May 31, 2004
post path
Well, 24 hours later I suppose I should say something.
First, thanks to the other 7 guys on the album cover. Up until this point The Path has been for women, so kudos to the guys for being up for the experiment. And what a success it was! I can't describe to you what it was like, but words such as authenticity, honesty and transparency give a clue to the atmosphere.
And thanks to Idelette and Dr. Faith for being the other willing participants in the experiment. I don't know how many of these workshops Idelette has facilitated for women, but it took a lot of courage to step up to the plate with 10 guys sitting there.
I really am at a loss to say much about this sacred event. I don't want to give the impression that I am a believer in that famous non-scripture verse, "The Good Lord helps those who help themselves." I'm not. Yet, I am strongly of the opinion (as our community is sick of hearing from me) that there is God's part, and there is our part. So many of us think the effort ends with conversion. (See Chris' comment and my response in The Conversation for more on that.) I'm of the opinion that God has so much on His table for us (ie. spiritual formation/transformation), but it's up to us to pick it up... and do the work.
I've talked before about my changing definitions for terms such as "calling" and "God's will", among others. When we do the work, God points us in the right direction, in incredible ways. (I should point out that belief is not a prerequisite for The Path. We've had many who do not share our faith attend in the past.)
OK... I'm just rambling now. Obviously it was a very meaningful experience. I can only encourage you to consider attending an upcoming workshop. (There will be at least one more women's Path this year, but dates haven't been finalized. As far as the next men's Path, I guess it'll depend on demand. Visit our site and send us a note if you think you would be interested in coming out to beautiful BC and learning more about your Path.
"To explore and communicate radical faith and connect a community of Apprentices."
Wish I could have been there - hopefully next time (if there is a sequel)!
Posted by: Steve on May 31, 2004 07:24 PMme too.
BTW, good Post Path post.
There will be, and you both will be!
Posted by: Mike on May 31, 2004 07:42 PMHey Robert! Guess that means you get to cash in on my Sleeman's offer! It would be a pleasure.
Posted by: Lisa on May 31, 2004 09:46 PMlooking forward to it.
Posted by: robert on June 1, 2004 05:01 AMOne of the buzzwords I have been thinking about is "mutuality". In all relationships, there has to be mutuality. And, in my beliefs, that is what Jesus and God offer - partnering in relationship, mutuality, sharing on the journey. Sounds like what you experienced this weekend, and what you have a heart for. I'd love to do the women's path too.
Posted by: anj on June 1, 2004 05:18 AMYou all look very tough and manly in that photo.