Recently, I took part in an amazing retreat organised by the industrious Imen McDonnell, you can read about it in her blog. The few days in Connemara were beautiful and the experience made me think a lot about who I am and where I'm going and I sincerely hope Imen organizes a few more of these... perhaps using some of our local talent too.

It will surprise you to find that this is my third attempt at writing this post. I genuinely didn't know how to start it. The first draft was quite intense (I write like that when I feel strong about something). The second draft was more measured... but although I was saying EVERYTHING I wanted to say, it felt wrong... and I wasn't sure why... I talked to Alan a lot about it for a few days, then I spoke to Imen too (who I cannot begin to thank for being so understanding with my crazy feelings and for being ok with what I'm sharing here) and then my blog got hacked and I couldn't get at it... but this post was constantly on my mind...

Today, when I'm finally publishing it, I feel a great sense of relief. It's out there now. I've said my piece and I've come to terms with it.  While all I wrote in my first two drafts was true... it felt like bashing something that was, in its whole, good. It also felt like I was leaving all personal responsibility outside the door and I was not ok with it. I was writing from that hollier than holy place we all go to when we have a guilty concious. So, today's final post is, at least, honest and true. It's been written in the hope that my experience enlights someone else out there and with a sense of gratitude to all of those involved in the retreat. Thank you for the company.