Unconditional Love
A refreshing universal energy that restores us to wholeness

Forgiveness
The experience of releasing an expectation that is causing us to suffer

Happy New Year! I love the New Year re-start energy that is afoot now. I don't know about you, but I'm ready to celebrate a new year at any time: Chinese, Hindu, Jewish - you name it, I'll claim it. It seems like life is so much about starting fresh again, over and over - always beginning again. I think there is no failure in that, either. It takes so many iterations of learning to get some things, and to master other things. There isn't any one who doesn't have to periodically let go of disappointments and so-called failings, and start again. And again. The people who create joy and realize their dreams are people who can let themselves humbly submit to this process, without being disheartened. Instead they can empower the heart and mind for yet another round of self-disciplined steps toward the vision of who they can be - all the while knowing that they're just fine as they are. I'm wishing for you this year the mastery of acceptance and compassion for yourself as you are, with the courage and motivation to become who you will be at your best. That's what I'm resolving to do - again!

If you haven't done so yet, I also hope this is the year that you will give yourself the gift of the experience of a forgiveness workshop - we have several coming up soon, and we'd love to have you there. You will find out how much lighter you feel when you let go of some old things and connect yourself to the energy of your soul in a new way. I will never forget the surprise and blessing of the experience of my first Unconditional Love and Forgiveness workshop 22 years ago, when my mentor Edith Stauffer was teaching this work. There was something palpable in the room, a soft and buoyant energy that made me feel comfortable and acceptable just as I am, in a room full of strangers. I was usually one to feel shy and separate from others in a group, but instead I found myself gently brought in to a safe circle of human community in a new way. In that space I took a few risks to heal myself emotionally, and it seemed fairly effortless. I felt so light and free afterwards! I attended many of her workshops after that, have led many of my own, and they are all so different but consistently powerful. So if you have attended the forgiveness workshop already and would like another infusion of insight and healing energy, keep coming back. You're very welcome - again!

There are so few places in this world where you can share yourself honestly with others about something that has hurt you, and be helped to get free of it in such a respectful and practical way. In the nearly 20 years that I have continued and further developed this work, I can confidently say to you that if you come to our workshop, you will soon feel very comfortable, and you will be so glad that you came. For most people, it is a real and positive turning point towards greater peace, purpose, and joy. Thanks for joining us in the healing adventure that brings more harmony to our personal lives and to our world. All the best to you for 2008!

"And everyone 'neath the vine and fig tree, will live in peace and unafraid -
And into plowshares beat their swords, nations shall learn war no more."