Love and Gratitude

Connie Hyde, Cedar Crest NM

Arriving at the airport, Virginia greeted us with her gay song, “We’re off to see the wizard, That wonderful wizard of ours!” For Jim and I, it had been a rollercoaster of leaving our children, making arrangements, convincing ourselves that it was OK to accept this opportunity.

How does one describe the Meditation Retreat at Green Gulch Farm? Each day was full. Our meditations were lovingly, patiently guided by Justin. The sessions flowed. Walks to the beach, perusing the library’s fine collection, listening to Victor play piano, Seijaku, visits to the gardens and farm. Meals, tasty and nourishing. Deer visited our guest house. Group T’ai Chi Chih, totally in silence. The last evening, we listened as each of us verbally shared an opening experience through meditation. Love and Gratitude, the coming together.

Preparing to leave for the airport on Sunday, Sandy McAlister, our retreat coordinator, again stepped forward as leader by suggesting that we visit the beach before leaving. Her direction and warmth remain a strong image of the week. Discovering urchins, sand warm under the toes, big breakers moving, the huge ocean.