Contributed by Younng Joo Scharf
From October 28th - 30th, CARP Bay Area held its annual fall weekend retreat at the Heavenly Hills campground in Twain Harte, CA. The theme for this year was, "Making a Fresh Start". 21 people participated in the retreat.
The content for presenters were based on the Three Great Blessings from the Divine Principle and they were given by CARP mentors Kazuya Morita and Markus Von Euw.
Participants enjoyed the fresh autumn foliage and took walks around the retreat site in the woods. During the closing night, many stayed beyond the testimony bonfire to gaze at the Milky Way clearly seen from the grass. For some participants, this was the first time seeing the stars so clearly.
For many, team time and discussion was a highlight as well. In-depth discussion throughout the workshop time and in between presentations allowed the team members to bond with one another.
There was a pumpkin carving session to celebrate Halloween and each group got creative with its own pumpkin representing the team.
Testimonials:
“... I want to continue to be positive, open, and honest with people, God, and myself. I learned ways that helped open my eyes to try to make sure I stay on God’s path that he has planned for me and where I need to be at one day throughout the process of my purpose. I want to continue letting go of the negative factors that have been holding me back so I can truly have my heart be a strong temple for God and to have my whole body ready to serve him and my community forever.”
“Everything that happened here will help me along my spirituality and self growth…”
- Megan Muller, Chabot College student
“I learned that I would love to be more closer to God, to be grateful for all that he has given me. I learned that I am open to trying new things and God is everywhere. We have God in our hearts. I want to grow spiritually, and in my career. I realized I want God to be a part of every step I take. With his permission and guidance, I can achieve a lot. Love for God and others is the best thing I could ask for. An open heart, mind, body, that is health - God gave this to me and I should really take care of it and help others along the way. Share, even if I have less, I could still give it to someone in need.”
- Rhythm Sharma, 18, Chabot College student
“Living day by day can be pretty busy so having questions and opportunities to discuss helped me learn on what I need to focus on.”
“Having that discipline and courage to make those inner changes within myself. Then I can work on my personal relationships and see how I can help the people that I love. Despite hardships, we always persevere and keep going even if the beginning is tough to handle especially when you are all alone.”
- Melany Perez, 18, UC Berkeley student
Share your story to ryota@carplife.org.