The Courage Way – Remaining open to possibility – a Circle of Trust® one-day retreat

“Spring teaches me to look more carefully for the green stems of possibility:
for the intuitive hunch that may turn into a larger insight,
for the glance or touch that may thaw a frozen relationship,
for the stranger’s act of kindness that makes the world seem hospitable again.”
– Parker J. Palmer –

In this one-day retreat, we will draw on the metaphor of spring to reflect on signs of new growth in our lives – new ideas, new directions, and new possibilities that may be wanting to emerge in our lives and work. Spring offers us a powerful reminder that new possibilities grow from small beginnings, from seeds that have been planted or by bringing dormant skills back to life.

Spring also exemplifies the paradoxical nature of life. It is a season of opposites, both predictable and unpredictable. By learning to hold the tension of opposites, we grow our capacity to hold complexity and uncertainty in our lives, and to remain open to alternative solutions and ways of thinking.

Through the lens of spring our reflections will be guided by insights from poets, storytellers, and various wisdom traditions, as well as shared stories of our own experiences.

What green stems of possibility are emerging in your life right now?

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Going on retreat:
We use the word ‘retreat’ not to suggest escape or withdrawal, but rather as an opportunity to consciously engage at a deeper level with your life and work – time and space to pay attention to your identity and to embrace the various roles and responsibilities that fill your life. It is about engaging fully with yourself and the work you do.

Program Description
A Circle of Trust® retreat, based on the Courage & Renewal® approach, and based on the work of writer, teacher and social activist Parker J. Palmer, offers safe space for self-reflection and shared exploration.

If you are looking to develop your capacity and courage to lead a more authentic, meaningful, and engaged life that is aligned with your inner values, this retreat is for you.

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What people are saying about Mennie’s Circle of Trust retreats ….

Themes were explored using silence, interactive reflection, the most wonderful poems, videos and a variety of activities. I really appreciated learning about ‘open and honest questions’ which I now use in my practice as a clinical psychologist.     Veerle Poels, Whakatane, NZ

This wise, safe, and supportive approach is the best I have ever experienced, and with the Touchstones clearly expressed, makes it accessible to all.   C.R., Hamilton, NZ

A Circle of Trust retreat is a place of deep equality and acceptance.  Sandy Robertson, Diocesan School for Girls, Auckland, NZ

A stunning day – a very authentic, safe and inclusive experience.
Aroha mai to you, Mennie, for creating the space and place. This was an opportunity to celebrate our seasons, connect with our world and our place in it, and to be deliberate about growing ourselves in new ways that enable us to see and think in new ways.  Pip Woodward, Tauranga, NZ

I believe that many others would find value in such supportive spaces in which they can be deeply heard and enabled to process what is important to them. Helen Pearson, Principal, Horizon School, Auckland, NZ

Circle of Trust retreats are grounding, enriching, soulful, safe and real. I always leave with seeds planted for the future.  Tracey Carlton, Street Kai, Tauranga, NZ

Further information can be found at www.menniescapens.com or she can be contacted by email at scapens@xtra.co.nz