I COMMIT to respecting the sacredness of the sacrament as a genuine connection with the Divine Source, as well as always honoring the ceremonial use in a reverent way. I UNDERSTAND that in the ceremonial retreat I will observe my singular interpretation of Divine Source and It is not required to have any specific spiritual commitment to partake in.
I COMMIT to being respectful and generous with the spiritual leaders of Somatree Unity, designated as Madrinha and Padrinho, through heartfelt actions and proper matters. I UNDERSTAND that the spiritual leaders of Somatree Unity dedicate time and effort to serve everyone in the ceremonial retreat with an open heart and proper knowledge.
I COMMIT to proceeding according to the specific Somatree Unity seven-day ceremonial time guidelines for safety standards, which includes preparation practices prior to participating in ceremonial retreat such as diet, practices to calm down the mind, avoid certain substance use, and abstain from sexual activity; as well as integration afterward. I UNDERSTAND that it is important to have attention during the seven day ceremonial time and observe sensations working through my spiritual, mental, and emotional field.
I COMMIT to acting in accordance with best practices inside of the ceremonial space such as:
> choosing to cultivate silence or appropriate and few words;
> stay with the group;
> opt for respectful and heartfelt actions;
> no physical contact between participants;
> avoid distraction and drawing attention away;
> wear a reasonable dress code;
> unplug from the cellphone;
> no weapons allowed.
I UNDERSTAND that the ceremonial guidelines are arranged for the group benefits, and I will be oriented and have my needs attended to according to the best of possibilities.
I COMMIT to attentively receiving instruction of the designated guardians in the ceremonial retreat according to the Somatree Unity ceremonial guidelines and respectfully respond to their orientation. I UNDERSTAND that the designated guardians are trained in accordance with Somatree Unity ceremonial guidelines to respectfully serve the participants and help to attend to their needs based on safe standards.
I COMMIT to respect the property, common areas and the Forest provided by Somatree Unity by staying exclusively in the designated areas for public access such as: Temple, Tipi, Terreiro outdoor ceremonial space, kitchen, camping area, parking lot. I UNDERSTAND some areas are private and some areas will be closed to participants.
I COMMIT to acting polite with all participants and staff of Somatree Unity by respecting the boundaries of others to absolutely avoid interfering with their individual process, as well as respecting all participants and staff regardless of race, religion, creed, political affiliation, sexual orientation, medical condition, and economic status. I UNDERSTAND that I have chosen to partake in a group ceremonial retreat with specific ceremonial guidelines.
I COMMIT to constantly exercise empathy on the sacred grounds of Somatree Unity by bringing compassion to my thoughts, words, and actions; as well as admiring the unique diversity of our community, achieving together a connection with Divine Source at our own individual pace and in our own unique way.
I COMMIT to constantly exercise courage on the sacred grounds of Somatree Unity by knowing that spiritual practice means absolutely no harm to all my brothers and sisters, as well as I cordially choose to be faithful, trustful, open, honest, genuine, and fair with my words and acts.
I COMMIT to constantly exercise generosity on the sacred grounds of Somatree Unity ground by offering genuine, positive affirmation, spontaneous acts of joy and gift precious moments of silence, as well as opening my heart for courtesy and patience in our communications and interactions to listen attentively to each moment and each person.
I COMMIT to reviewing the Code of Conduct before every ceremonial retreat and incorporate the principles according to the best of possibilities.
