A Spiritual Journey Through Creativity
I suppose much of my job is about creating space for people – space to explore and question, space to grow and learn, space to doubt and wonder. Until this past weekend, however, I had never really thought about my job in those terms. I co-facilitated a women’s retreat with my mom for women I’d… Continue reading Space
Dear 3-month-ago me, Thanks. Thanks for thinking to plan a trip in the not-so-distant future to help us get through the winter - through the long, dark nights of the season. Thanks for being willing to spend a little more than usual so that we wouldn't have to think about where to eat or what… Continue reading Thanks
I’m struggling to focus my thinking enough to write something coherent today. I could ignore my goal of writing every day during Lent. I did say I wouldn’t write if I had nothing to say. And, I’ve already missed one day, so what will it hurt to miss another? I don’t want to write today… Continue reading Unfocused
When I started in my position at North as youth minister almost 9 years ago, I kept some of the traditions but also added my own touches. One of the “sacred cows” of their youth ministry is the Lenten retreat. Every year in early March all of the youth – 6th-12th grade – go on… Continue reading Anointed
I imagine that for many people, when they hear the word “retreat” they think of relaxing in a quiet space for reflection. I think of that too. But the reality of “retreat” for me is work – very little relaxing, even less quiet space and, if I’m lucky, some reflection. Why? Because when I go… Continue reading Retreat
I must admit – there were times during my sabbatical when I did not want to go back to work. I liked the flexibility of each day – I had time to read and write at my own pace, walk and go to yoga when I wanted. Each day was my day and I loved… Continue reading Work
When I returned to my office last Thursday, I first saw my door covered in balloons and welcome back signs. I walked into my office and was surrounded by a yarn web – it was strung back and forth, to and fro, all over my office! At various spots on the web there were clothespins… Continue reading Web
When I’m in a crowd of people I don’t know, it’s easy to feel okay. I’m not seeing myself reflected in their eyes. I don’t recall times of joy or pain shared with these people. In some ways I’m invisible and that makes my pain feel less intense. However, when I’m with one person I… Continue reading Open Wound
Anne Brock 