Under the Umbrian Sun

Early October I was able to spend 10 days in Umbria, Italy at a stunning villa nestled between an olive grove and vineyard with 10 amazing women. It was a continuation of a writing course we experienced together earlier in the year. When our writing journey began we started off as strangers, but through our initial awkwardness, empathy, laughter, tears, joy, vulnerability, and profound moments together, we created a lifelong bond and sisterhood. We are all on the path to our own personal transformation.

Each day was started with a morning ceremony that included daily messages, reflections, candle lighting, hands on heart, and triangle breaths. Then one by one, we shared something of appreciation. Many contributions brought tears to our eyes, some were courageous while others had us laughing our asses off. Once our morning ritual was complete we gathered around the table for a delicious meal together.

Throughout the week, we held space for one another, cried and laughed together, shared our unspoken truths, as well as our fears, and our dreams. We wrapped our arms around each other in sorrow, rejoiced in the breakthroughs and cheered loudly for our victories.

Each day we had reflective writing assignments and towards the end of the week we would each share a gem about our life, and would witness and honor one another’s stories. I was struggling with what I would share and had no idea what direction I would take. One free afternoon, I opened my patio door and stepped out into the warm, sunny weather, spread a blanket on the grass under a tree, and laid down with my face towards the sky. As I looked up through the branches of the olive tree, the sun was shining on my face, and it came to me. The story I was meant to share came rushing in.

For the next hour I put pen to paper and wrote. A story that was always mine but I hadn’t written in words nor said out loud. Later, as I read my work, there wasn’t a peep in the room. My beautiful, sacred circle was holding space for me, my words and my tender heart. They accepted all of me; the broken, the devastated, and the brave.

This post is ultimately not about my specific story, but rather the strength, wisdom, and grace each one of the 10 amazing women were willing to share we me. They accepted me for me…..nothing else. I was enough. That October afternoon, under the Umbrian sun helped me work through a place I had been stuck. A story I’ll save for another day. Find your community, and create lasting connections with those that meet you where you are, listen, lift you up, and help you see through the dark. Then do the same for them.

xoxox…..Sheryl

PS….This is dedicated to my gorgeous Umbrian Cappuccinis

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