In Appreciation

If you’ve been reading my recent posts, you’ll know I co-hosted a weekend women’s retreat we titled, “Crazy Blessed.” One of the final activities scheduled made a big impact on the women, as well as the coaches. It was a way to show appreciation for one other.

For three days and two nights, 14 women came together to learn, reflect, create, connect and recharge. They opened up, shared their stories, shown their vulnerabilities and trusted it would be a safe place to expose their hearts. Even though the stories and circumstances were different, it was the familiar emotion that connected us as women, sisters, mothers, friends, aunts and daughters. We felt each other’s pain, sadness, forgiveness, joy, gratitude, grace and love, as we reflected on those moments in our our lives. We lifted each other up whenever needed and rejoiced in the victories.

After our morning yoga session and our final programming was complete, we gathered together, one last time in the sun room. Each woman was given a simple necklace made out of paper and yarn. The women were instructed to put the necklace on and spin it to their back.

The instructions for the appreciation necklace ceremony were given and each woman made their way around the room, making sure to write a simple note of appreciation for each woman. It was both humbling and fun to hear and watch the connections the 14 strangers had made over the last three days. There was love, laughter and friendship being built.

Once everyone completed the ceremony, each woman had a simple necklace filled with beautiful handwritten notes on both sides. As each woman read their special notes of appreciation, teardrops fell. Small words of kindness can be just what a person needs. We all want to feel loved, appreciated and seen.

We came to the retreat as strangers and left as a crazy blessed sisterhood. In appreciation for all the women brought to the table, including their experience, knowledge, vunerabilities, fears, uncertainties and open hearts, I applaud you and I see you…..you matter. We all matter.

xoxox…..Sheryl