Stepping Into Courage
There were plenty of reasons not to sign up for a Returning to Spirit workshop.
This might be uncomfortable.
My anxiety might be overwhelming.
My mom is the facilitator.
I don't want to have to speak in public.
And yet, for Carina, the opportunity was worth it.
"As a daughter of one of the workshop facilitators, I have been lucky enough to witness firsthand the growth and transformation that can result from taking part in an RTS workshop.
When it came time to enroll for the Roots of Reconciliation workshop, I was very apprehensive about participating. I had recently left my six-year employment, and I was at the lowest point in my confidence. As a result, I was convincing myself that I couldn't possibly overcome my fear of public speaking in order to engage in the workshop's group activities. I was also sincerely worried about having a panic attack in front of the other participants."
For most people, fear is what holds us back from all kinds of experiences. All of our "what if's" come flooding to the surface and our ability to say "yes" to the unknown becomes increasingly difficult if not seemingly impossible. For Carina, the ability to take that first step to register even with the fears and "what if's" in her space is what ultimately created a meaningful transformation in her life.
"I believe that I was very unsure/insecure about myself before the workshop and that I had really withdrawn into my shell. After the workshop, I felt lighter and more confident in my ability to face potentially uncomfortable situations."
A key aspect of our workshops is creating an environment that is inclusive, safe and welcoming to all participants. Our Trainers provide each group with a sense of what the workshop will entail & what to expect. For Carina, this overview helped ease her first day jitters and made it easier to manage her social anxiety.
Carina's experience was particularly unique as she also stepped into this process with her mother, Dianne Little as one of the co-Trainers for the workshop. What came from this was truly transformational.
"I feel that we developed a stronger bond, because we were both able to listen to the other’s stories and experiences without making assumptions about them. Instead, we both chose to step into courage to speak openly to each other, as well as the group."
We all have "what if's" when venturing out into new experiences but we can learn to shift those into: "What if this is healing?", "What if this brings me peace?", "What if this helps my relationships?". The list of possibilities goes on and on if we let ourselves take that first step, just like Carina had the courage to do.
"I’m incredibly appreciative of the opportunity to interact with so many amazing participants/facilitators and to leave with more knowledge than when I originally signed up for the RTS workshop."
If you're ready to step into the process please visit our Workshop Calendar. If you have any questions about our work, please reach out to info@returningtospirit.org
A big thank you to Carina Rheubottom-Little for sharing her experience with us.
