I’m a retreat whore. I have aspired to that since I went to my first after cancer retreat. An instant bond forms to other survivors and comfort comes from not being alone within the disease. Even though I’m three years out, I still gain a level of confidence from this association. 
Last week-end I enjoyed my third retreat with a group called Women Beyond Cancer. Two others have been at Miraval Spa in Tuscon. This one took place in Moab Utah. Each retreat has had a different focus and intent. I have loved all of them. The problem now is that I’m hooked but I’d rather not have to continue the cancer thing in order to enjoy the company of these grand people. It’s kind of like wishing yourself sick so you don’t have to go to work. I don’t want to do that.
Moab glowed in beauty of it’s red dirt.
Rain threatened the first day shoving clouds past the sun changing the scene like a clock ticking minutes, first shadows coloring the cliffs then sun radiating crisp lines of rock. We hiked, and breathed in the joy of comradeship and nature.
Women Beyond Cancer allows each participant to experience this magnificence at their own ability and pace. No one is expected to push beyond their comfort and yet no one is left without opportunity to make each experience happen for them. I witnessed the spectacular growth of one member of our group who has spent the majority of the last three years in bed. When she reached the summit to see
Delicate Arch tears flowed with the emotion of her accomplishment. She proclaimed that her life would never be the same. She would not return home to lie in bed. Each day she charged forth on another adventure and let nothing stop her.
Each of us had our own experience of finding new joy in our lives. Each activity brought excitement and wonder. Each moment of quiet brought peace. Each evening brought lives together in comfort and understanding. We learned from each other. We learned from our leaders. We learned from the landscape. Life delivers many blessings.
