UNIVERSAL PATHWAYS

A SANCTUARY WITHIN REACH

EDITED BY K. A. LAITY

UNIVERSAL PATHWAYS
A peaceful sanctuary thats within easy reach of your busy life in the Capital Region

Steve and Mary Browne

The labyrinth features the trees of the Celtic zodiac and offers a place for walking meditation

ABOUT THE DREAM

The history of Universal Pathways and the history of our home farms are an on-going weaving, but for this writing I will attempt to separate the two. In the early 1980s I took a course in Reiki. It would change the focus of my life forever. My start in the practice was slow due to many factors -- raising children, sheep, vegetables and all of day-to-day living. My practice grew slowly and as it grew I realized there would come a time when I would no longer be able to practice in our home. So I looked at converting the carriage barn. I was advised by an architect that the carriage barn was not suitable for so many reasons and it would cost a fortune to remedy all the deciencies. It was six months later that my next-door neighbor came to tell me she was going to sell her house. At that moment, I felt the house was much too large for my vision at that time, but Steve repeatedly told me the house was perfect and I could begin to widen my vision. Universal Pathways is predicated on vision. The vision has always been to assist people of all ages in creating their own vision through health, nature, creative investigation and open opportunity to experience all of the above.

Within the rst two years we put in the labyrinth, planted the Celtic zodiac, developed a peace garden and a meditation garden. The library continues to expand. Universal Pathways is now viewed as home to many groups of people. It has become a peaceful reminder for those whose daily lives can push aside the real reason for accepting the privilege of life on this earth. We laugh, we play, we retreat, we learn, we cry, we are real. Who are we? All who come and nd something of value. May it be you. Welcome --

Mary Browne

TESTIMONIALS

The rst time I visited Universal Pathways and met Mary Browne was for the purpose of nding a location to host a spiritual retreat for an organization in which I am a member. My friend, Dee, and I had arranged to meet with Mary and assess the property to see if it would accommodate our organizations needs. On the drive to Universal Pathways we naively told each other that we could accomplish this meeting in an hour, maybe two tops! We were hoping to nd a location where our members could gather, away from the business and busyness of mundane life, with plenty of space for inner and outer exploration of their connections with spirit. We could not anticipate at that time that we would nd all of this and so much more. We arrived in the early afternoon, surprised that the trip to Berne went much more quickly than we had anticipated. Mary, herself, is such a wonderful mixture of qualities it is impossible to capture her character in a writing such as this. At best I can offer you a few glimpses of her, knowing it will fail to do her justice. We were captured almost instantly upon meeting her by her warmth and generous hospitality. She welcomed us into the little house where she runs her business. Instantly we knew we had entered a wonderland where farmhouse meets library, where spiritual sanctuary meets art gallery. After a brief conversation of introductions she invited us to explore the house with words which cap-

The white birch: where memories and memorial join

ture her spirit so well. Go play! she said to us, letting us know shed be waiting for us in the central class room when we were ready to return. My senses were tingling as we explored the many rooms of the house, each reecting a blending of the mundane and sacred. The dining room leads to a sitting room which brings you to a hidden stairway taking you to private spaces for Reiki and other healing work. A mural in the stairway reects the artists view of the rolling hills and countryside and the Browne family farm. Another stairway leads to the upper meditation cave room which boasts another mural which astounds your senses. You know you just walked up a ight of stairs but conversely nd yourself transported deep within the earth. Downstairs again we found another reading retreat and nearby a devotional room where all concepts of deity are welcome. My child self was fully enthralled in the beautiful artwork, the countless book cases lled with sacred literature, the numerous eclectic sacred symbols throughout representing so many lands and traditions all coming together in one tastefully crafted symphony. Simultaneously my adult mind couldnt help but wonder at how this woman whom we had only known for ve minutes was so trusting to let us freely explore and experience her treasures unescorted. I would come to know that this is an essential aspect of Marys character; the fundamental belief that Universal Pathways, the little house, the land, is something that exists to be shared by all who would come with respect and appreciation. Ive heard Mary say, I dont own the land, I just get to pay the taxes. I know she means this from the heart, that the land is not something that can be owned. Further, she believes that the land responds to those who gather there and that it benets from the people and their energy as much as the people benet from the land.

