I am back home from visiting my home church early this week. After such a wonderful visit, I finally have time to share about my time away.
First, the plane ride from the small Idaho airport was uneventful. But the craziness at the Seattle airport was very unfamiliar to me. More on that later.
After arriving late in the evening to Olympia, I barely had time to greet my host before retiring to bed.
But the next day, I visited the home where Rev. Michelle was staying to give her a very warm and long hug. After working together for so long, it was wonderful to meet her face-to-face!
Most of Friday was spent sightseeing before the Friday evening Retreat session. After returning to the church facility after two years, I realized that many things were a bit different about the surroundings. Reconnecting with the rest of the practitioners, most of whom I knew well, was nice—like coming back home after an extended absence.
I am visiting My Home Church for TWO Retreats!
Rev. Michelle led a wonderful deep retreat for CSL Olympia practitioners. We had time to be open and affirming to each other as Rev. Michelle led us in exercises to deepen our commitment to each other and our purpose in the Center. It was nice getting to know these fellow practitioners on a deeper level.
On Saturday, the CSL Olympia practitioners met with a few other practitioners in the area for a full-day retreat. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals was heavenly. Based on the teachings and exercises Rev. Michelle offered, we openly shared our thoughts and feelings with one another. That night, I called my husband and told him I was with my people!
If that wasn’t enough, Sunday service was spectacular. Of course, Rev. Michelle spoke and conducted an after-service workshop. Much to my surprise, a fellow practitioner had baked me and another member a birthday day (my birthday was Monday). It was delicious. I knew many of the folks after being a part of the Center for nearly 7 years. Even at that, some, whom I did not know, openly welcomed me and thanked me for all I do for the Center.
I left on Monday feeling ‘loved up,’ happy, and fulfilled emotionally and spiritually.
All was well until I got lost in the Seattle airport, waited for 15 minutes or more in the wrong line, and barely made it to my gate before they were all done boarding passengers! But, since I had such a wonderful weekend visiting my home church, I just took it all in stride, knowing all was well with the world!