Fall rite of passage program with School of Lost Borders

As the aspen leaves turn golden, we will gather on the welcoming land we call Wild Mountain—beneath billions of stars and held by the rich community of beings who share this home.

Rooting into the fall season

Autumn invites us to slow down and harvest the fullness of our lives—to let go of what has grown too heavy, to release old patterns of self-reliance and striving. Together, we slow down and listen—to ourselves, to each other, and to the land. In this listening, we remember what we already know: that we belong here, and that walking with respect and care is our natural way.

You’re invited to share your grounded truth and what really matters, embody your knowing, and step into what’s next with clarity—carrying this forward into your life, your community, and the world. 

Ceremony and Belonging

How do we live authentically with ourselves and others? How do we listen deeply and move beyond trauma and separation toward collective healing?

At its heart, a rite of passage is about community. Each of us may embark on this journey to grow through life’s hardship and longing, and a deep part of the work unfolds as we remember our togetherness. In times of profound political and cultural change, the call to belong and serve community resonates more strongly than ever. We are guided to listen deeply to the natural rhythms and walk forward with care. As we remember the ancient path of initiatory ceremony we discover a new way to heal, connect and belong.

Living the Practice

This time together will be an immersion in the vision fast ceremony, bridging time in council and solo experience on the land, to explore your place in the world and honor your own unfolding story. In this practice of remembering, we learn how to be deeply present for ourselves and each other. To see and be seen is in this way is a timeless art—not often experienced in today’s world.

Program Outline

Preparation – the first Days together
You’ll prepare for your rite of passage through teachings that support both inner and outer readiness. We’ll explore severance, creating a safe ceremonial container, and ethical considerations like cultural appropriation. You'll learn about the four directions and life stages, clarify your intention, practice staying safe and warm, and be invited to create self-generated ceremonies to take onto the land.

Solo Experience – 4 Days & Nights
You’ll cross the threshold into what we call the liminal time—a period of solitude on the land. Near your solo spot, you’ll set up a stone pile to quietly check in with a buddy each day. You may choose to fast or bring a small amount of food. The intention you set with the group will guide your time. Meanwhile, the guide team will hold basecamp and be available if needed.

Integration and Incorporation– Final Days, and the year ahead
When you return from the land, you’ll share your story, which will be mirrored back by the guides. You’ll also practice deep witnessing as others share their experiences. We’ll close by exploring how to carry what you've received into your life and community. In the months that follow, we’ll gather online to support the ongoing integration of your journey.

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This program offers a meaningful journey of healing, guiding you to step forward in this next phase of life. We invite you to share this nurturing time together on this beautiful land.

Contact Guide: Bettina Straub bettina@lostborders.org

Logistics

We encourage you to arrive at 3:00 pm on the afternoon of Monday, September 29th for orientation and to get settled before the program begins the next day. The ceremony will end by mid-afternoon on Saturday, October 11th. Before making travel plans, please communicate with Pedro so you won’t miss any important time on the land or with the group.

Practical preparation

We will provide fresh drinking water, and a basic outdoor kitchen. You will keep perishable food indoors by the kitchen, so you can bring any food you like. Most days we will be together in council, so you will need a comfortable camp chair (we can provide one if flying in) and layers of clothing for a range of weather conditions. An equipment list will be sent to you once you register. Extra equipment is available, so please ask if you are in need of anything.

Program cost:

The School of Lost Borders has created a sliding scale for all its programs in an effort to keep our courses affordable to a wide range of people.

Scholarships are available.

Tuition: $1000 - $4500 sliding scale
Deposit: $300 (Non-refundable & non-transferrable unless seminar is cancelled)
Extra Fees: $120 Camping Fee

*This program is offered through the School of Lost Borders and will be held on the land we call Wild Mountain in Colorado. Please see schooloflostborders.org for more information.

Guides: Pedro McMillan & Bettina Straub

Registration or Questions: Email Bettina at bettina@lostborders.org or Pedro at pedro@wildmountainretreats.org