We met Friday night in Waysmeet House, having driven to Pendle Hill in a rainstorm and bumper-to-bumper traffic. One of the writers had called to say a family emergency meant she would have to cancel; another woman was unable to break away and come to Pendle Hill until Saturday morning.
But once inside my worry disappeared. Seven of us gathered in a circle, lit the candle in a room with fireplace, paintings and books and began our weekend. We read excerpts from memoirs we loved and had touched us. We set our intentions for the weekend, centered on writing from life - the name of our retreat. We began the work of getting it on paper, shutting out the world, leaving the "to-do" list behind and learning to be in the moment, quiet and still.
I believe happiness comes with a commitment not to let others derail you from what you know you need to do to find meaning and joy. Healthy self-love that your story is important and unique is crucial. So is the courage to let the words lead you where they must.
Much of life's success comes when you believe you have skill and talent; that you are worthy. But without encouragement from others, or just one person who says, "You can do this," that confidence can't happen. I thank Beth who gave me the confidence to facilitate our weekend.
"I leave so much richer . . .," Diane wrote.
I, too, leave richer because of the women who gave of themselves and trusted. I feel I have taken with me the memories of and for a lifetime. In many ways, all roads lead to Pendle Hill.
2 comments:
Words can not begin to express what the retreat meant to me. I came consumed with medical worries and left with a head full of possibilities and a new found sense of perspective. Thanks for all you did to allow the magic to happen.
Your energy and life force sets an example to all of us . . . not to mention you write like a dream! Thank you.
Susan
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