Golden Pen Reading Retreats
“Tis the good reader that makes the good book; a good head cannot read amiss, in every book he finds passages which seem confidences or asides hidden from all else and unmistakably meant for his ear.”
--Emerson
There is an intimate connection between the reader and the image in literature. Most of us, when immersed in a book, are not particularly aware of the pictures that form in our minds or the feelings associated with those images. Yet one of the joys of reading is when we experience the emotional recognition of an image or phrase that echoes our own sentiment or seems meant just for us. This flash of illumination appeals to the heart as well as the mind and primes us for further reflection.
Reading Retreats
Golden Pen Retreats are for readers who want to explore life issues through reflective reading and writing. They are about getting to know one’s self through stories --not through what literally happens, but by how it resonates with one’s own storyline. The retreats focus upon the unique, complex and multi-faceted perceptions of the reader, rather than the readings themselves. The book is simply a catalyst.
Insights, impressions and memories are supported through interactive journaling. The act of writing about personal discovery helps the reader to articulate feelings and thoughts in light of their own personal history and to consider new perspectives. Reflective responses can then be helpful in providing alternative views, reframes or suggestions for further exploration. Although each retreat is individualized to suit the needs of the participant, all involve reading, reflection and interactive journaling.
Retreat Topics
Two reading retreats are currently being offered. One is organized around diverse readings in fiction, essay, biography, and personal narrative.
The other is more structured and intensive, utilizing only one text. Both are described below.
Vision and Values in Work
This retreat focuses on the nature and role of work and vocation, portraying themes of loyalty, devotion and service as well as conflict and burnout. Selected readings in fiction, essay, metaphor, biography and personal narratives invite participants to reflect upon the challenges, inspirations and ambiguities of their own work and the impact it has on their lives.
Creative Pathways
This retreat is based on The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity, by Julia Cameron and Mark Bryan. The book includes reader-friendly chapters on recovering a sense of safety, identity, power, integrity, possibility, abundance, connection, strength, compassion, self-protection, autonomy and faith. It also includes experiential and written exercises for those who wish understand creative blocks and develop
greater access to creative expression.
--Emerson
There is an intimate connection between the reader and the image in literature. Most of us, when immersed in a book, are not particularly aware of the pictures that form in our minds or the feelings associated with those images. Yet one of the joys of reading is when we experience the emotional recognition of an image or phrase that echoes our own sentiment or seems meant just for us. This flash of illumination appeals to the heart as well as the mind and primes us for further reflection.
Reading Retreats
Golden Pen Retreats are for readers who want to explore life issues through reflective reading and writing. They are about getting to know one’s self through stories --not through what literally happens, but by how it resonates with one’s own storyline. The retreats focus upon the unique, complex and multi-faceted perceptions of the reader, rather than the readings themselves. The book is simply a catalyst.
Insights, impressions and memories are supported through interactive journaling. The act of writing about personal discovery helps the reader to articulate feelings and thoughts in light of their own personal history and to consider new perspectives. Reflective responses can then be helpful in providing alternative views, reframes or suggestions for further exploration. Although each retreat is individualized to suit the needs of the participant, all involve reading, reflection and interactive journaling.
Retreat Topics
Two reading retreats are currently being offered. One is organized around diverse readings in fiction, essay, biography, and personal narrative.
The other is more structured and intensive, utilizing only one text. Both are described below.
Vision and Values in Work
This retreat focuses on the nature and role of work and vocation, portraying themes of loyalty, devotion and service as well as conflict and burnout. Selected readings in fiction, essay, metaphor, biography and personal narratives invite participants to reflect upon the challenges, inspirations and ambiguities of their own work and the impact it has on their lives.
Creative Pathways
This retreat is based on The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity, by Julia Cameron and Mark Bryan. The book includes reader-friendly chapters on recovering a sense of safety, identity, power, integrity, possibility, abundance, connection, strength, compassion, self-protection, autonomy and faith. It also includes experiential and written exercises for those who wish understand creative blocks and develop
greater access to creative expression.
