These programs are based on the Circle of Trust® work of author Parker J. Palmer. First introduced under the name of Courage to Teach® they were designed to renew, sustain and inspire public school teachers. Since that time these opportunities have grown to include those who serve in higher education, health care, the legal system, faith communities, public service and business.

 

 Reflect and Recharge.

Focus on pressing work and life questions.

Find the courage to live in congruence with our values.

Sustain integrity and help our communities do the same.

Have fun together.

 

The Approach

We are most able to contribute to our family, workplace and community when we are connected to our authentic selves. Yet the time, space, silence and trusted companionship needed to do this is often in short supply. Using wisdom literature, poetry and the signs and experiences of the season these programs have helped thousands of people throughout the world pause and respectfully connect with the important questions of their lives. More information on the approach:

“ ‘Circles of Trust’ give us a chance to tap our deeper sources of knowing so we can see more clearly what is, what is coming and how we might find our way through, led by the soul as we go.”   Founder and author Parker J. Palmer

“If we want to support each other’s inner lives, we must remember a simple truth: the human soul does not want to be fixed, it wants simply to be seen and heard. If we want to see and hear a person’s soul, there is another truth we must remember: the soul is like a wild animal – tough, resilient, yet shy.  When we go crashing through the woods shouting for it to come out so we can help it, the soul will stay in hiding. But if we are willing to sit quietly and wait for a while, the soul may show itself.” PJP, Courage to Teach

 

From a CEO who attended a retreat just prior to the last financial melt-down:

 “Arriving at the retreat, my heart was agitated.

As I leave, it is still.

Arriving at the retreat, I was blaming.

As I leave, I am accepting full responsibility.

Arriving at the retreat, I was angry.

As I leave, I have a sense of peace.

Arriving at the retreat, I was focused on my own distress.

As I leave, I am seeing beyond myself again.

Arriving at the retreat, I was running from my pain.

As I leave I am allowing it to live in me.

Arriving at the retreat, my angst was palpable.

As I leave, I have hope about the present and the future.”

 

 

Renewal Opportunities

 

Day of Reflection – An introductory one-day program.

Overnight Retreat – A two day, one night residential program.

Seasonal Retreats – A series of four weekend retreats over twelve months.

 

“The purpose of an authentic “inner life” retreat is not to flee from a frightening world, but to give ourselves access to those deeper sources of knowing that can help us find our way through what we fear.”  PJP

 

 

Phone: 613 269 4427     Email: journey@ripnet.com