Ohana gathers

And so, we begin.  

I am on the Big Island of Hawaii, at the magnificent Mauna Lani Bay Resort.  Slowly, over the last few days, ‘ohana’ (or family of choice) has been gathering in this place to spend time in shared discovery.  Our first time together will be in about an hour, at the Aloha Reception for the 22 of us who are here.  

In this moment, my heart is full…. of a sense of connection; of hope for the times that are coming; and of the desire to touch and be touched by those who desire to be awakened and stay awake!  I know that as this ohana gathers, I am in the good company of others who are seeking the ‘more’ that they know themselves to be. It is not about finding it – it is about allowing ourselves to be found by it. 

Tomorrow, Day 1 will be a time to connect with the Elements…. to find the Earth, Water, Fire and Air in their unique expressions and in how they come together to shape the ‘whole’ that each of us is.  Here, in Paradise, we are surrounded by these in ways that are impossible to NOT notice, experience and become.  

Kilauea is ever-present, with an intense, constant pressure as an expression of intensity.  What this says to me is that intensity will be found in the coming days, from inside ourselves.  How will we vent?  What will the plumes of our own emissions look like/sound like/feel like to ourselves and to others around us?  When we consider what moves inside of each of us, what surprises await? 

I am thrilled to be here – and I know there will be many more. Already, an ‘Emerging Futures’ four-day retreat for women exploring POWER… redefining it and reclaiming it… it taking shape for April of 2009.  I can feel the rumblings already…. 

For now, what I know more than at any other time:  breathing is good!