should be located above or within 150 feet of these springs.
Never
pour liquid wastes into or near a water source or on the ground nearby.
Instead, dig a grey water pit at least 150 feet away. Never use soap
in a
water source, not even bio-degradable soap. Instead, use a water bucket
at
least 100 feet away. Never dip a canteen or cup into a water source.
Use a
common hose or dipper. Drink only water that you know has been
scientifically tested, boiled or adequately filtered. Even the purist
looking
water can contain micro-organisms that can cause severe intestinal
illness.
To be absolutely safe, water should reach a rolling boil for
a few minutes.
Keep your leashed dog away from faucets.
WILDLIFE
We gather in the Cathedral of Nature & disturb the environment
as little as
possible. Riverbanks and wetland are vulnerable ecosystems. Do not
go near
them. Older phyla like mosses & ferns are especially fragile. Leave
beaver
ponds alone. Stay far from baby animals. Grown animals defend their
young in
a beastly way. Use things where they lie. The more you move, the more
you
have to move back. Hang tarps from trees, use existing branches for
structure
rather than cutting and setting posts. Cut no living tree. Do not break
live
branches. Use only dead wood. Make few trails & stay on them. DO
NOT LITTER.
If you smoke, pocket your butts. If you pack it in, you must pack it
out. If
you don't, someone else will have to do it for you. Hence, pick up
trash left
by others who have not yet learned the Rainbow Way. Educate them with
kindness. Its good for the
soul. The earth is our mother, we must take care of her.
SHITTERS
If you gotta go, go to a latrine. If you don't know where one is, ask
at the
nearest kitchen. Don't wait until the last minute
to find a shitter since there might be some walking involved. NEVER
leave
waste unburried. Flies will find it, then they will find kitchen food,
then
people eat that food & get sick. Irresponsible disposal of human
waste can
easily create a very sick camp. Dig communal latrines:
*Latrines must be over 150 feet from open water or springs, never uphill
from
a spring, and clearly marked by signs &
ribbon from the trail to the latrine.
*Cut out sod and preserve it for replacement over the filled in hole
when the
latrine is full.
*Dig a deep, narrow pit. A long foot wide trench at least 4 feet deep
is
best. Keep the soil in a neat pile for fill-in later.
*Avoid having an open trench. Build a solid fly-tight cover with lids.
These
covers should be washed daily.
*Keep lime and./or ashes from a wood fire in a can nearby. Sprinkle
the lime
or ashes over your "donation" and then some
dirt to completely cover the waste.
*Large coffee cans with plastic lids keep toilet paper dry and clean.
*Maintain a container of water with 1% bleach nearby for handwashing.
*Latrines should be checked daily. When it is full to within 18" inches
of
the top, fill the remaining 18" with the saved sod,
and dig another latrine. Inform the nearest kitchens where the
new shitter
is. Digging a shitter is a most holy task. You
haven't been to a gathering till you've dug a shitter.
RECYCLING: Reduce - Reuse - Recycle
People should take their trash & recycling home with them, thereby
keeping a
balance of refuse distribution, and not over-
taxing the cleanup crew. After all, environmental consciousness is
something
we all always practice at home & as part of our daily lives, right?
Remember
to bring a bag or such to neatly store your waste. Pack it in. pack
it out.
Otherwise, if you simply must leave it behind: Don't mix recyclabes
and
trash together. Separate cans, glass & plastic from that which
is trash, and
bring it to a recycling station. We burn paper. Trash is placed in
plastic
bags and taken to a dumpster or landfill at least 50 miles from the
Gathering. Organic waste is buried in compost pits. Lost & found
items are
left for owners to reclaim until the end of the Gathering. Afterwards,
items
are placed into a free bin, and ultimately donated to local charities.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Neighborhoods are the reality of the Gathering. Community makes the
Rainbow
Vision come to life. Camp needs like feeding each other, maintaining
latrines, child care and security are focalized around kitchens and
neighborhood fires . When you first arrive, look for a group
of tents to
coordinate your camp with that suits your vibe. Camps usually form
around a
kitchen. Sometimes people from a same state /region camp together.
Neighborhoods provide security & enhance community spirit.
RAIN
Expect it. And hey! It takes rain to make a rainbow. Consider how rain,
wind,
runoff and puddles will affect your campsite
and fire. Do not place your tent in a low spot or gully. Dry riverbeds
may
flash flood. Ravines can become muddy quagmires. Keep trails on the
rises.
Cover tents with tarps and tie them close to the ground so wind won't
catch
them like a sail. Cover bulletin boards with plastic. Rain is liquid
sunshine.
FIRE
No private fires. Share an hearth with neighbors. When you build a
fire,
always have a shovel and at least a 5 gallon bucket of water at the
ready.
Use only dead and dry wood. Never throw plastic or synthetic materials
into a
fire. Select a safe location. A clearing is best. Avoid any overhangings.
Keep your fire low. Sparks fly far & even live trees can catch
fire. If you
must have a large fire, build it at least 20 feet from the treelines.
Beware
of root fires (tree roots can burn underground). Line the inside &
bottom of
your firepit with rocks. Scrape the ground free of loose duff, leaves
and
grass for at least 1 ft around your pit. Don't throw matches or cigarette
butts on the ground. NO FIREWORKS! The only fireworks you need are
in your
heart. Fire watch crews walk the camp to make sure that all fires are
properly tended. We are all on fire watch.
MAIN MEADOW
Main Meadow is the epicenter of the Gathering, located in an open field
large
enough to accommodate many people. It is where we coordinate Main Council,
Dinner circle, various prayers, celebrations, & events, including
our Silent
Meditation for World Peace on the morning of July 4th. There should
be no
tents or fires here. This meadow is for all. Its energy should be
kept clear and pure. Trade circle should not be in sight.
COUNCILS
We gather in council circles to voice and to creatively resolve the
issues
and concerns of our ever-evolving Gathering.
Councils are an excellent opportunity to help create the Gathering.
Participation in a council requires a focused mind, patience,
respect, a
listening ear and an open heart as we make decisions on how to best
serve the
Gathering. The power of respectful listening is sacred to the process.
