Closing day, 2019 women’s retreat.

Retreat leader Kae Neufeld says, “Even one story makes the trip worthwhile, but there are so many more.” Here is one such story.

One of the youth asked on Friday if she could tell her story to one of the leaders rather than in a group. On Saturday she was so concerned about what others knew about her, feeling so embarrassed, afraid of being known. Last night she made herself vulnerable to Carolyn who spent time with her. Carolyn discovered that this girl is a poet and encouraged her to share her poem. Today she stood up in the large group and recited her poem describing her challenges. It was so powerful that we had to pass around the box of tissues. This afternoon she got on the bus, no longer ashamed but beaming as she embraced her new friends. She now has a place where she is safe.

Everyone at the retreat gets a “mailbox” where others deliver notes of compassion, encouragement and support. These are brought home and treasured.