I just finished my mediation residency at the Werner Institute. Although we didn't have a peak experience like we did last October with the Arab Spring panel discussion occurring on the day Gaddafi lost his life (wow, was that powerful and timely), many of us attended two great films that addressed the healing slowly progressing in N. Ireland. That was a very good night..... a very good night indeed.

Regardless, the massive amount of learning that took place at the residency (through my lens anyway).... more than made up for any missing parts. I couldn't believe how comfortable I felt. I even had fun conducting my mediation simulation. (And I had Anat as a participant.... whew, that was a little weird at first.) But she is so very cool, it turned out to be not a problem at all. 

Many of my concerns, that naturally occur in advance of this kind of thing, were never realized. Things just have a way of working themselves out when one is around such intelligent humans. I was also very relaxed within the first hour or two, so that helped. I am so grateful to all the professors and participants, AND MY AMAZING CLASSMATES from all over the world. I love my program!!!!

I must turn my thoughts now to replacing my part time job, studying, carrying on with my business, and..... well - keeping up with life. It ain't easy!!!! I will be looking in earnest for something I can begin to do (part-time) where I can better use my new skills. I desire to be involved with something that is perhaps a bit more proactive instead of so reactive. And it would be great if I could share some meaningful time (at work) with some great folks who really care about what they do and the people who work with them. (I know, that is a tall order sometimes.)

Kudos to Creighton and the Werner Institute for another great week......and thanks again to Mary Lee, Bryan, Dave, Noam, Betty, Daniel, Bernie, Theresa, Declan, Ran, and Robert ..... oh geez, who am I forgetting? Thanks also to the coaches from the Concord Center, and all the people I am forgetting due to my increasing senility :)  (Yeah, not yet I hope.)

Jillian P.