Dear Journal, This week has been transformative in ways I hadn’t expected. One of the highlights was our campfire night, which turned out to be an evening of deep introspection and connection. Aretha gathered all the retreat attendees around a crackling fire, the warmth and light creating an intimate circle of trust. We started the evening with an exercise that involved writing letters to things that had hurt us in the past. It was a powerful moment, watching everyone around the fire scribble down their pains, regrets, and unresolved emotions. As we threw our letters into the flames, I felt a sense of release, as if the fire was consuming not just the paper but the weight I had been carrying. Aretha spoke about our internal flame and how important it is to keep it alive. She explained that setting healthy boundaries is crucial for maintaining our inner fire. It was a concept that resonated deeply with me. I realized that I’ve often let my boundaries be blurred, allowing others to dim my light. This exercise was a reminder that my well-being matters and that it’s okay to protect my energy. After the introspective exercises, we lightened the mood by making s’mores around the campfire. It was the first time I had tried them and my goodness they were scrumptious and messy but totally worth it. With sticky fingers and melted chocolate bringing out the childlike joy in all of us. The combination of laughter and shared stories created a sense of community and belonging that I’ve been craving. The next morning, we woke up to the sound of birds chirping and the smell of coffee brewing over the campfire. There was something comforting about starting the day with a hearty breakfast cooked over the open flame. The simplicity of it all made me appreciate the small things that often go unnoticed in our busy lives. After breakfast, we went for a hike, exploring the beautiful trails around the lake. The physical activity was invigorating, and the conversations with the other retreat-goers were enlightening. We shared our experiences, our hopes, and our fears, and it felt like we were all supporting each other on this journey. This week has taught me the importance of letting go of the past and nurturing my internal flame. It’s been about finding strength in vulnerability and learning to set boundaries that protect my well-being. The campfire night was a pivotal moment in this retreat, and I’m grateful for the connections and insights it has brought. Lots of love, Alex P.s. Why do they call it “over easy”? There’s nothing easy about cooking eggs this way!
