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Serena Vogel's avatar

Alan, your writing speaks directly to me. I went on retreat this summer for 6 days. It was a time of emptying out so much of what lives within me that really needs tending to. I knew I wanted to come home different than how I arrived there and wanted to really integrate what I learned and touched within myself...and what I shared to allow others to touch. Having been home from the retreat for two months, I have managed to create a good amount of time each week to stay connected with my newly emptied self. I spend a great deal of alone time in nature and like you taking lots of photos for the same reasons you described. Thank you for the description of walking along side the river on solid ground. You speak the words I have felt but did not have my own words for. I could go on and on. Thank you always for your writing. Each piece speaks to my heart deeply. Peace to you.

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Alan Seale's avatar

What a beautiful response to this essay, Serena. Thank you. I love how you describe your own journey. And thank you for your kind words about my writing. I'm so glad that what I write speaks to you. May your journey continue to unfold in a way that feeds your soul.

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Mark Braber's avatar

I love this invitation of Intentional emptiness and the metaphore you use. Thank you for sharing your experiences and wisdom.

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Alan Seale's avatar

Thank you, Mark, I'm glad that it speaks to you. And it's so great to hear from you!

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Gabriella van Rooij's avatar

Such a fitting, practical addition to your previous blog "Blessed Emptiness". Thanks you Alan.

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Alan Seale's avatar

Thank you, Gabriella. It continues to be such an amazing journey!

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Lidwien Opheij's avatar

Exactly and precise! Thank you Alan, i will invite life in stead of trying to stay on my path. Life wants me as I am and i will focus on that…💕

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Alan Seale's avatar

Thank you, Lidwien, I'm glad you found this post helpful!

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Jane Marquardt's avatar

Love the river analogy. The concept of walking beside it for a change is powerful. If you jump right back in, the river can quickly turn into something akin to trying to drink from a firehose. Thanks Alan!

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Alan Seale's avatar

Yes, indeed. And the river is full of everything and everyone else, their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It's a lot! We can often be even more effective in life walking beside what is happening--walking beside the river--rather than being in it.

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Jo Boniszewski's avatar

Again soothing. Thank you.

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Alan Seale's avatar

Thank you, Jo, I'm glad it is helpful.

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