There
are councils on all workings of the Gathering. This includes Main Council,
Vision council, COOPerations, Shanti Sena, Legal Liaison, Info, Rainbow
Guide, All Ways Free, Focalizers, Kitchens, Banking,
Firewatch, CALM, Bus Village, Clean-up, Cyberspace, etc.
MAIN COUNCIL
Main Council is held daily at Rainbow noon or early evening in the
Main
Meadow, and is announced by the blowing of a conch shell. Main council
deals
with issues of the Gathering in an open forum where ALL ARE WELCOME
to
participate. It is only in Main Council that decisions affecting the
entire
Gathering can be made. Anything can be discussed/expressed at main
council,
from the practical, to heartsongs & dreams. Health & safety
issues should be
resolved first, as council decisions may not be made after sunset.
COUNCIL PROCESS
Rainbow councils are an open process where everyone is invited to listen
and
speak. We sit in a circle and pass a feather (or other sacred object)
around.
Each person holding the feather speaks in turn without being interrupted.
The
holder has the right to honor or reject input from others. Talking,
listening, and sharing our deepest feelings, we find new perspectives
on
each other, and new ways of solving problems. Cross talking conversation
does
not serve the whole. Sometimes council process is more open,
with the
feather placed in the center, trusting that everyone can recognize
their
perfect moment to speak. At other times it is helpful and necessary
to have a
facilitator to keep an impartial focus, minimize digression, and remind
speakers of their responsibility to the circle and others waiting to
speak.
There are variations of circle design such as inner & outer circles,
spirals, etc.
CONSENSUS
Council consensus is how we have chosen to govern ourselves. Consensus
is our
attempt to discover the will of the Spirit through the hearts of the
people.
While discussing issues, if a resolve seems clear, a speaker may "Call
for
consensus by silence". If NO ONE objects to the proposal, then consensus
has
been reached, indicating a solution acceptable to everyone, not just
a
majority. Those who have objections may call to "block" consensus,
which
causes council dialog to resume. A block should only be made from a
place of
clarity & good conscience. One truth can change the collective
mind. It is
possible that Spirit has given the blocking voice a message that is
presently
beyond the perception of the council whole. However, an individual
placing
their will above that of the people is a most hurtful & disrespectful
offense. Since everyone is affected by a consensus, it is important
to
listen, respect, trust, and exercise good conscience. Egos should definately
be checked at the door. Council can be rewarding & exhausting.
CONCH SHELL HORN
Conch shell horns are the way we call the Gathering to center. Horn
calls
around noon signal council. Horns near dusk or morning signal meals
are being
served. At other times, horns usually mean something important has
happened
that demands quick attention.
FOCALIZERS
A Focalizer is anyone willing to be a focal point or conduit of energies
and
information. They focus efforts to tasks that need to be addressed.
Anyone
can be a focalizer to whatever degree they choose. If you see an overlooked
need, take the initiative and do it! Volunteering for too much can
burn you
out, so get help, lovingly delegate. Sometimes there are people waiting
to be
useful, with hidden talents. A good focalizer respects consensus, avoids
egoism, empowers & respects people, and allows them to learn, even
at the
price of inefficiency. They are not like leaders in Babylon. They are
not
placed OVER us. A focalizer lacking vision and wisdom will simply not
be
followed. Their election is ongoing.
LEGAL LIAISON
Legal is a group of people with knowledge of State and Federal laws.
They act
as advocates for the Family in regard to legal questions which are
of concern
to us, such as National Forest regulations, drug laws, search &
seizure
procedures, homelessness, hassles with officials, and arrested members
of the
Family. They serve as watch dogs on the workings of the authorities,
and
organize campaigns. Help from experienced lawyers is always appreciated.
NOTE: If you are stopped by the law on the way to a gathering, do not
consent
to searches. Your car is protected the same way a house is if you live
in it.
If you observe police harassement, stop & be a witness. If you
are harassed,
report it to Cooperations and/or Legal Liaison
SHANTI SENA
Shanti Sena is Sanskrit for peace keeper. If a problem develops, calling
"Shanti Sena" loudly will bring assistance. In truth, everyone is a
peace
keeper. We all watch out for each other. Often a group can prevail
in a
conflict where a single person can not. Some of the Family are professionally
trained in conflict resolution. Talking with Respect & Compassion
is tried
first. If physical intervention can not be avoided, it is done gently
without
inflicting injury. We respond nonviolently & with Love. In a general
sense,
We are all Shanti Sena. Help by minding your valuables & keeping
an eye on a
neighbors camp when their away.
C.A.L.M. - CENTER FOR ALTERNATIVE LIVING MEDICINE
CALM are the people entrusted with setting up public health and sanitation
systems, and with providing health care for Family members during the
Gathering. The CALM staff is made up of volunteers representing a broad
range
of healing
modalities from licensed professionals, to herbalist, body workers,
homeopaths and shamans. It is a workshop on how various healing techniques
can work in concert together to heal the body, mind and spirit with
an
emphasis on natural
healing. Practitioners often teach each other about various healing
approaches. A Rainbow Gathering is a healing place, we heal ourselves,
the
planet, and each other. Health information & preventative aids
like condoms
are available. CALM may be centrally located or at various healing
centers
throughout the site. CALM members often visit camps & kitchens,
to provide
"Hippy House Calls" and to check on sanitary conditions. Many CALM
members
are equiped with radios and are on-call 24/7. CALM always appreciates
the
donation of supplies, from first aid equipment to herbs, tinctures
and
remedies. Volunteers are also needed to help keep the unit functioning.
See
the CALM web site for a list of supplies and jobs that are needed to
create a
functional healing arts center: www.infolation.com/calm.
INFO
Info is the Gathering's communications center. All councils,
events, and
focalizers report here daily with announcements and needs. Anyone with
anything noteworthy to share should come here to pass the word. Lost
and
Found and Rumor
Control are here. Printed handouts on a variety of subjects can be
distributed here. Maps, rider boards, and bulletin boards are nearby.
There
is a "Volunteer Here" board for people wanting to plug in & help.
Projects
needing assistance make their needs known here. It is also a good place
to
report an emergency or large concern.
