When joy & wisdom appear
I love synchronicity. And I really love when it shows up loud and clear.
Two weekends ago, I attended a “Circles of Healing” retreat in Mount Shasta, CA for those whose lives have been somehow touched by cancer or chronic illness. I went with my partner, who has survived cancer more than once, and also held my mom in my heart.
On the first day, one of the initial exercises was to get in touch with why we were there. What were my intentions? There were many things that my mind wanted – relaxation, a break from my constant thoughts, rest. And I also wanted to have fun and gain insights, always open to deepening my own inner optimism and personal awareness. So I wrote these intentions with yellow and orange colored pencils on the black piece of paper the facilitators gave us.
Then a tray of “intention cards” – each with a word written on it – were passed around, face down, and we were each to choose two. As I looked at the cards fanned out in front of me, I was drawn to one of them, but wondered if it would be the “right” card for me. There is always a moment of hesitation for me in these situations – back to the old patterns of wanting to “do it right.” Ha ha! But I went with my first instinct, and then chose a second card right away without thinking twice.
The first time, I picked JOY. The words written beneath were “Joy is our natural essence. Even while suffering once can feel joyful as a soul level.” This resonated so much, I laughed out loud as tears filled my eyes. Hmmm. Sounds quite a bit like experiencing inner optimism even in challenging times, the mission of my work. My second card only further confirmed what I wish to bring into my life and share with others: WISDOM. That’s the inner knowing, the mysticism – “Ability to bring insight into a life-challenging situation from the feeling center, the spiritual heart.” Bingo!
Joy and wisdom are what being “optimystic” is all about. What a beautiful way to start a powerful weekend of healing.
Dear Jennifer,
I was suppose to attend that retreat but for like the 3rd time…stuff came up and i had to back out.
I would really like to do one. Just wondering if they are still doing the Thursday afternoon support group? I use to go and usually one of them would email me if i had not shown up for few times. Plus, i saw flyers for it at my doctors’s.
Glad you had a great time…hope it is not too late for me.
Not sure if you attended Thursday group but they were very nice. It was such joy to take a break from my ‘real’ life and just focus on drawing and relaxing. It felt so positive and well. If you have not attended i strongly recommend that you do try. I hope your partner is still well and healthy and my heart goes out for your mother.
much love, lg