Two weeks ago, I was at Whidbey Institute on Whidbey Island (a fabulous place to escape). I was there with 35 women for a Second Journey retreat by Joan Anderson. I have written before about Joan’s books and how they have touched my soul and opened my eyes to the possibilities of more. It was such an extraordinary experience and so reassuring to know that I’m not the only woman who wants more. Actually, I would say that I and most of the other women retreaters – needed to stop and listen to that voice shouting inside of us to stop – examine – dream – and feel the magic of a Second Journey. My wonderful husband, Russell, gave me the retreat for my birthday and ironically, there was another woman there whose husband gave her and her best friend the retreat for her birthday.
I’m not sure how I can explain what the retreat was about. One of the things Joan said is that women are the carriers of culture. We need to become scholars of our self and soul. We spend so much time taking care of everyone else in our life, seeing to our children, work, home, making time for our marriages, extended family, outside activities, etc. We did a calendar exercise which was quite revealing. We had to remember all we could about the activities from last year and then rate how many of those activities or events were for someone else (or if we had to do all the work to make the event happen). How much time did we spend on ourselves, on indulging ourselves in something that nourishes our soul and makes our heart sing? Not surprisingly, most everything I listed had to do with Shanna, school, family events, work, etc. Those are definitely things that we do because we love our children, spouse and extended families. How much time did I spend on me? Not much. Most of us have lost our childhood wonder, our ability to let go and laugh, sing, dance and be goofy.
Whidbey Institute (www.whidbeyinstitute.org) is located on 70 acres of evergreen forest and meadow lands laced with a network of walking trails which encourage creative interaction, exploration and deep reflection. I stayed in the Farmhouse, a beautifully restored 19th century barn red home with 8 tiny bedrooms upstairs (it was like staying at Grandma’s house with the sloped roof and the quilt on the bed). There are no televisions, radios or phones at Whidbey Institute and we were all asked to turn our phones and computers off and leave the world behind for 48 hours. Who knew that 32 very diverse women, ranging in age from 40 up to 72, from 15 states and Canada, could come together in a quest to find themselves (I know, that’s very 1980’s). I just read an article by Bruce Goettshe entitled: “The Prerequisite for Joy”. Have you ever had someone tell you, "I need to find myself"? As goofy as it sounds, you and I know that this is a figure of speech which means a person is trying to understand their purpose, their personality, their deepest aspirations. They feel confused and disoriented. When we know God's peace, all the pieces come together. People who need to find "themselves" are not really looking for themselves...are looking for Jesus. He is alone is the source of peace.”
I have spent a lot of time praying and reflecting on what my next step in life should be. On Saturday, we spent 6 hours in silence (no talking at all). We went to the Earth Sanctuary, a beautiful 72-acre preserve. At Earth Sanctuary, nature is the top priority. Reclaim your spirit in its beautiful forests and reflective ponds. Experience megalithic sacred sites and eco-art, walk the labyrinth, amplify your prayers at the Native American medicine wheel. Enjoy the abundance of birds while walking the nature reserve's two miles of paths.” It was truly a spiritual place. I spent hours walking, finding little chairs and benches to sit on while enjoying the sounds of nature, watching herons performing their mating rituals of gliding and dancing in and above the lake. We were each given a box lunch (wearing multiple layers to ward against the cool and rainy weather). As a rule, I’m not a journaler except on the computer but we were each asked to bring a journal to write our thoughts and wishes, to let our heart speak on paper. We spent almost 5 hours in silence, communing with nature. That evening, we gathered together with some wine and appetizers and we talked, cried and laughed until our sides hurt. Without exception, this retreat was a major highlight and event in my life. I can’t wait to go to my next Joan Anderson retreat…if you have the opportunity and are wanting to make some changes, go to one of Joan’s retreats (www.joanandersononline.com). Absolutely fabulous!