“Come Home to Wisdom” retreat organized by Doorway to Joy

The recent "Come Home to Wisdom" retreat at the Dar-e-Mehr was an event to remember. Dolat Bolandi and Armita Dalal planned a wonderful evening for all the attendees which included a yoga class, an interactive talk, a potluck, and a drum circle. The yoga class encouraged everyone to stretch, breathe deeply, and focus the mind on the present. Afterwards many of us commented on how different our bodies felt before and after the experience, as we left feeling physically lighter. Snacks followed and participants had the opportunity to meet new people from the community and catch up with friends.

Dolat then led a discussion about approaching life with an open heart, during which we were encouraged to think about our own lives and reflect on our emotions in response to different life events. Next, we ate dinner and enjoyed a good conversation. Finally, Amir from Amir’s Music School led a drum circle. He brought instruments and guided all of us through different rhythms and songs, some of which were prayers sung to a melody. Improvisation was encouraged and the group worked together to create an atmosphere in which each person could get into the music in their own manner. Overall, the retreat provided space for each individual in attendance to reflect, open their mind in a new way, and decompress. What stood out to me most was not the events of the evening, but the open-heartedness of the members of our community.

I was able to meet many new friends and create meaningful connections which I know will last. Across generations and across communities, we found common ground in our values and positive attitudes. I am proud to be part of such a vibrant community of loving, welcoming, and warm people.