This past weekend was to have been the April 2020 retreat at Idlewyld B&B in Lakeside, Ohio. Due to the pandemic, the event was cancelled, but thanks to 21st century technology, seven of us were able to meet and have a couple of hours together via Zoom. My husband is always up on the latest technology so he encouraged me to try it. We met on Friday for just over an hour and then again on Saturday. It wasn’t the same as being at Lakeside, but it was a connection. We felt a kinship and common bond. We listened to each other, respected each other’s feelings, and for the moment, didn’t feel alone. I now have a face to put with each woman and will appreciate even more when we are able to retreat together.

I am very grateful to be alive today, pandemic or not, at a time when we can see and hear each other over the internet. I am grateful for a warm home, food to eat, eyes to read, ears to hear music, and eyes to see flowers blooming everywhere, reminding us spring comes no matter what. I am also grateful to have electricity for the internet that allows me to see and connect with so many of you, my family, and my friends.

I have added a music track below from a singer/songwriter who performed at Lakeside’s Hoover Auditorium two summers ago. It seems so appropriate now. I added it to Stretching Forward Retreats FaceBook page but for those of you not on FaceBook, I wanted you to hear it also. Take time to listen and then, take a few minutes to think about what you are grateful for in the last week. You may be surprised at how much you have to be thankful for. Stay safe and keep stretching.