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Men Sharing Never thought I'd be a man attending a men's retreat, but this experience was terrific. The initial discomfort of being with men I didn't know very well, and all layers of protection built up over the years so as not be seen for who we truly are, was shed in a spirit of honesty and acceptance. The experience was challenging, humbling, thought provoking, and rewarding. Men being free enough to reveal themselves, and to share in a safe and intimate way. What a weekend, I got more than I bargained for. I opened the door to dark corners of my mind where, up until now, I had only been able to peak at. Properly held and supported, now I know I can start to journey a new road….happy, joyous, and free. I have the greatest respect for the men who were in the room with me. I was clearly impacted profoundly by Sean’s ability to ebb and flow with the energy of the individual and the group and hold the container so safely yet challenge each of us in a soft gentle way. I’ve done enough of these workshops, and God knows I own enough books, to know how I should be living my life, what works, and what keeps me moving forward. But I often stray off track, and get lost in things and in emotions, spinning my wheels. Being at Arjuna Conference with a bunch of guys who were willing to be open and trying to be honest felt really good, and reminded me about what is important in my life. And it was a lot of fun. I can’t wait for next year’s conference! While attending the 2008 Arjuna Conference, I was reminded of the courage it takes look within and take responsibility for who I am being right now. I was also made aware through the honest sharing of the group that although we all come from different places, each of us with varying degrees of self-acceptance, (or self-loathing, as the case might be), every man benefits when even one man see himself in his true light. |