After we left Ghana- the closest geographic area to 0 degrees latitude and 0 degrees longitude, we hit another major cultural moment- the crossing of the Equator. There is a ritual associated with the crossing of the Equator, and it is called Neptune Day. For those of us who had never crossed before, we were mere polliwogs, and the others who had already crossed before and been through the tradition are called shellbacks. Neptune Day was a no-class day, and we were awakened in the morning by the clanging of pots and pans, and then summoned to the 7th deck by King Neptune’s court. There, those who wished to participate in the Neptune Day ritual, were given instructions. I didn’t think I would go through it- I actually woke up pretty seasick that morning- but when I got to the 7th deck, I just couldn’t resist. So, as of Sept. 17, 2011, I am officially a Shellback, and I am going to keep the rituals to myself… there may or may not have been kissing of fish involved.
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By: Kathy Obear on October 23, 2011 at 7:53 pm
I feel such joy as I read all your posts!!! I can almost imagine being with you all! And deeply appreciate your authenticity and spiritual reflections….can’t wait to see you all and hear stories in person! I may be in OSU in Jan….love to you all!!!
By: Mamta on October 27, 2011 at 1:06 pm
Kathy! So wonderful to hear from you! Can’t wait to share in person. Amazing experience (as you know), for which words just don’t seem to do justice…