When we returned Mary, with a gleam in her eye and a youthful giggle of glee, asked if wed had fun. Im sure our wide eyed expressions of awe gave her more information about our experience than any words we could muster as we struggled to express our amazement and excitement. I think I asked her if I could move in at that moment. However, our tour was only just begun. Mary led us out of the little house; her feet free of the burden of shoes and dressed only in the beautiful work of a henna artist as we walked across the soft grass. I later learned that what I thought was henna was in fact permanent tattoo. Mary likes to walk the land barefoot, feeling nurtured and energized by the land as she walks. We walked past the beautiful peace garden and approached the full sized labyrinth, the pathways created with interplay of gravel and fragrant thyme. The perimeter of the labyrinth is graced with the thirteen sacred trees of the ancient Celts inter spaced with small stone benches for sitting in contemplation. Everywhere we looked we saw beautiful perennial owers decorating the sacred gardens and accenting the buildings. In back of the little house off the deck the outdoor sacred spaces continued to expand outward. A healing garden encased by boxwood and a chicken house converted into a little private indoor meditation space told us that the blending of mundane and sacred was very much a way of life here. With each place we visited Mary shared with us stories of her lifes work building this amazing sanctuary with her husband, Steve, and her children. Already Dee and I knew we had found the place we wanted to hold our retreat and we had only begun to experience the magic of Universal Pathways. Our tour of the grounds continued over the lawn, past the barns with the chickens watching us curiously. We walked past the
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main house and several more gardens of both vegetables and owers. There we found the dragon ies and frogs happily enjoying the beauties of the largest, cleanest pond Ive ever seen. Again, the area was graced with owers, trees, and beauty everywhere you looked. We followed a pathway beneath a ower laden trellis and entered a borderland between cultivated space and woodlands. The perennials and annuals blended so smoothly into the woods as we approached the footbridge that took us across the bubbling stream into the grove that it gave the impression it must have always been this way. We knew, however, that we were in the presence of a great artist with an eye for beauty. Mary told us the story of the day that she told Steve that she needed him to build that amazing altar in the far end of the grove and that she had the altar stone all picked out. When you meet her yourself make sure to ask her about that one. Its a great story! And what an altar he built! I wondered at the feat of physical and mental strength it must have taken to move those giants now partly covered by years of moss, ivy, and a circumference of owers. A tting focal point which mirrored the larger circle of owers and trees which dened the border of the grove. Later, when we met Marys husband, Steve, it was apparent that he was the perfect man for the job. He was himself a giant of a man who under different circumstances might have struck the fear of the gods in me from his size alone. He, like Mary, was also an artist committed to the tireless work of manifesting their combined vision. Our journey continued along the stream through the woods until we came to a natural feature of the landscape that echoed with mystery and sanctity. The mystical source of the stream on the property was a small cave in an enormous rock wall. At the mouth of the cave the crystal clear waters of stream owed over a bed of solid rock which formed a hollow large enough to hold an adult person, a

natural mikvah. The air in the vicinity was cooled naturally by the waters and the breath of the cave. After a short time we returned to the grove and left behind the water spirits as we followed a path that wound its way up the wooded hillside. After a few minutes the path opened into a large clearing which held a re pit in the center. The transition at the top of the hill from the darker cooler cover of the trees into the bright, warm, openness of the elds with the sun shining in the clear sky above was magical. It was like walking into another world and felt to be a very appropriate place to honor the spirits of sky and re. Of the many trees in the perimeter of that space one stands out as the queen of the hill. In the east, a little removed from the other trees, stands one of the largest white Birch trees Ive ever seen. She is truly amazing. Mary explained that this was where she holds open celebrations for the eight seasonal holidays and that wed be welcome to use it for our retreat as well. This was just a taste of the wonders of the landscape. As we walked back down the path to the main house Mary explained to us that the farm had hundreds of acres and that the retreat attendees would be welcome to walk and explore as spirit took them. We sat on the terrace at the main house and enjoyed more conversation and refreshments. I believe that is where we met Steve for the rst time and had the rst of many conversations. As the sun started to move lower in the sky Dee and I began to think for the rst time about time. How late was it? For the rst of many times we experienced the timelessness of Universal Pathways and Mary laughed as she told us that tends to happen there. What we thought would be accomplished in a quick hour or two had expanded well beyond that in both time and intention! We really didnt want to leave but realized how wonderful it was that we would be able to come back! As we later relayed our experiences to our friends in our organization
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Cattails in the autumn

