The Power of Four
Over the last few years, I’ve been collaborating with three other life coaches to create workshops and trainings. In January, one of my colleagues had a vision and feeling we should plan a women’s retreat weekend and found the perfect venue to host the event. She’d been communicating with the owner of a bed and breakfast and within a few weeks, we had booked an appointment.
As the four of us arrived, then sat and shared our vision with the owner, she seemed thrilled we’d be hosting a women’s retreat. As she gave us a tour and as we explored the space we all had the same…..”we gotta make this happen” feeling. The energy in the room as we envisioned the experience was electric to say the least; we were giddy as we looked at our calendars and provided a few options. Once the four of us had a chance to talk it over, we would be in contact.
Our first planning meeting was met with enthusiasm for the experience we would provide. The date was set and confirmed with the owner and the deposit was paid to hold the space. We were on our way…..YIKES, no one had ever hosted a women’s retreat before, but with the strengths we each brought to the table, we were confident it would be successful.
As the planning began, our programming changed several times based on the wants and needs of each coach. We met on a regular basis either in person or virtually. We usually began each meeting with a prayer. One evening about five or six weeks prior to the event, we were meeting in person at the library and like always, we reached across the table to connect hands and hearts and began with a prayer. We usually all shared in offering prayers of thanks and whatever was needed for the day, however, this time one of the coaches hadn’t spoken and was eerily quiet. Someone said, “Amen” and with heads still bowed, she began to explain her heart was not in hosting the retreat, she’d been appeasing us in the fear of missing out, but had a bucket list opportunity come up on the same weekend and she felt called to attend. Her voice was shaky as she feared rejection once she broke the news. Without hesitiation and great love, we gave her the support she needed to pull away and do what was best for her. Each one of understood even though at first sadness filled the room.
Even though we were sad she’d no longer be a part of the retreat, we gave her the gift of true friendship. We loved her enough to let her go where her heart was leading. She knew where it was calling and was brave enough to admit it to herself and us. It was a night of true grace and understanding and I’m proud of her for following her heart.
Although, we’re no longer the power of four, hosting workshops and retreats, we will remain steadfast in our friendship and love. Here’s to continued strength and the new power of three, I love these ladies. Let your friendships be built on grace and acceptance.
xoxox…..Sheryl