RETURNING WHOLE TO A CIVILIAN WORLD
- Nature as a Mirror to the Veteran Soul -
SUMMER RETREAT & MIRRORING WORKSHOP
If we cannot listen like a mirror, we cannot reflect back the wholeness of the story -- the body, soul, mind and spirit of the teller. The best stories are about human nature -- that is, the human of us which is nature in her basic manifestations as physical, psychical, rational, and spiritual. One of the best ways to create a story is to put people in contact with nature. - Larry Hobbs
THE WHOLE STORY, THE WHOLE VETERAN
Overview: You have been initiated into the largest warfighting culture that has ever existed. The identity, purpose, and belonging of your previous life were rooted out and transformed into Soldier, Sailor, Airman, and Marine, with strict protocol and ritual organizing and shaping your life from sunup to sundown for years on end. The sacrifice and lasting impacts on your body, heart, mind, and spirit -- and on your loved ones -- could never truly be understood, and required daily suppression of all that you are and all that you have carried. You were rebuilt by the DOD to be a human doing, not a being, and the abrupt transition to a disorganized civilian world that cannot see, hear, or understand you can leave even the strongest among us searching for solid ground.
Veteran Rites provides the space, the community, and the practices to begin reclaiming and remembering your authentic self -- with nature as your guide and mirror -- so that you can find your footing and live the future worthy of your sacrifice. This immersive retreat and mirroring workshop takes you on a journey of personal discovery while building the reflective listening skills that deepen your relationship with nature, your peers, and your loved ones.
Mirroring is a foundational practice in the Veteran Rites wilderness experience and one of the most powerful peer support skills you can carry home. It gives the veteran the experience of being truly seen and heard -- without being counseled, fixed, or advised. This kind of witnessing widens the lens on your own story and invites a deeper understanding of who you are and what you carry.
On Thursday, August 27th at 4:00pm we will cross the line into Returning Whole in a Civilian World. We will spend three nights together at the Menucha Retreat and Conference Center in the Columbia River Gorge. We will begin by acquainting and reacquainting ourselves with the Four Shields of Human Nature -- our Map of Wholeness. The days that follow will be a mix of teachings, story, council practice, and time alone in nature. You will learn to draw out your own story and the stories of those around you, to use council as a tool for self and group empowerment, and to listen and respond in a way that truly honors the whole person in front of you.
Who Should Attend: Transitioning Service Members, Veterans, Partners, Spouses, and Peer Supporters who are ready to go deeper into their own return -- and to help others do the same. This gathering is for those seeking to reclaim their True Identity, Purpose, and Belonging.
This workshop goes to deep and real places. Everyone present is responsible for helping hold a container that welcomes home the full diversity of our military family with love and honor. Veteran Rites will reach out to all who register to make sure this experience is the right fit for where you are in your journey right now.
Mandatory Preparation Sessions: All attendees are required to participate in both online prep sessions prior to the retreat. These sessions are scheduled for Wednesday, August 19th and Thursday, August 20th, 5-7pm PDT, online. They are how we build the community before we arrive -- so we can make the most of our time together from the moment we cross the threshold.
What to Bring: We will spend significant time outdoors, so bring layers and waterproof gear -- rain pants and a rain jacket are strongly recommended. Late August in the Gorge can surprise you. Bring a notebook or journal if you like to capture your experience, and feel free to bring a musical instrument if it is part of how you show up. Personal items that carry meaning or bring you strength are always welcome. Plan to bring your own toiletries and any extra blankets or pillows that help you sleep well.
Meals and Lodging: All meals and lodging are provided by Menucha and paid for by Veteran Rites. Menucha is attentive to allergies and dietary needs -- please let us know yours when you register. To serve as many participants as possible, some room sharing may be requested. Rooms are grouped by gender with shared bath facilities, and ADA-accessible private rooms are available. Special room considerations can be arranged on a case-by-case basis.
Transportation: Veteran Rites covers the full cost of the experience -- lodging, meals, and guides. If transportation is a barrier, Veteran Rites will discuss with you directly how we can support you in attending.
Space is Limited. To register, visit the link below. Priority is given in the order received.
