The Power of Community
I have to say that I’m loving the idea of intentional community nowadays. In many ways it has to do with the same sort of community I have envisioned for IMU. I love the idea of like-minded people coming together in friendship toward a mutual goal of making ourselves and the world into the best versions of ourselves. It seems that much of our world is running backwards, is energetically reversed per se. Most of the time, making money means hurting others or using resources to do it. I love that IMU is set up to reward the good we do in the world by adding more to the world instead of taking from it. I love that people come away better from the experience instead of depleted or defeated. It makes me feel good about what I “do” in the world.
My month at Camp Etna has been really awakening and thought-provoking. The community has been life-giving and it reminds me of just how important our relationships are. Capitalism has taught us to be independent, to take advantage of instead of work together. Survival of the fittest rules the day and kindness takes second place. But in real community, we must consider the needs of each other in a way that goes beyond the responsibility of family and melds into the desire to care for others without a NEED or expectation to do so. It is “given freely” like feathers from a peacock. Love, help, guidance, they are all part of the package of community.
I must say that I have really enjoyed my time at Camp Etna. I saw the most kick-ass table-tipping demonstration, had some great readings all of which reminded me of what important work we are doing with IMU, and met some amazing people. I also enjoyed truly soul healing alone time, which can never be underestimated.
I was so moved by the experience that I put together a little video about the camp that I thought you might enjoy. It makes a great vacation destination if you’re thinking about something wonderful to do that is “not just a vacation but a life-changing experience.” I’m actually thinking that it would be really cool to do some classes here for IMU students… Let me know what you think of the idea. I’d love to hear from you.
Enjoy the video.
This is lovely! Thanks for taking the time to put the video together. Camp Etna reminds me of Chatauqua in Boulder, CO but with a spiritual twist. I would enjoy taking an IMU class there.
I’ll have to check into Chatauqua. Sounds lovely. We are thinking very seriously about making classes available for IMU students at Etna. I’ll be sure to keep you all informed.
I was going to ask you what you were getting out of your time there but this post and your video say it all. Keep being inspired!