our enthusiasm was hard to control. In time the members came to know each in their own way the special magic that is woven at Universal Pathways. In the years since our rst meeting of Mary and Steve Browne I have been lucky to attend many events and gatherings at Universal Pathways. I have been very blessed to nd a community of people who dont all think alike. There are so many wonderful spiritual traditions and perspec-

tives represented in that community and the thing that makes it truly special is the loving acceptance and welcoming spirit everyone brings and the true appreciation for the gifts and perspective offered by each person. I have also been blessed to nd not just a location for retreats, though many since have taken place there, but a vibrant spiritual community. This is a place in the world that is truly, by every denition of the word, home. I found people who are
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friends but not only friends. We are ultimately a family in its truest sense. Here people embrace and value hard work and honest efforts but do so with respect, a light heart and always a spirit of play. When lifes challenges come to visit as they do for all on this planet we stand rmly together and support each other offering what we can. This is a place where the land and the various inhabitants of the land are truly respected and revered as conscious members of the community. Ive come to know and love the trees of the grove, the labyrinth, and of course the White Lady of the hill. The sense of peace and grounding one can experience on this land is nothing short of therapeutic. Ive been fortunate to be reminded why its important to walk the land with no shoes! Time still slips when I visit there. That has never changed. Those left behind in the mundane world know better than to expect me home on time. It never happens. Usually, however, when it is time to nally leave, though its always with a little sadness I remind myself how wonderful it is that soon Ill be coming back!

Allan P., Albany, NY

The bridge over the creek

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Do you remember when you were small and you had a place that was special to you? It may have been a room or a tree or a fort. A spot in the natural world, a man made structure, or even a space tucked away in the crevices of your imagination. It may have been a secret spot that you never told anyone about, or it may have been a spot you shared with people important to you or the world as a whole. But no matter where it was, whether it was big or small, tangible or imagined it held a comfort that felt unique only to it. Maybe it was a spot to escape for a while, or maybe a spot to sit and think, or feel, or just be. Maybe you went there to scream and yell and cry

when you were upset and just wanted to be alone or maybe you went there to laugh and celebrate and smile just for the sake of doing so. Maybe being in your space allowed you the security and quiet to problem solve or to completely lose yourself in your imagination. No matter where your space was or what you did there it was special to you. It was a space that held magic. Coming to Universal Pathways is like revisiting that space that was so special to you as a child. It might look different, but when you close your eyes you may sense that it feels the same. The comfort, safety and magic are there and the people who gather at Universal

The waters flowing from the depths of the cave

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Pathways share an understanding and respect for one another and for their surroundings that is uncommon, and much needed, in the world today. It is a wonderful experience to have had a special space as a child, but its even more wonderful to realize you can have it as an adult as well. Universal Pathways has been that space for me and I am eternally grateful that I have been able to spend time there and be a part of the wonderful community that has been created.

Amy

Curious donkey says hello

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What Universal Pathways has meant to me for the past 15 years or so is a spiritual home.This may sound trite but I have been looking for such a place since I was 6 or 7. I was born into the Lutheran Community and raised a Catholic, but at 7 I was attending Seventh Day Advent Sabbath School, later attending a Mennonite Summer School, and I tried various places in between, from Native American to Wiccan -- all had something for me to clothe myself in, but did not t my soul. It sounds academic and for a while I tried to wear that hat too, from History to Archaeology and Art History. But for me that way too was {as in the spiritual quest} some of it t but seemed to claustrophobic. What Mary Browne and Universal Pathways gave to me was a safe place or refuge to explore the compass and scope of my divergent beliefs. At 19, I once explained to a professor I dened myself as a Celtic Deist -it still holds true and Pathways gives me the place and the circle of friends who accept me as I am with no set boundaries or doctrines to dene me. It is a place and a space of Grace and True Beauty. Another friend at my Ordination at Universal Pathways said "this is where you belong..." she was right.

