First Year Back to Burning Man in 14 Yrs . . . National Disaster or Treasure?

RETURN TO THE PLAYA . . . AFTER 14 YEARS

In the scorching heart of Black Rock City in the Nevada desert, where dust and dreams collide, I found myself standing beneath the glaring sun, gazing at the familiar, surreal landscape of Burning Man. It had been 14 long years since my last venture to this epic festival, and a staggering 25 years since my very first attendance. You could say I’m an OG Burner, well-versed in the ethos of radical self-reliance, community, and the gifting economy. But my return wasn’t driven by nostalgia or a mere desire for revelry. No, it was a calling-a deeply aligned mission guided by Source.

THE JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY

In the 14 years away from the playa, I embarked on sacred pilgrimages internationally, spoke internationally, built a thriving 6-figure business, was initiated into serving sacred plant medicine and would serve over a thousand souls, and underwent profound personal transformations. I moved four times, launched multiple side businesses, and founded the non-profit organization, Living Wisdom.

Each step of this journey prepared me for what was to come . . .

THE STARS ALIGN: I RETURN TO SERVE

This year, the cosmic dance of destiny took hold, and Source whispered, “It’s time.” And so, I returned to Burning Man, not as a mere participant (there are no observers at the ‘Man) but as a guardian of serenity, stationed at the Tea Tyger Tea Lounge-a sanctuary amidst the chaos (HUGE THANKS TO OSHAN and the lead crew). Here, we shared teas from traditions around the world, plus our unique Go Ask Alice Oracle & Tea Party offering. Musicians serenaded us with world music, and guests found solace and tranquility amid the metaphorical and literal storms that brought flooding and chaos to the playa.

EMBRACING CHALLENGES WITH GRACE

As record-breaking rains descended and ankle-deep mud became the norm, I didn’t see disaster; I saw an opportunity. Amid the chaos, my heart was filled with peace, and I felt even more affirmed in my calling to be of service. Warm smiles, comforting tea, and a dry haven became the highlights of our sanctuary. Many proclaimed it the best thing on the playa. We provided refuge to those rained out of their camps, showcasing the enduring spirit of community and kindness.

During my time away from the Tea Tyger Lounge, I still offered a presence of peace, love, and calm along with my partner, Dr. Matthew, and those we found ourselves circling with. We brought light amidst the darkness, comfort amidst the turmoil. There was no doubt why I had gotten the strong push to return this year.

REKINDLING THE SPIRIT OF BURNING MAN

I couldn’t help but reminisce about the early days when comfort was scarce, and survival depended on the kindness of strangers. At Living Wisdom, we embrace the concept of “sur-thriving”-not merely surviving but thriving through service, weaving the prayers, talents, and even shadow of community to create a strong basket that holds us all tight.

THE TRUE MAGIC OF SERVICE

In a world that often sensationalizes misery and strife, Burning Man showed me the real magic: camaraderie, generosity of spirit, open hearts, and the true essence of community. It’s a reminder that focusing on service, rather than personal gratification, brings profound fulfillment. When your soul resonates with service, paradise can be found anywhere, whether in the heart of the desert and the rain-soaked, muddy plains, or on the prosperous land we reside in: Napa Valley, California. Burning Man, once again, reignited the flame of purpose within my heart, and I left with a renewed commitment to my calling, forever a Burner at heart, forever in service by calling.