RAINBOW GUIDE
The Rainbow Guide is a non-commercial directory of our Family, compiled
and
published annually by volunteers with your contributions. The Guide
helps the
Family to connect with each other throughout the year. Copies of the
Guide
can usually be obtained at Info. Cards are available to be filled out
by
those who want to be listed in the Guide. Otherwise entries can be
mailed to
the guide address. Focalizers can help by collecting entries in their
area.
Since the Guide is free & non-commercial, contributions to cover
printing and
mailing expenses are always deeply appreciated. The guide is printed
in May
or June. Please don't wait till April to mail in your entries, and
please be
clear which years guide you ask for.
ALL WAYS FREE
Our free non-commercial Family newspaper. All Ways Free is an open
forum for
the expressions and visions of the Rainbow Family. It is contributed
to, and
produced, entirely by volunteers. Everyone is invited to contribute
their
heartsongs to AWF. It is available at the Gathering each year, and
can also
be obtained by writing to the AWF council. Donations are appreciated.
COOPERATIONS
Most day to day business is focalized through COOPerations. Tools and
building supplies, general assistance and Lost & Found are located
here.
Every area of service checks in with COOPerations daily. Work
crews can use
this as a base for organization. Plans for new camps and construction
should
be communicated here so that conflicts over land use & campsites
can be
avoided. A written log of event is kept. Banking, Supply and Info also
coordinate here.
THE MAGIC HAT
The fund raising instrument for any Rainbow event. A Gathering is free
for
everyone. But the supplies needed to keep everyone well fed and healthy
cost
money. This includes food, medical supplies, gas for shuttle buses
and supply
vehicles, etc. By giving generously to the Magic Hat, each of us helps
to
provide for all. The Magic Hat appears at group meals and is sometimes
carried by wandering minstrels. Giving early in the Gathering is more
helpful
than gradual contributions. Be wary of Magic Hats that are not inside
the
actual gathering site & personal hats being called "the Magic Hat".
The
surest safest place to contribute is at dinner circle in the main meadow.
Contributions are cared for by a Banking Council of at least 5 respected
Family members. They count all collected money daily, keep written
records of
the amounts, and make decisions as to how the money is allocated.
Receipts
are kept, and Banking council records are open to all who
wish to see them.
SUPPLY
Donations of food and materials are pooled and distributed here. Supplies
from individuals can be brought here as well. Banking funds allow
money-saving bulk purchases and help cut down waste. This is a major
operation, requiring daily
councils and the energy of many. Kitchen representives meet here to
discuss
their needs.
KITCHENS
Food is obtained from Supply & prepared by the helping hands of
hundreds of
volunteer choppers, slicers, peelers, stirrers,
fire tenders, and chefs. Some kitchens serve all day, some have specified
meals, some send food to Main Circle, and others offer specialized
fare like
popcorn or coffee. Food sent to Main Circle is vegetarian. Ideally,
Every
Rainbow should have their own cup, bowl, & spoon that they wash
thoroughly
after each use. Kitchens must be kept CLEAN. Enclose kitchens
with railings,
and set up hand washing stations. There is no faster way to spread
disease
than to serve contaminated food. Volunteers in kitchens must wash their
hands
before working with food, and must not have cuts or communicable diseases.
Work surfaces & implements are washed with bleach water before
and after use.
Food is served by servers with designated tools. People do NOT serve
themselves with their own utensils. Personal bowls should be served
at the
side of a pot, not over it. Supplies are not stored on the ground,
or in the
open. Pets are kept out of kitchens. Every kitchen has a dishwashing
station,
usually comprised of 5-gallon buckets. One for scraping debris into,
one with
hot soapy water for washing, one with clear water for rinsing, and
one with
water containing a capful of bleach or vinegar for disinfecting. Wash
water
is changed regularly. Dirty cookware should not sit around for hours.
Compost
pits are dug nearby for food waste. When the contents come up to within
a
foot of ground level, they are filled in with dirt. A mound of dirt
is left
on top to level as the waste underneath decomposes & settles. If
flies start
their own gathering at your
compost pit, then it's time to cover some of it up. Waste water goes
into
grey water pits. Kitchens constantly need firewood and water. Make
a habit of
bringing a piece of wood when visiting a kitchen. Each kitchen should
also
have a first aid kit.
FRONT GATE
When you volunteer for Front Gate, you get to see it all come in. The
parking
lot crew greets the world with hugs and info. They maintain an organized
and
secure parking area, and make an around the clock commitment that involves:
greeting new arrivals, giving out information, traffic control, security,
minor auto repair, maintaining a kitchen and fire circle, & an
active Shanti
Sena. Alcohol energy can be an issue here. Front Gate and Welcome Home
are
sometimes understaffed. Volunteering here is especially helpful.
BUS VILLAGE
Bus Village is for those who come in campers or live-in busses or vans.
Bus
village is a community of its own with kitchens,
councils, work crews, and Shanti Sena. Bus Village is usually well
situated
to help with Front Gate and Welcome Home.
SHUTTLES
Shuttles are rugged busses or trucks that can provide almost continuous
service that is safe & reliable between the parking area and the
Welcome Home
center. Drivers need relief regularly. Riders should help with gas
and repair
expenses. The parking crew seeks vehicles for possible use as shuttles.
WELCOME HOME
Welcome Home is set up past the front gate, just before the main camping
areas to meet & greet people as they enter the site. It provides
a place for
people to rest from their journey, be informed about site specifics
conditions, and receive copies
of "Rap 107" and "701". A site map is posted. New arrivals may be offered
coffee, tea, water, and/or a hug.
KID VILLAGE
Kid Village is a place for children to find other children, parents
to meet
other parents, & all to share and grow in parenting. It facilitates
the needs
of kids, parents, and pregnant & nursing moms. It has a kitchen,
shade,
playthings, and people who are good with children. Kid Village should
be
located a distance from main meadow to minimize noise at night. Kitchen
help,
musicians, storytellers, and game leaders are always welcome. Child
awareness
is always of paramount concern. Keep track of your children. Kid Village
is
NOT simply a drop off zone. Know where your children are, when they
should
meet you or be
back to your camp. If you entrust their care to someone else, be sure
you
know that person to the point of having spent some time with them.
