"Reclaiming Soul" – a collective exploration
The exact label for this group is not set, and may not be. It's not a
therapy group or a support group or a book club, but perhaps a little
of each and more.
The object of the group is to provide a means for a small group of
well-functioning adults to come together and explore ways to survive
and thrive as human beings in the midst of challenging times. Many
people acknowledge that there are aspects of our culture that do not
support us – materialism, individualism, alienation. We lack
structures that facilitate community and affirm our core values. Some
people find groups such as churches acceptable but many do not.
This group will be an experience of looking at some of our deepest
needs and dilemmas – meaning, responsibility, connection, mortality –
and explore the ways we can honestly face and deal with them. There
are no answers or formulas. However, from an existential-humanistic
point of view, we must engage these questions in order to have
satisfying lives and be fully human. We also have many options for
response. People have amazing ideas, resources, and creativity. The
process is much easier when shared with others.
In this group, everyone is wise and learning to share that intuitive
wisdom. I am not a guru and I have the same existential challenges as
everyone else. I will facilitate however, and I will provide readings
and provoke you to explore. My goal will be to help you forge a
cohesive set of relationships that will inspire you to the courage you
need to advance to a new level in your life. We may also have
experiential parts of the group process geared to help focus and gain
awareness.
Potential authors: Thomas Moore, Rollo May, Victor Frankl, Irving
Yalom, Scott Peck, Anne Morrow Lindburgh, Susan Griffin. (I'm still
developing this, and open to ideas).
Cost will be $30/per person weekly, $50 for a couple. Financial need
will be considered if this is a hardship or becomes one.
Starting date will be when the group comes together.
Hope you can join us.
Warmly,
Marlene Winell, Ph.D.
510-292-0509
