Manatee and Clean Waters Ceremony
Hand out outline of ceremony, information about the manatee crisis and the effects of cruise ships on the Florida waters.
Manatees have been removed from the endangered species list during the last administration, and in the last year 20% of this gentle animal’s population has been lost due to starvation as a result of pollution and habitat loss. Only 7500 manatees remain in Florida. For an update on the situation, see https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/oct/24/manatees-florida-endangered-species-review and https://foe.org/blog/cruise-ship-effects-marine-life/
The following link explains more about the symbolism of the gentle manatee.
A conche outline is on the deck of the ship as we sail from port, laid over a blanket. We have created a sacred spiritual space. The elements of grass, water, sand, and salt will be available in bowl on an altar nearby, along with more information about the crisis. People are invited to take one each of the one they resonate with. The elements will each be in a bowl.
State our intention – restoring of a thriving manatee population and a pristine marine environment
Read the poem,
My heart is the ocean, full of colors, depths, and dreams.
You can easily dive into my waters,
Get lost in my arms,
And quench my thirst
of grace
and love.
My heart is the ocean.
Your ocean.
by Alexandra Vasiliu
Let’s take a moment of silence to reflect upon any wonderful memories you have about the sea and sea animals.
Form a circle. Play conche music. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ePT3VA-mSzQ&si=hYgCJd08m8GmmXsh
Call in the four directions. (see instructions)
Gaya renews herself as we become trustworthy stewards of the planet.
Take in three cleansing breaths inhaling compassion, love and trust, and exhale uncleanliness, overuse of the planet and environment and selfish unconsciousness.
We commit ourselves to the symbols of the manatee:
- Breathing
- Compassion
- Curiosity
- Generosity
- Peace
- Shapeshifting
- Spiritual Love
- Tranquility
- Trust
- Water
I am aware, I am connected and I am gentle.
Explain the four symbols
Sand – cleansing through passage of time
Grass symbolizes renewal, the healing of the gentle manatee
Salt is purification and the long-lasting friendship with all god’s creatures
Water symbolizes life. We one with life, and with all beings of our beautiful planet.
Release of the elements
Repeat affirmation I am aware; I am connected and I am gentle
End with Gratitude prayer