If you
leave your children at Kid Village, clearly inform others of your going,
expected return, and if possible, leave word where you can be found.
For
small children, pin a tag with their name, your name, and where you
are
camped on their shirt. If your child gets lost, don't wait too long
to act.
Inform Child Search at Info or Kid Village.
TRADE CIRCLE
Barter and the mutual exchange of crafts and the like are encouraged.
One
thing exchanged directly for another thing, or for a service performed.
Money
changing in the temple is unacceptable. No money should ever change
hands
here. Using money jeopardizes our right to use public land. Trading
un-used
commercially produced goods is in bad taste. The gathering is for sharing
hearts, not making profit & the funky energy that goes with it.
As a result,
consensus was reached in 1995 that Trade Circle should not be on the
main
trail, or in sight of the Main Meadow.
WORKSHOPS
Workshops can be given by anyone on any subject. Large meadows can
be
designated for workshops. A Workshop Board is at Info for posting times
and
places. Typical workshops include Plant Walks, Yoga, Music, Sister/Brother
circles, Massage, Nutrition & other healing techniques.
SWEAT LODGES
Sweat Lodges are sacred spaces for mature ceremonies which purify the
mind
and cleanse the body of toxins. They are built with care and respect
in a
traditional manner and those who lead the sweats are commonly schooled
in the
old ways. The space should be respected as a temple and not disturbed
by
vibrations or behavior that is less than sacred. Please don't come
if you
have an infectious disease. Come with an open heart & some firewood.
MUSIC
We make our own music here, and everyone is welcome to join. Acoustic
instruments only. Share your songs with us, even if you're not a "performer".
In a group of musicians, listen & blend instead of dominating,
especially in
a drum circle. Harmony is the point. Be considerate in the wee hours
of
sleeping folks.
TECHNOLOGY
We welcome non-polluting. low energy technology such as solar, wind-power,
etc. Excepting flashlights, lanterns & stoves, fuel-powered &
electrically
generated devices are not welcome! NO BOOM BOXES! Forcing one persons
taste
on many is not cool. Artificial sound carries a long way in the woods.
PETS
A Gathering is not a good place for a pet. Dogs speak an internal language
that humans can not predict. They fight other dogs, kill wildlife,
get into
food, and shit everywhere. Sudden changes in the environment spook
& stress
them to a point where they snap & bite. We know, of course "not
your dog".
Soooooo, if you must bring your pet, you must be responsible. Keep
them under
constant watch 24 hours a day, on a leash, out of kitchens, meal circles,
councils, and wildlife. Clean up & burry their droppings. Sound
like a real
drag? Be realistic, be kind. It IS reasonable to leash a stray dog
someplace
with shade & water. ARF camp is sometimes set up to address pet
issues.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Always ask permission before taking a picture of any other person.
This
includes groups as well as individuals. Most people say yes, but no
means NO.
Excessive picture taking can kill a natural or peaceful moment of bliss
&
make people tense.
NUDITY
Clothing is optional. We accept people and their bodies without judgement
or
shame. Many people like the feeling of freedom or like to be cool on
a hot
day. Be cautious of sunburn & poison ivy. It's a good idea to at
least wear
sandals. Nudity is natural. It is NOT an invitation for sex or a "feel".
RULE MAKING
We understand. Really we do. No one likes to be told what they can
or cant
do, especially hippies and anarchists.
Recognized Rainbow rules come from only one source, main council at
the
annual national gatherings. EVERYONE is welcome and encouraged to attend
these councils. The ONLY rules recognized are ones formally accepted
by
council consensus. This means that EVERYONE in the council circle agreed
that
a suggested rule should be a rule (no-one objected). Rainbow rules
are the
culmination of family consensus across the years. For those who do
not accept
this, please bear in mind, that if this process were not happening,
THEN
THERE WOULD BE NO RAINBOW GATHERING to argue the point in the first
place.
Respect for the whole gets respect from the whole. The idea of "me"
yielding
to the idea of "we". Trust in your
family to be wise. Conversely, rules in Rainbow are not final, should
be
humbly imparted with love (at least at first), and most importantly,
conflicts should always be addressed with love, and an attempt to preserve
rather than defeat.
Love is the answer.
LOVE & LONLINESS
Many in our Family have found deep & satisfying relationships with
other
Family members. Few of these sprang into being at their first Gatherings.
The
freely given affection, easy conversation, and sudden promise of openness
here cause many to start searching for their one and only, build up
big
expectations, and then be disappointed. Meet people by volunteering
and
working with them, by making music and theater with them, by joining
them in
workshops and spiritual events. See them in all their moods, and really
get
to know them. Be patient and give time for friendships to unfold and
grow by
themselves with-out expectations. The Spirit will show you your soul
mates,
if you let it. Many people will be put off by sudden propositioning,
and not
everyone is in the same state of wanting that you are. Remember, if
the other
person says no, but you do anyway, that is rape. We are all worthy
of equal
respect. We are opening up to the luminous love light of the One.
INTOXICANTS
What you use is your business. What you abuse is often everyones business.
It
has long been a tradition in our family to discourage the use of alcohol
at
gatherings. Alcohol energy can easily threaten. We respect a persons
right to
drink. We do not respect difficult drunks. The primary reason we gather
is
for peace. Conversely don't be a nuisance to drinkers (or Shanti Sena),
if
you are panhandled or insulted, turn to your friends or sober people
for
help. Some intoxicants can have
mind-expanding and otherwise sacred uses. However, we actively discourage
giving powerful psychedelics like LSD to people who don't know what
they're
taking, or don't have the experience and mental stability to handle
it.
TOWN
PLEASE respect the community we are closest to. Avoid unnecessary trips
to
town. Please respect local businesses, and people with different
sensibilities. Absolutely DO NOT panhandle, loiter, apply for any social
services, or otherwise act inappropriately. Do not tax the resources
of the
local area. BE KIND, even to folks with bad attitudes. Some folks respond
badly to change and what they don't understand. We are in their back
yard.
When you are in town you ARE an ambassador for the entire Rainbow Family.
