Tomorrow I begin another Men’s Retreat. It’s in the San Rafael Swell, through terrain like what is in the above photo. It’s a four day trip, hosted by the brilliant Lucas and Marshall of Unplugged — I love the way they encourage and host rewilding. Camping. Long hikes. Circle. Stories. Campfires. Questions that matter. It’s men seeking meaning and purpose together. It’s land that teaches, tests, invites, appreciates. As land so often does.
Themes and intentions often arise for me when a gathering is closer. This morning, that theme feels near and clarifying. “Slow & Steady.” That’s the one I’ll carry with me in 8 mile hikes and climbs. Slow & Steady is a physical requirement for me, among much younger men. I hold no illusions about that. My body is more suited these days for Slow & Steady. Tortoise, not Hare.
But here’s the thing that I notice this morning. This theme isn’t just for this men’s retreat and for these demanding hikes in these learning-filled days. This theme, Slow & Steady, has been beckoning to me for quite some time, over the last few years in particular. My default fulfillments of speed and efficiency, that have served me very well in my life, haven’t felt, well…, as fulfilling. It’s as though my psyche, not just my body, has been hungering for its new mode. Slow & Steady. Which is to say, clear. And purposeful. And with less fret. And with more kindness. And with more integration. And with more celebration.
And, and, and.
Slow & Steady. I’m grateful for the clarity. I’m grateful for other men leading. And inviting what is real in these days to come.
As ever, your reflections invite me to pause and ask a beautiful question of my own. Who, what and where matter most right now?
On we go Jeremy.
I’m glad for your thoughtful ways.