I came into the group feeling extremely centered, grounded. A week of meditation and solitude, connecting with nature, had set the stage for what became a very rewarding, enriching experience. All of my fears never materialized, they were only fears created in the mind of ego.

My prayer to Mother Earth was answered from the start. Mother Earth communicated her powerful message of grounded presence, deeply penetrating through to my own core of Being. Now matter how expansive the mind became, Mother Earth held on to me, keeping the connection and the agreement we made together, no matter how much I wanted to soar, to fly off into realms unknown. I had agreed to be fully present and mindful, to be open to others' experiences, and to openly share with my heart their journeys.

When we sang each others' names, I began to truly touch the heart of each and every soul whose name we called out. Even now I find myself singing out these names, which makes my heart sing of love and respect for the unique beauty and charm that each person shared with me. How I love each and every one so dearly! While writing this I feel a sense of loss -- I miss their presence. But when I sing out their names, they are magically present and real.

Never have I felt so much love and joy with a group. I wanted to express this, but how? My heart was so open, drinking in the rich energy that filled the room. I humbled myself over each person's place, bowing down to their magnificent radiant Light. Mother Earth guided me, urging me to serve the group as well as my heart commanded.

There were times when we were of on our own individual journeys of selfexploration. I thought about my family and friends. I was struck by how much love they have for me. I had to honor that somehow. I need to learn to be more accepting, more forgiving of their shortcomings, for the only experience I can truly share with them is one of complete abiding trust and respect for each and every one of them. They have chosen their own paths to individuation and union with God; mine is not to question these paths but to honor them. It doesn't matter that I may not always understand what they do or why.

When love pours forth from within me like the incessant waves of the eternal sea, I know that Love is the only source of power -- nothing else is as real or as true as this power to love. And when it touches others, then I feel closest to the Divine Spirit -- my heart soars to tremendous heights and depths.

I thought deeply of my husband, of how much my love for him is blessed by Divine Will. All issues, difficulties between us seemed insignificant when in touch with the power of this love. I was struck by the realization that our destinies lie in the all-knowing presence of God. No matter what direction our realization takes us in, it is still within God's universal plan. I must learn to let go and let this plan unfold as it should, regardless of the outcome. My mission is to be open to the lessons we are learning from one another and to remain unconditionally supportive of our individual goals. No matter what happens, our love will continue to deepen and to expand, for that is our truth!

The high point came quite unexpectedly during the morning's sharing ritual. I didn't realize how the ecstasy from within grew to unknown dimensions. Once again I could not contain all the love and joy I felt for everyone. Giving expression to this in the form of dancing, singing, touching, hugging, etc., brought the intensity of feelings to an all time high.