THE SILENT CIRCLE FOR PRAYER AND HEALING - JULY 4TH, MORNING
We gather to focus on LOVE, nature, our better nature, healing division,
and
to honor and respect all positive contributions to the evolution of
earth and
all life. On July 4th, from daybreak till high noon, the camp
is hushed,
hopefully no talking at all. It is a wonderful exercise to communicate
without words. People gather in Main Circle to meditate for World Peace
and
the Healing of the Earth. This is a time of profound energy. Explore
your
deepest feelings so that your healing might will be complete. The silence
is
broken with a resonant OM after the Children's Parade enters the Circle,
after high noon. PLEASE respect the morning silence. There is
plenty of time
in life for noise.
REGIONAL GATHERINGS
In addition to the annual National Gathering, there are many Regional
Gatherings throughout the year. Find out about these from Info, All
Ways
Free, focalizers, Light Line numbers, and the Internet.
alt.gathering.rainbow www.welcomehome.org
Yahoo under Society and Culture:
Alternative
VISION COUNCIL
Vision Council shares the future dreams and visions of the Rainbow
Family.
Much of the focus is on determining the location for the next year's
national
Gathering. Council starts at noon on July 7th, and continues until
a
consensus is reached. This may take days. Be prepared to be patient,
very
patient.
CLEAN UP
Clean up begins before you leave your home. Think carefully about what
you
pack. Do you need it? Will you want to deal with packing it out. Clean
Up
continues when you arrive - if you don't disturb the environment to
begin
with, you don't have much to clean up later. If you pick up trash as
you go,
theres little mess at the end. BRING A STURDY BAG FOR YOUR TRASH &
RECYCLING.
Take your trash & recycling far from the gathering and surrounding
towns and
dispose of it properly. Trash & recycling stations should be used
as a LAST
RESORT. Have a heart and take a bag of trash from a trash station upon
leaving the gathering (it really helps). We attempt to leave NO traces
of the
gathering so that in a year, you'd never know we were there. EVERY
cigarette
butt, bottle cap & string is picked up to the best of our ability.
After the
last day of the Gathering, the camp is drawn inward from the
perimeters to
one central camp, thence to the front gate, parking area, and
down the road.
See Rap 701 for details.
FAMILY & COMMUNITY
Just like in any good family, brothers & sisters take turns washing
dishes,
taking out the trash, cooking, getting fiewood & water, all the
chores.
Orders need not be given. Love acts without having to be asked. Giving
love
feeds you love. Attempting to amass credit, dominate, indulge ego,
or run
personal agendas will leave one empty & flat, missing the point
& the big
picture. Blissing out is great, but if you want to take something
home with
you from the gathering that will last and really mean something, volunteer,
help out a kitchen, plug in. Unlike Babylon, here you can see, hear
& feel
the reasons for community service: Your brothers & sisters healthy
& getting
fed. If we all put in 2 hours a day, we'd be one happy camp.
******************************************************************************
*******************
SQUIRRELY POSSUMS
GUIDE TO
PRACTICAL CAMP GEAR
(OR WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO A GATHERING?)
Bring every good thing. If it aint not on this list, consider leaving
it
home.
If in doubt, leave it out. Cuz if you bring it in, you gotta bring
it out.
And well, dang!
You just might be surprised how little you really need.
ESSENTIALS
STUFF/CARRY BAG
BACKPACK
SUN HAT
BIODEGRADABLE SOAPS
CUP BOWL & SPOON
TENT
SANDALS
TOOTHBRUSH & PASTE
SMALL MAGLIGHT & BATTERIES
PILLOW
HAIR TIES
MOISTURIZER & LIP BALM
TOILET PAPER IN WATERPROOF BAG SLEEPING BAG
BIRTH CONTROL
SUN BLOCK & LOTION
PEN/MARKER & NOTEPAD
GROUND CUSHION TRAVEL CLOCK
IBUPROFEN & VITAMIN C
LIGHTER
BATH TOWEL
POCKET KNIFE BAND AIDS &
PEROXIDE
CANVAS FOOD SACK
MAPS/DIRECTIONS TAMPONS/PADS
PERSONAL DISH SCRUBBIE
GOOD IDEAS
ACOUSTIC INSTRUMENTS
WATER CONTAINER DUCT
TAPE
SHAVING STUFF
READING MATERIAL /JOURNAL SOLAR
SHOWER
ROPE/STRING
NAIL CLIPPERS
FRISBE, BALL, HACKIES, CARDS RAIN GEAR/UMBRELLA
BUNGEE CORDS HAIR
BRUSH
HAMMOCK
BOW SAW/HATCHET PLIERS
SUN BLINDFOLD
CAMERA, FILM & BATTERIES
CAMP SHOVEL
DOWN BOOTIES
PHONE ADDRESS BOOK
CANDLES, INCENSE & HOLDERS BUG REPELLANT
WORK GLOVES
PHONE CARD/STAMPS
This list assumes that you bring your beautiful shiny spirity self,
and
whatever clothes you might need.
Gatherings are often hot days & cold nights, so don't just bring
shorts &
T-shirts. Cooking gear is absent
from the list because these things are found in the kitchens. Once
you start
with cook gear, the size of your
pack will double. Yet, a small pot can be useful when kitchen gear
is all in
use. Many conveniences like camp
chairs have been omitted because they are bulky & heavy, and most
people just
don't need them. You may
want to consider Spiritual and specialty items like beads, crystals,
massage
oils, & mood altering substances.
Do you have medications or contact lenses. Do you need itinerary info
or
important phone numbers. Does your guitar have extra strings. Is there
a bag
to carry out trash. Uniquely designed paper can be useful for leaving
messages that you can tell your friends to look for. The subject of
food &
food contibutions is too large to
address here. It is wise however, to bring personal protein & fruit
just in
case your timing with kitchen meals
is bad. Excellent choices are mixed nuts, peanut butter & jelly,
granola,
apples, oranges, grapes, cherries,
dried fruit, high grain crackers, instant oatmeal, high grain muffins,
and if
you have room, a non-citrus juice. Emergency creamer & sugar for
you coffee
hounds. Do you have a favorite tea or uncommon spice. For these
few days, leave the city behind. Leave boom boxes, radios & cell
phones home.
