There is an instinct in us for newness for renewal,
for a liberation of creative power.
We seek to awaken in ourselves
a force that really changes our life from within.
And yet this same instinct tell us
That this change is a recovery of that which is deepest,
most original, most personal in ourselves.

–Thomas Merton

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Based on the work of Parker Palmer and described in his latest book A Hidden Wholeness, COURAGE TO LEAD builds on ten years of success in working with educators across the country. Using a retreat-based, small group model of formation, COURAGE TO LEAD is committed to creating open, disciplined spaces – circles of trust – where participants can discover again the deep connection between role and soul. Through a variety of experiences, participants are invited to listen for their own inner wisdom, to create a community of mutual respect and to reconnect professional identity and personal integrity.

Retreat as we understand it is not a withdrawal or escape from a life we don’t want to live. Rather, it is an opportunity to engage at a deeper level with our own true self and our unique calling. Our lives “back there” are not separate from what we do on retreat, and likewise the benefits of what we do on retreat will have a great impact on our personal and professional lives. COURAGE TO LEAD is designed to help persons engaged in a variety of professions discover again their identity as leaders and to embrace courageously the possibility of leading and living from a deep sense of integrity.

At Kirkridge Courage to Lead retreats are offered as introductory stand alone experiences or as a Seasonal retreat series.

This year the introductory program dates are:  
 
       October 10-12, 2008  
 
COMMITTING TO A SERIES RETREAT IS THE FINEST WAY TO EXPEREINCE THE DEPTH OF THIS WORK. COMING TOGETHER FOR 5 TIMES OVER A PERIOD OF APPROXIMATELY 18 MONTHS ENABLES PARTICIPANTS TO LISTEN MORE DEEPLY AND MAKE LIFE GIVING CHANGES IN THEIR LIVES. Each COURAGE TO LEAD retreat follows a seasonal theme, using the rich metaphor of the seasons as a way into reflection and discussion.
 Nov. 11-13, 2008: Fall Retreat: Discovering the Seeds of True Self.
Feb. 10-12, 2009: Winter Retreat: Embracing the Paradox of Dormancy and Deep Growth.
April 21-23, 2009: Spring Retreat: Renewal in the Midst of Muck and Mire.
June 8-11, 2009: Summer Retreat: Living an Abundant Life.
Septmeber 22-24, 2009: Final Retreat: Sustaining Courage for All Seasons.