......In all native american cultures there are two kinds of fire one is physical for warmth and the other is metaphysical. The metaphysical or "Sacred Fire" is a means to connect to our ancestors. It can be done alone or in an open forum. The result is better in an open forum or Sacred Circle. The community shares responsibility in all that is asked of the fire. Individuals share openly their desires, wishes, and frustrations with the community. In this circle there is no judgement, no predjudice,only understanding. It is used as a means of reflection, a way to ask for good fortune,good health or protection, to cure unresolved anguish from our past,even to get revenge. It is said that offerings of valuables or sacrafice of life can help insure that your wishes come true.I find that the typical well to do human knows nothing about sacrifice. This ceremony or act creates a positive result in any case. It creates communal since of cultural wellnes and spirituality through openness and understanding without fear of judgement from mythyical beings.Few peole can deny the existance of ancestoral spirit. Even if it only exist in your own spirit. So next time your staring at a fire and reflecting, longing, letting go,wishing for, don't keep those feelings to yourself. Share with others and they will share with you. You will soon be part of something as old as man. I promise you will be a stronger person when it's all said and done