K. Maeve Noonan of Ballston Spa

Serenity within reach

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Dredged up some old e-mails in my attempt to gure out how long I've known about Universal Pathways. Apparently it's been nearly 10 years since I rst drove up that driveway. I felt immediately welcomed, and by the time I had nished my tour of the Little House, I was quite enchanted. The place has its own Presence -- and is lled, of course, with many other Presences -- yet unlike some other centers of spirituality that I've visited, it's not off-putting or aloof. There is space for all, and of course Mary and her family at the heart of it. Ruth Olmsted, Vischer Ferry NY

When we meet in a circle and speak from the heart, I feel elevated to a new plane of humanity. Our mutual sharing, brings me energy of understanding. All the mystery falls away and I am within the light of joy and within the hearts of all who share. No journey starts without the rst step, and to take that rst step with the love and support of our spiritual friends, brings me the strength I need to carry my burdens forward. We are blessed with each other, and we bring our small light of love, to mingle with each others light, to create a great bonre, that not only lights up the past but shows the way into the future. We are the mystery. We are the path. We are the future. Our hearts lead the way. Come walk with us. Larry Syzdek, Vischer Ferry, NY

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How does one attempt to describe a place and the people that I have met there who have been so transformational in my life? It started simply with a weekly meditation class at the cave room in the little house, where I was introduced to Mary and Steve Browne. My experiences at Universal Pathways continued to broaden, as I allowed myself to open to all that it has to offer. Those offerings are more than simply the sum of its parts, and can not just be dened by listing what classes are held there, or what Celtic events are celebrated, or by the monthly moon walks. For me, it has become much more than a place to take classes - it is the land, the people, the water, nature itself - the connection to something bigger than myself, and the openness and respect that there is more than one way or path to that realization. The title is quite illuminating Universal Pathways! Words are often not adequate vehicles to express inner spiritual experiences, and a sanctuary of this magnitude must be experienced and felt. Walking the thyme lined labyrinth in bare feet with a gigantic full moon overhead must experienced, and not just read about. Wandering the over 400 acres in snowshoes, or during a rainstorm, or standing in a circle of friends (some brand new and others known to you for years) with a large re in the middle and

sharing, much like has been done for thousands of years, or ducking into a pool of water, lovingly referred to as a mikva, or in my somewhat twisted expression, as a spiritual douche, that has just come from an underground cave, your body jettisoning upward as your lungs burst with a primal scream that drains the negativity and invites the love and understanding that such a place can nurture, are all incredibly rare and unique experiences that I have been truly blessed to be part of. I have also been blessed to travel throughout the United States, and visit a few other countries, and there are only a few places that have such a visceral and primitive connection for me, and this is the only one that is a short car ride away. Yes, part of this is the land, but all of that natural beauty has been enhanced by the vision that Mary has brought to the table the numerous gardens, the labyrinth, the re circle, the pond, the classes, the grove, all add to the magic and majesty that is Universal Pathways. Thank you Mary, Love, Kurt

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Dees photo of the rabbit in Barts garden

My rst encounter with Universal Pathways and Mary Browne was several years ago now. My friend Allan and I were looking for a place to have a spiritual retreat for the Hudson Valley Pagan Network. Another friend had been at UP for Morris dancing on Beltane and recommended we look into using space there, so we made an appointment to go and check it out. Mary met us at the door of the little house. My rst impression of Mary was that she seemed so centered

and to be an embodiment of peace. During our visit we toured the little house and the major features of the grounds, including the labyrinth, the re circle, the grove and the pond. As we walked and talked, the white dog circled around the periphery and Rufus led the way, frequently running back to us as if to tell us we were being too pokey and slow. What Rufus didnt understand was that there was so much for human brains to take in and process!
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We went out, thinking that wed be there for maybe an hour several hours later we could hardly believe how long wed been talking. When we expressed our surprise, Mary just looked at us knowingly and said, Thats what happens here. Time isnt the same here. We made arrangements with Mary for rental of space for a retreat, the rst of MANY we would hold there over many years. And, we came to know how true it was that time is something else entirely at UP. As the years passed, several women from HVPN began taking Marys Goddess Class. I had aspirations of taking it, too, but my nancial resources precluded me from entering the class until a little

