Saturday, April 5, 2014

Retreat, dear friend, Retreat...

   I retreated to the Rolling Ridge Conference center in North Andover, Massachusetts
for a SoulCollage® facilitator's training this weekend. These words, painted on the wall, greeted me when I walked through the front door of the center.

   I try to go on at least two retreats each year.  Unlike this one, which has a purpose, I usually try to go for a quiet time in a special place...no agenda, no expectations, just heavenly peace and solitude.

   I think everyone should try to schedule these sorts of escapes.  They charge the contemplative batteries, I find.  Our minds are so full with the concerns of the day-to-day turmoil that we have to give ourselves permission to tune out from time to time.

   I also find that there is always some gentle lessons the landscape around the retreat centers gift me when I'm there.  It never fails.  I just open up to the possibilities and the images find me.

    I spent the hour or so before I checked in walking the grounds of the old estate.  I discovered a double labyrinth and some old fountains aching for restoration. (I was pleased to learn that there are plans in the works to accomplish that huge feat.)  Mainly, it was just wonderful to see the landscape coming to life, the birds singing and no snow!

   Despite the full agenda of this weekend, I plan to do several contemplative strolls and see what presents itself.  The weather seems willing to co-operate with me so I will be posting some "breadcrumbs" next week.  I recommend you try to find a retreat center near to you this year and retreat, dear friend, retreat!  Here is a link to my Pinterest site for some ideas...




4 comments:

Mystic Meandering said...

Thanks for the link. I think I saw one that is near Denver, Colorado, called Loretto Spirituality Center. I couldn't click on it because in order to see it I had to become a member of Pinterest. BUT - I am aware of such a place over on the west side, and now I will research it from this end, as that could be a place for me to "retreat" to :) Thanks

Patricia Turner said...

If you simply Google "Retreat Centers" with a location that should lead you to localized venues. How ever you find, dear friend, find one!

Mystic Meandering said...

Actually I googled Loretto Spirituality Center and found it! LOL As I suspected it is west of here, but very doable :) Yeay! I will also do as you suggest and google "Retreat Centers" to see what else might be available here...
Thanks once again! C

Patricia Turner said...

Hooray! Well done!