Be prepared, be healthy!
******************************************************************************
******************
KITCHENS & CAMPS
An avergage gathering has roughly 20,000 Rainbows, thirty-something
full
kitchens, and dozens of tea/coffee kitchens. There are craft, exercise,
religious, activist, tech, and novely camps, and a slew of cozy just
good
folks camps. This list
was compiled from the posted site maps at the 1991 - 2000 national
gatherings. How many have you been to?
A-CAMP AIRHEAD CAFE AJNA
ALABAMA CAMP ALICE B TOKELESS TEST SITE
ALL MY RELATIONS ALOHA ALPHONSO'S
PANCAKES AMERICAN HORSE CAMP
AMERICAN GYPSY ANANDA
ANONYMOUS CAMP ARCADIAN ORDER ARE
WE GONE AREA 51
ARIZONA FULL HEART
ARTISTS & MODELS FOR PEACE AU NATURAL CAFE
AUNTIE EM'S AVALON
AZ CIRCUS FAMILY
B.A.R.T. BAH HA BAHAI CAMP
BAREFOOT NASTYS
BARF (BOSTON AREA RAINBOW FAMILY)
BARF (BRATTLEBORO AREA RAINBOW FAMILY) BC TRIBE
BEANSTEAM BEAR FISH
BEAR CREEK
BEAVER FEVER BHAKTI YOGA BI THE
WAY BIKRAM YOGA HATHA BLISS
BLUES PARTY PEACE CAMP
BLUZ ANGELZ BORD HEAD CAMP BRAID
STATION BREAD OF LIFE BREW-HA-HA
BRIDGE OUR-WAITING ONLY BUBBLE PALACE
BUDDHIST SHRINE BUFFALO CAMP
BUGS (BEAUTIFUL UNION OF GUYS & SISTERS) BUZZ
STOP
CAJUN SECT POETRY CAFE CAMP 138.5
CAMP CAKK CAMP CUDDLE PUDDLE CAMP
DAZED CAMP ELSEWHERE
CAMP FLORIDA CAMP HUMMUS
CAMP KITTEN CAMP MINDFULLY CAMP
SILVER CAMP SNOOPY CAMP SUMWEAR
CAMPA TAMPA
CANDLESTICK PARK CANNABIS CONFUSION CAFE
CAR NO VOIR CORNER
CARING EYES CAFE CARNIVORE CAFE
CD CAFE CHAI CHI CAFE CHAMPAIGN
CHANA TRIBE CHICO CAMP
CHIRO-CAMP CHRIST CAFE
CHRISTMAS CAMP CIRCLE OF LIFE COCKROACHES
BEANS COFFEE COFFEE
COLBY HEALING TOUCH
COLORADO KIND CAFE CONESTOGA CAMP
CONFUSION STATE FREEWAY
COOL BUS HILL CORNUCOPIA
COSMIC FLYING EYEBAL MEDICINAL TEA VORTEX COW BOY
COW PATTY CAFE
COYOTE CAMP COZY KAVA
CRUCIAL KITCHEN CUP-A-LOVE CYBER
CAMP DARSHAN TALK DINER
DEAF TRIBE DEEP SPACE TEMPLE
DELI MAMAS COURSE IN MIRACLES DEW DROP IN
DIVA POD DOG SPOT
DOGSTAR
DOUBLE DOSE CAMPFIRE DRAGONFLY
DRAGON KITCHEN DRUM WORKSHOP
DUN DUN VILLAGE
EAGLES NEST EAGLESTAR EARLY BIRD
EARTH CAMP EARTH WOMB
EKAHI ALOHA CAFE ELF
ELVIS KAMPED HERE EMPTY SPACE ETERNAL
SUNSHINE ETERNAL BOOK ASSEMBLY
EVERYBODYS KITCHEN EWOK VILLAGE
EXIST-DANCE FAERIE CAMP
FAT HOUSE HARVARD
FATTIE CAMP FEEL GOOD PLAYGROUND
FELICITY NAWLINS CAFE FIRE CAMP
FIRST ENTRANCE
FLAT SOFT CAMPING FLUTTER BYE FLYING
MESA LOCALS
FLYIN ZION UTAH CAMP FOOTBAGGERS FOR PEACE
FOREST CAFE 47-HOUR LIBRARY 4:20
CAFE FREE ADVICE
FREE ASSEMBLY FORUM FREE FAMILY
FUKOUWE
GAME ROOM GANJAWANNALAND GATEWAY
GET-A-WAY GHETTO KITCHEN
GILA MONSTERS GOOD SPACE
GORDHEAD CAMP GOTNAYGANJ AHH GRACELAND
TEA MANSION GRANDPAS
GRANOLA FUNK
GREENWICH VILLAGE GREEN VILLAGE
GREEN & PURPLE GREENPEACE
GREYHOUND TRIBE
GROOVE CAMP GUANO CAVE GUARA TEMPLE
GYPSY CAMP GYPSY LIBRARY
GYPSY SAGE HAGS R US
HAIGHT ASHBURY HAIGHT STREET CAMP
HALF MOON CAFE HANG GRIDE DIVERS
HAPPY HORSEY CAMP
HAPPY CAMP HEALING ARTS YOGA HEART
FIRE MEADOW HEARTLAND
HEMP INFO 6-UP HERBAL REMEDIES
HO CHI MANIA BABA HOBO KITCHEN
HOME GROWN GREEN HOUSE
HONEYCOMB HIDE-OUT
HOODS IN THE WOOD HOT & WET
HOUSE OF DAVID HUMMINGBIRD COWBOY ONE
I CAMP REMEMBER
I DUNNO CAFE I-CHING DREAM INTERPRETATION
IDA NO & EYE DON KARE
INDIGENOUS CAMP
INFINITE SUNRISE KITCHEN INSTANT SOUP
INTREPID LOUNGE IRIE CAMP
ITAL CAMP
ITS A BEAUTIFUL DAY JAGNASTY INDUSTRIAL WASTELAND
REFUGEES JAH LIONESS
EXPRESS JAH LOVE
JAH-VA COMMUNI-TEA PALACE JAH VILLAGE
JAMBA JAVA HUT JEDI CAMP
JERUSALEM BECKONS
JESSE'S AFTER HOURS CLUB JESUS CAMP
JESUS KITCHEN JESUS LOVES YOU
JUBILEE JUGGLERS GROVE
JUST SAY KNOW'S JUST US JUST MY
CUP OF TEA KAOS KATUAH
KAVA KITCHEN KAW VALLEY
KHUNDALINI YOGA KICKAPOO KITCHEN
KIND LOVING VIBRATIONS
KINDA SORTA KITCHEN
KINDRED SPIRIT KITCHEN KITTY LOVE
KNOT A SHIRT CUT KOSHER TOWN
KRISHNA KITCHEN
KULI MA'S KITCHEN LAST CAFE IN THE UNIVERSE
LAZY CAFE
LIBERTARIAN PARTY LIGHTNING SHOWA
LIQUID HARMONY LITTLE RASCALS HIDE-A-WAY
LITTLE TREE LIZARD LOUNGE
LLAMA'S FOUND-ATION
LOG CABIN LONE PINE HERD CAFE 4:20