over a year ago. My class is made up of myself and my very good friend, Sheree. Every month I look forward to spending time in the company of Mary and Sheree, as we read and explore books, and talk about the work of the Goddess and its relevance in the world today. My gratitude to Mary is boundless, as her wisdom and grace have guided me through some very difcult spots in my life. Mary is a healer, a teacher, a mentor, a mystic and a friend. She is an example of actualized womanhood and a Mother Goddess here on Earth. Dee Coyle Tocci

The pond catches the afternoon light as well as its own reflection

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My name is Jennifer Simon and I am a student in the Womens Mystery School at Universal Pathways. Mary Browne is my teacher. For me, the experience has been life changing. Mary Browne is a teacher who challenges you to face your fears and grow--spiritually, emotionally and psychically. The material we cover is fascinating and I feel well-fed on books I would never have imagined that I would buy, let alone enjoy. I do not leave class each month without the feeling that Ive done real, tangible work and my spirit is sustained by Mary Browne and Universal Pathways. In addition to class, I have spent time at retreats at Universal Pathways and this time is precious to me. The land is an enchanted place and I am always--yet never--surprised at the depth of my spiri-

tual experiences when walking the land. Among my favorite places at Universal Pathways are the Grove, the re pit, the cave and the mikvah. I love to be at the cave when my friend, Kate, is drumming! I have crawled naked into the cave to experience the womb. Inside, I was moved to tears in remembrance of my mother. I crept out of the cave and plunged into the mikvah and emerged with a profound sense of rebirth. I have yet to nd this anywhere else. This is what Universal Pathways has to offer. I hope you will explore it for yourself! Jennifer Simon

In the grove you will find the altar overgrown with moss and vines, as if it had always been there
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I was in my rst year in Knight School, about my fth month, when I experienced something that will stay with me a long time. I had nished a ton of reading assignments (something like 11 books in the rst month alone), as well as a number of deep talks with Mary and the guys, when I felt the strongest, yet gentlest of 'tugs'. As Mary was releasing us on what I seem to remember as a sort of walkabout meditation (with some assignment which I can't remember), I knew I needed to cross the road, to cross the eld across the road from the little house, to...something. Something that was not a book, not a talk, not an idea. So I went. I ended up on a rock, looking at a very large tree. It may sound daft, crazy, self-involved New Age navel-gazing, but then again, you weren't there, and you weren't me, but the tree and I and the rock had what I can only call a talk. It was more like I was eavesdropping on a deep part of me talking to my two companions, catching every second or third word. Time passed, I received no commandments, although there was a request for me to turn my cellphone on and to hold it close for examination. I received a sense of awareness of the awareness of leaf and int, of stone and oak, that opened me to ... something. I told Mary, who nodded and said that this tree was a grandfather tree, a locus of

nature-consciousness of the surrounding woods. I visit them occasionally in body, often in spirit, and although nothing has changed dramatically, everything has changed deeply. I take my son to Mary's when I can, to the nearby park when i can't, and soon I will be putting in mini-trails in my backyard, where there will be little pockets of mini-wildness for my wild child. Yes, it's for me too - sometime in midsummer, late at night, beneath Orion's Belt, laying on my back, I will simply be. Lou, Flatlander The sense of community I nd at Universal Pathways is refreshing and unique. I have met so many kind, wonderful people who share in my desire to continually grow and explore. It is the place I go to connect deeply with Nature in order to experience the wonderful healing powers of the Earth. Walking barefoot surrounded by acres of natural beauty feels like a hug from Mother Nature herself! I always depart feeling somehow changed or renewed. When I am not there, reecting on time spent at Universal Pathways and the farm forties my soul. Bean

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Rufus said farewell this year, but his spirit remains an indelible part of our memories and the land

