Afterglow

Cynthia, laughing, after our group’s last dinner together at Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, August 2025. Photo by Stef Etow.

Every time I guide a mindfulness and writing retreat at Green Gulch Farm or Tassajara, I depart feeling simultaneously filled up and empty. Full of inspiration. Empty of energy. It takes a day or two to recover, but it’s oh so worth it!

I’m amazed at the instant yet ephemeral community that is formed by the writers at the table. We go deep, almost immediately. And by the end of our time together, we’ve rolled up our proverbial sleeves and mined the corners of our beings to unearth a treasure of words and meaning. I’m always astounded and so grateful to be part of it.

And there’s the bonus of the last farewell morning — how it feels like the end of summer camp. A camp where we’ve made fast friends, where we hope we can return again soon, where we’ve been at home in exactly who we are, where we’ve heard our true voices heard.

If you’ve not experienced writing with me, your next big chance is to come to Green Gulch Farm in November. See the Events tab for details. There will be more opportunities, of course, and I’ll be updating the website accordingly.

Until we write together again (or for the first time), let your words flow. The world needs them.