Commitment to Self

Several years ago, I attended a Yoga & Writing Retreat for Women in Sedona, Arizona led by Sarah McLean.  When I explained to her that I was newly widowed, that my Anniversary Weekend was quickly approaching, and that I was looking for a new perspective within which to view this time, her reply was "this retreat is a perfect gift for oneself."  With a bit of trepidation I arrived and found myself immersed with a group of loving souls, each from various places in life. The weekend was spent in deep meditations, followed by expansive writing exercises that expressed our creative souls.  The revelations from these writings were surprising and deeply healing.  My initial intention to honor myself and to create a meaningful new spiritual experience ended with my coming away with the most incredible, transformational experience of my life.

On the final day of the Retreat, together with another participant, we went into town to shop for a special memento.  With our purchases in hand, we then climbed to a favorite spot, sat upon the vortex and placed our items on our laps to unwrap.  My purchase a beautiful silver band with a coral stone, reflecting endurance, vitality, play, and creativity.  As I placed it on my ring finger, I promised to "love, honor and cherish myself all the days of my life."  Truly powerful, energetic and liberating.  
​The significance of this Anniversary day remains forever with me.     

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