The circle represents a paradigm which the Iroquois and more generally the First Nation People espouse. This world-view of traditional beliefs allows each individual, and the community as a whole, to stay connected to the red path, the path of walking in balance with their Earth Mother. Consequently all ceremony and ritual serves the purpose of seeking balance. The circle ceremonies play a central role in seeking this balance in that they help the individual and community bridge between the realm of the conscious and unconscious mind, or the earth and spirit realm, while on the journey through life. The following affirmations provide a portal to enter and exit the space we create whenever we connect to the energies of the heavens and the earth through the symbol of the circle.