First Alumni Group Meeting

           What an amazing morning! I arrived a little late and the ‘party’ had already started. The two hosts, Betty and Judy, had begun to gather the guests beginning with introductions. The task was simple and carefully laid out: Give your name; year you graduated from Tacheria; what was your Tacheria experience; are you seeing directees; where are you in life right now; and what do you hope to get from the alumni group

           At first I felt trepidation about my turn.  I began to formulate what I would say.  Although I knew most of the people around the table as former classmates, from the Tacheria board, or from St Francis we hadn’t seen one another for some time. My ego was sure that no one there felt as insecure, confused, or fearful about the future as me.  Which could only confirm my belief that everyone is more spiritual, always feels a more meaningful connection to the Divine, and is secure in their place in the world. How could I tell them that everything had changed and nothing had changed. Yes, I’m still trying to create an income doing the work I love (‘haven’t you done that YET??); Yes, I’m seeing a directee (how can you lead when you don’t know the way yourself???) Yes, I loved the monthly Tacheria meetings, and missed every single one of my classmates (but join the alumni group and examine AGAIN the feelings of disconnect and isolation that sometimes overwhelms me??)

           Then Nancy told her story. Nancy who, for me, has been the epitome of spiritual enlightenment in my personal circle. Who seems to always have a connectedness to the Mystery, an understanding of nature, and a confidence that comes forth through every smile. Nancy offered her answers to the questions presented. And she was REAL…stating the challenges, and the blessings of her life. Through her tears I felt her love, her vulnerability, her willingness to share not just her story, but also the joys and hardship that came with it.

           Others followed Nancy’s lead. It was no longer about ME…what I did or didn’t accomplish in my work life; whether I was ‘practicing’ a particular spiritual format or not. It had now become about being WITH – these people and the Divine through each of them. As each in turn gave their answers it became clear that this party had another host…God, Spirit, the Divine Mystery was evident in each answer, in every word, and in every-body.

           Khalil Gibran once wrote “Man closest to man is closest to God.” The alumni group is going to RE-mind me that as I reveal myself to others, I renew my connection to the Infinite.

           Meetings will be held the first Saturday of each month beginning January 3, 2009. All Tacheria alumni are welcome!