Each morning there was a word chosen for the six days. The words were awareness, stillness, reverence, listen, transformation and gratitude. In the evening a candle was lit and we gathered in a circle to talk about how we experienced the word for the day. It was always enlightening, endearing and heartfelt.
By the end of the week we had encountered each other in many ways. We ate together, prayed together, meditated together, did art together, toured together and left Italy with hearts transformed. We saw others with different eyes, because they were mirrors to ourselves. We closed the circle of travel by giving to each one the gift of words. On watercolor paper we each wrote a characteristic trait that we recognized in another and knowing that these were our own gifts as well. Some of mine that were given were reflective, inviting, sensitive, love, light, serene, rock and teacher. What I gave to others were grounded, centered, eager, yearning, contemplative, vivacious, generous spirit, heart of love, gracious, thoughtful, quiet and knowledgeable.
"The stranger at the heart of my journey is me--transformed. I have come all this way to find this new person. At the center of my wanderings, the world is strange, wonderful and new. Al that I see and touch now is new. With a rush of recognition, I lovingly accept and embrace my new self." The Way of the Traveler by Joseph Dispenza
2 comments:
I am so very jealous of your trip! It looks absolutely beautiful and breath taking. I'm glad you had a wonderful time and I'm sure your students will always be grateful for you being there with them!
Dear Rosie - Thanks for sharing a glimpse into your journey! I'm so glad your daughters got to join you on this experience.
I'll never forget the weekend you and Trish had the kernel of the idea at Saw Mill Creek. You made your dream a reality! Way to go! I hope I get to see you soon...love to all, Karen M.
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