It’s been a long time since I wrote about personal retreats. Click the links to read my previous articles: A Personal Retreat (2000); Personal Retreats – A First-Hand Experience (2000); Personal Retreats (2001); Personal Retreats (2005)
TEC speaker Walt Sutton introduced me to personal retreats. I did my first one in 2000. It seems long ago and, yet, not so long ago. At that time I had 2 business partners — today 6 — and we were in different premises. I had 2 daughters and a son (still do), none of whom had met their spouses yet. I had no grandchildren — today I have 5. My wife Faye was still working — she has been retired 9 years now. Those are some of the physical differences. The mental differences are also considerable. I am happier, more relaxed and more fulfilled than at any other time in my life. Perfect? No. Better? Oh, yes.
Writing down what I would like to do, writing down an analysis of a particular situation – these bring clarity, and things happen. As if, if you build it, they will come. So, if you write it, it will happen. Most of what I have written has come to pass. And that is most gratifying.
I am going on my 16th consecutive personal retreat this Grey Cup weekend. I have my notes from the previous 15 and will review them all. I will struggle with what more I would like to do before I die. I will also struggle with what the next step is. What I know is, the struggles are well worth the effort. Each time, the retreat has been a game changer for me and for those around me. Thanks, Walt.