LONG BEACH LOONIE LESBIANS
LOST VILLAGE LOVE & LIGHT CLINIC
LOVIN OVENS LOVIN TOUCH MADAM FROGS
DINKY TOWN TEA HOUSE MANGA MANGA
MATI'S HIPPY COMMUNE MAYA CAMP
MEDICINE WHEEL VILLAGE KITCHEN
MELLOW MEADOW
MELTING POT MERRY YE MAYA CAMP
MERRYLAND MEU (MIND EXPANSION U)
MIDWAY CAFE MILLIWAYS MINNESOTA CAMP
MINNI HANA MIRACLE CENTER
MIRTH FIRST MISSOURI LUV CAMP
MO LUV MODEL A MONKEY CAMP
MONTANA MUD MONTEREY MUD
MOON FLOWER DESERT SAGE
MOONDANCER STAGE MORNINGSTAR MOTHER
GOOSE THEATRE MUD KITCHEN
MUSICAL VEGI CAFE MUSTANG BOBS
NABI CAMP NACHO MOMMAS COFFEE HOUSE
NADA BINDU
NERD NERF (NORTH-EAST RAINBOW FAMILY)
NIC AT NIGHT NO NAME KITCHEN
NOMADIC DISCORDIANS
NOMADIC FESTIVAL NORMANALLY LIVIN LOUNGE
NORTH CLIFF LOUNGE
NORTHWEST TRIBE
NOT A KITCHEN NOW KITCHEN NUGS
& HUGS NYC (NOW YOU CAN)
OH BABY CAMP OHANA
OM CHAPATI OM KLAHOMA OM VALLEY
ONE LOVE FUNKS HACK VILLAGE UNITED
ONE MITTEN KITCHEN ONE POT ONEYELUV
OPEN SESAME OUR CAMP
OUR LADY OF ENORMOUS PROPORTIONS OUTLAW KITCHEN
PAGAN CAMP
PAISLEY TEAHOUSE
PANTAGRUELION TALKING TREE LOUNGE PANTHER VILLAGE
PAPA BEAR UTAH CAMP
PARADISE RISING
PASTA EXPLOSION PEACE O PIZZA PEACE
THRU PEACE BREAKFAST KITCHEN
PEACOCKS BUTTOCKS
PEBBLE HILL PHAT FREE PIRATE COVE
TEAHOUSE PLAID CAMP
PLAYA DEL SOL POETIC ROCK
POPCORN PALACE POW MIA PROCESS
CAMP PROCRAST-IN-NATION
PSYCHOACTIVE GOOSE FUNK BUMP VILLAGE PURE N HOLY
CAMP PURPLE BUTTERFLY
PURPLE CIRCLE
PURPLE GANG PURPLE TWILIGHT PYRAMID
SOUL THERAPY RAILROAD RENNEGADE
RAINBOW CRYSTAL KITCHEN RAINBOW MEDICINE WHEEL
RAINBOW ROOFTOP
RAINBOW SOLAR BUBBLE
RAINBOW SPIRAL PYRAMID RAINBOW TROLL CAMP
RAINDANCE TEA HOUSE
RAISIN RAVENS NEST
ROAD DOG ROAD KILL CAFE ROMPER
ROOM RX RETROGRADE
SACRED HERB CHURCH SAFE SWINGIN
SAGE HOLLOW SAGE MEADOW SANCTUARY
SANTA CRUZ CAMP SANTA FE FAMILY
SONG DOGS
SCROLL (S CALIF RAINBOWS OF LIVING LIGHT) SEEDS OF
PEACE
SERENITEA RIDGE SESSIONS
SHAFFI COFFEE GODS EE TURN A TEE SHAKA ZU ZU
SHAMA LAMA DING DONG
SHARE KITCHEN
SHOWERS HOT SHPL SHUNDANI NETWORK
SHY
SILENT VIGIL FOR WORLD PEACE SILVER GATE
SIMPLY WONDERFUL SISTERS MEADOW
SISTERS SPACE SITTING PEACE
SKY HIGH SHADY CAFE
SLC CAMP SLO CAMP SMOKE ALL NIGHT
SNOWFLAKE SOLAR OVENS
SOMEBODYS SOURCE CAMP
SPACE CAMP SPACESHIP GAIA SPAWNTEWEYOUS
EGGSPRESSYON
SPIRIT DRUMS LAB SPOT (SEATTLE PORTABLE OUTDOOR THEATRE)
SPROUT VILLAGE
SPROUT GARDEN STEALTH
STILLWATER STONEY CREEK STONEY
MEADOWS SUFI CAMP SUNDOG
SUNSHINE LIGHT
SWEET HOME ALAH BAM AH SWIM IN HOLY HOLE
T-RIDE TACO MIKES
TANTRA SUNSET CIRCLE
TEA & TABLA TEA TIME TEAHOUSE
AT THE END OF THE UNIVERSE
TEDDY BEARS PLACE
TEE PEE MEADOW TEXAS GROWING HEART
THANKYOU CAMP THC
THE DANCES OF UNIVERSAL PEACE
THE FAMILY THE FAR SIDE THE FLOWER
SHOP THE GARAGE
THE HOLY ONE MINI GOLF THE LIBRARY
THE MAN 420 CAMP THE OTHER RESTAURANT
THE REST AREA THE SUGAR SHACK
THREE SHEETS TO THE WIND TN-TENT TO PRAY
TOPPLED TALKIN TENTS
TRADE CIRCLE KITCHEN
TRON CAMP TUCSON CAMP TURKEY CAMP
TURKS HEAD CAFE TURTLE SOUP
TURTLE ISLAND
TWELVE TRIBES UNDER THE SUN LIVIN
UNITING SPIRITS UP IN SMOKE
UPSIDE DOWN PLEASURE PALACE
VEGAS LOUNGE VOODOO SOUP WAKE &
BAKE CAFE WARRIORS OF THE LIGHT
WE DIDNT DO IT
WELCOME HUG CENTER WHATEVER WHEREDAFUCARWE
WHITE HAWK
WHOLE IN ONENESS
WILD WOMEN IN PINECONE HEAVEN WILDBERRY SCARY SHITTLES
WIND SPIRIT CAMP
WOMB'INS WAY
WOMENS HEALTH INFO WONDERFUL KITCHEN OF OZ
WOODPECKERS NEST
WOODSTOCK WORKS IN PROGRESS WORLD
PEACE PILGRIMAGE WRESTLING RING
WYO-COLD CAFE XARA PRO FORMA YANG
YANG
YELLOW OWL SWEAT LODGE YER ROAST COFFEE 24 HOURS
YOGA HEALING ARTS CAMP
ZEN OF DOG CANINE 1ST AID ZION
ZIPOLITE EZ DRUMS ZU ZU LOVE
BUS VILLAGE CALM COOPERATIONS
FRONT GATE INFO KIDDIE VILLAGE
MAIN MEADOW MESSAGE CENTER
PEACE POLE SHANTI SENA SUPPLY
SWEAT LODGES TRADE CIRCLE
WELCOME HOME
******************************************************************************
******************
The resources which follow were volunteered at the Rainbow Gathering
that
took place in Montana in 2000 and published so we can continue to share
our
unity while away from gatherings. The Rainbow guide has been freely