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When rst coming upon Universal Pathways one cant help but admire the rolling hills of green, the colorful owers and the charming house. It is a peaceful place where thoughts are easily collected and the tension of the world drifts away harmlessly in the breeze. However, for me it became a completely different experience once I met the stewards of this wonderful place, Mary and Steve Browne. Their warmth and generosity enhanced the beauty around me and made it familiar, magical and embracing. The spirit of community is strong here, where people meet as strangers and leave as good friends. One is made to feel welcome here, an experience not to be missed in any lifetime. I have experienced many different things here. I have attended re circles, holiday gatherings, Mystery School, clergical ordinations and even a couple of weddings. I can always tell those who are new to Universal Pathways; it is the look of delight and wonder in their faces that is the tell-tale sign.

The trellis guides visitors onto the path, over the river and up the hill

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What will you nd at Universal Pathways? Whatever it is you need, even if you are not sure what that exactly is. Mary and Steve Browne have created a place that is sorely needed in these modern times, where time is exible and there is more than meets the eye. It can even be said that this is a sacred, mystical place. It can cure what ails you if you still yourself. And listen. Maryann Fairman, Schenectady, NY

Universal Pathways is a place where I can be myself - my pure self. I can shed all the external aspects and roles of my day-today life, e.g., my roles as a professional, mother, volunteer, committee-member, and all other demands, and focus on the core of my being. Mary Browne embraces us as individuals and magically makes each person feel special and loved. The place that is Universal Pathways, the pond, the forest, the open space, the elds, the paths, the wildlife, transports me to a spiritual place of being. It brings everything that's important into focus, and brings me to a time that is timeless. Speaking of time, it passes differently there. It's like there is no time, you just are. You don't need to be aware of time, only yourself, your inner self, and what is important to you and who you are It is also a place to

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share that experience with others who are different, but likeminded. Those who nd themselves at Universal Pathways may be very diverse in our day-to-day lives, but we all share compassion, respect, kindness, and a willingness to share ourselves. There's no room or place for negativity, only the positive. Mary Browne brings out the best in everyone and helps you to believe that you are special, even if you don't believe it yourself at rst. She's the match that ignites the ame of hope, love, mutual respect, and introspection. She also empowers us to make a difference, take an active role in changing the world for the better. It's not about relinquishing control, it's about making a difference in all creatures' (people included) lives and the world. She is the hub of the wheel that turns, with all of us representing different spokes. It doesn't matter so much as to where the wheel takes us, it's that it is turning, with the cycle of the year, the turn of the seasons, and the development of ourselves and being truest to ourselves and to each other. Sheree Hipwell

Everything grows, fades and passes away to be reborn again

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To come to Universal Pathways is to nd sanctuary; Steve and Mary Browne and their family (both born and acquired) and friends have established a space where it is possible to simply be. An hour or a day or longer spent there can be carried with you when you return to normal life, like a lucky charm in your pocket. When I head out to Marys I say, Im off to Brigadoon! Theres something magical about the place and indeed, sometimes the mist has closed behind me and I feel that I have stepped into another world. I unplug from my 24/7 life without a backward glance. I know it will be waiting for me when I return. From my rst visit I connected with the place, but even more so with the extraordinary people. Steve, the big bear who said much without speaking a word, who was always ready to make the impossible manifest, left this world last year -- yet he is here everywhere you turn. So often Universal Pathways is full of people and always there is joy in their faces and voices, even when tears ow. There is safety here, nurturing and support. It brings us all back for seasonal celebrations, for classes, for retreat from the busyness of the other world.

Any time of year the 550 acres of forest and farmland prove a joy to wander

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In Mary I feel I have a sister to whom I can speak without fear of judgement or distress. She has opened her home to me so many times, listened to my wild dreams and made me breakfast from her own chickenss eggs. We have drunk wine and shared the truths in our hearts, laughed and cried. Wherever I travel in the world, I know that I have a home in Universal Pathways and a door that is always open to me. All brightest blessings on those who cross the threshold. May you share the gift that is Universal Pathways. Kate Laity, Hudson NY & Dundee, Scotland

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All works remain the copyright of the individual creators; photos except for those of Mary and Steve and those otherwise attributed are K. A. Laity

Version 1.2 April 2013

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