by Paul Koch, Co-Convener of Awaken 2024

My heart seriously aches to be in the all-too-rare fresh air, safe space, brave space with you at Awaken 2024, Illuman’s annual men’s gathering. Our theme, Roots & Horizons, grows more profound as I contemplate on my own origin story as the distant son of German immigrants during mid-1800s unrest in the various feudal states.  I think of my (hoped-for) grandchildren and the generational impact I might have on them.  As my stage hero Jean Valjean opines in his soliloquy, “Who am I?”

One of my greatest joys of Illuman has been connecting with men all over the world in person and virtually.  I feel like Spirit dropped a pearl into my hands a spiritual leader in New Zealand told me about Whanau, which has a much fuller meaning than the English word for family. Whanau is a part of Māori, which includes extended family, and Whakapapa, which include ancestors past and future and strong ties to the land as well.  Clearly we, and our families, are much more than we initially realize.  Illuman is my Maori.

Come with me and hear stories of Whakapapa; summon ancestors during a full afternoon of ritual during Día de los Muertos led by Illuman en Espanol; feel through daily ritual, council circle and active Soul Play, including active recreation and reflective art.  

Come to Awaken.  We will sing, dance, embrace, feel, and love.

Paul Koch

Co-Convener of Illuman of the Ozarks

Co-Convener of Awaken 2024

Initiated at Osprey Wilds in Sandstone, MN 2015