circulated for universal good. For all our relations in all our colors.
A NOTE FROM THE GUIDE CREW
RAP 107, 701 & the MINI MANUAL are simply the cumulative pooled
voice of
experience. 28 years of gathering has taught us a few things, sometimes
the
hard way. So why re-invent the wheel at the expense of wasted
energy and maybe people getting hurt. These texts were compiled &
edited from
previous Rainbow Guides, a host of other Rainbow publications and focalizer
input. They are not absolute. Some folks will disagree on some of the
points,
but its the best we've got so far. They are works in progress.
Let love
settle the differences.
In all and everything Rainbow, there are no leaders, closed committees,
no
office, hierarchy, authority, or administration. There are only self
appointed volunteers. This guide is no exception. Anyone can be in,
and
anyone can work on the Rainbow Guide. Everyones voice is equal in Rainbow.
We
do things this way because it promotes love & growth, and nips
corruption in
the bud. We rely on people deferring to wisdom when they hear it. Rainbow
works because we mutually trust that most people generally know wisdom
when
they hear it. Rainbow proves that if you trust people to be cool, most
people
will be. Powerful recurring themes in Rainbow include Love, Respect,
Cooperation, Community, Preservation, Growth, Healing & Bliss.
If these
things resonate with your soul, then you are home. If not, we love
you
anyway. Welcome Home.
Rainbow means different things to different people, as it should in
a healthy
world. Something like Rainbow cannot be deconstructed. The growth &
healing,
the dialogs with the earth and the community. A lifetime of writing
could not
explain one persons experience, let alone a village of 20,000. One
thing is
certain, a week at a national gathering will change you in a good way.
A sure
way to lose sight of your true nature and whats truly important is
to be
disconnected from the natural rhythms of the earth. Concrete &
manicured
lawns do not have a pulse. Isolation from community has a similar detrimental
effect. The soul slowly strays into shallower waters. Reconnect with
mother
earth. Find out how your neighbors are doing. Feed your soul. The effect
is
profound.
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT LISTINGS - ESPECIALLY FOCALIZERS
Rainbow is a bunch of volunteers, just plain folks, with homes, many
with
families, making their way through life just like anyone else. These
people
are your brothers & sisters and would like to hear
from any respecting person. With this in mind, please call or write
before
visiting. Call at regular
hours. Include an s.a.s.e with mail if you want a response. Don't have
expectations or take anything
for granted. Love your family as you want to be loved.
"THINK FOR YOURSELF & QUESTION AUTHORITY" - TIM LEARY
"IF THE GOVERNMENT DOESNT HAVE VISION, ITS NOT THE
GOVERNMENTS FAULT, ITS THE POETS" - KEN KESEY
"T H E R E I S N O
T O P T O T H E F
O O D C H A I N
IT IS CIRCULAR. AN ONGOING PROCESS. AS ALL OF NATURE RUNS
IN CYCLES, WE TOO WILL ONE DAY BE FOOD" - GREG "RITCB"
Copyright 2001. All rights reserved, except when used non-commercially.
Opinions expressed are those of individuals, not the Rainbow
Family. Opinions expressed are also not of anyone with any level
of
authority regarding the Rainbow Family or Rainbow Gatherings. Unauthorized
reproduction or use is bad karma. Expressly prohibited
for use by law
enforcement personnel. The existence of the
volunteered listings and this directory in no way implies membership
or
formal organization of The Rainbow Family. The Guide
is
produced by the Guide crew for all the liberated & loving
people of the
world. A group effort, including most notably, all the
people
who contributed listings, artwork & photos. Give thanks to
the great spirit
who enables all this to come about. Love is the answer.
COVER ART CREATED BY KEN KESEY & GREG KLINE FOR THE 2001 RAINBOW
GUIDE. A
COLLABORATIVE LABOR OF LOVE.