Glitter Sparkle – A Glimmering Memorial

In August of 2022 I taught a beginners chanting workshop at the Northern European Religions Festival. The workshop went well and I was able to teach and practice ten different chants with the participants. As the hour of singing came to an end I told my participants I was always looking for new chants to learn and eventually teach and share, I invited them to send new chants my way. I expected a few recommendation to research later or lyrics to arrive in my email in couple weeks. I had not anticipated one of my participants to share a personal and moving chant with me right then and there.

A Shining Memory to carry on.

Laci Samira was another teacher at the event. She was teaching bellydancing workshops as well as performing including beautiful fire dances. She told me she had a chant she wanted to share with me. It was dear to her heart and she wanted the opportunity to sing it again and hoped I would be able to share and spread the chant for others to enjoy.

Years ago she was part of a coven that started an interesting ritual tradition. The group employed the common practice of smoke cleansing before entering ritual space. They sprinkled in their own humorous twist by adding glitter to the cleansing before entering the hallowed area. So participants were cleansed with smoke and dusted with glitter. Her brother had loved this amusing tradition. He was inspired by the practice and wrote the lyrics of the chant “Glitter Sparkle” to go with it.

“…people would be smudged and anointed when entering the circle they would also be glittered. And we would chant it with drumming and dancing around the circle because everyone was all sparkly and reflective around the fire.” ~ Laci

Sadly Ed passed away several years ago. So to bring a little sparkle to life and to carry one his memory Laci taught me his chant. We sat for a few moments singing this chant under the dappled shade of tall trees. The lyrics and cadence are enchanting and I can’t help but smile each time I hear it. Here is his chant.

Glittering Ritual

• After smoke from an incense stick or herb bundle is waved over the participant a dusting of glitter was added.
  • A powder-puff with biodegradable body glitter is a great option.
  • Forehead and the hands or arms are ideal
    • Any exposed skin the participates are comfortable with would be fine.

Glitter Sparkle

Glitter Sparkle, Glitter Bright

Glitter Bright

Like tiny shards of living light,

Living light

As we dance and as we spin,

As we spin.

Reflect the light of love within,

Love within.

Ed Berry