Comments from the PNW Gathering

As everyone knows who has attended a Gathering the experience is different for everyone, and is hard to put into words, so I'll just share some of the comments from those attending our Whidbey Island Retreat.

What I learned about myself as a HSP:

• I learned that I have evolved in my understanding and acceptance of being HSP. I feel like I actually even have a little bit of wisdom for other HPSs.
• I learned it was okay to be me, and I'm worth taking care of ... a very, very important lesson.
• I found that I could relax and be myself around other HSPs ...in fact, it was the first time in years I found I could be fully myself without the overlay of protective "armor" I normally wear just to get by the in the world.
• I learned that my constellation of skills, talents, and interests is not that unusual for an HSP. I saw my interests and passions reflected beautifully all around me, in other HSPs. It was very heart warming.
• I learned I need to take better care of myself. I saw people doing it in the midst of all the excitement and that inspires me to do it better in my daily life.
• I learned the way I am is okay, i.e. getting over stimulated, being slower and indecisive is part of the processing package. I have learned to be a better advocate for myself.
• I learned there is more to my person than just the trait of HSP. We are whole people with many other different qualities. Just focusing on the HSP trait could be limiting.
• I learned my gifts are strong and valuable and my insights are to be trusted. I'm truly fortunate soul to be experiencing life in this sensitive body.
• I learned I could possibly gain back the joy I used to have by reconnecting with others who understand and accept me.

What would I tell others?

• I would tell people it's so unlike any other type of conference or retreat - that it has to be experienced to be appreciated. It is a safe and accepting atmosphere that was transformational in my life.
• The quality and maturity level of the attendees was unusually high - what a blessing to have so many conversation partners of such depth and richness.
• Spend several days with others who have the same traits as you. It is amazing to be in a circle of HSP who all listen, who don't interrupt, who ask thoughtful questions. It was a great time to connect with myself, feel good about myself and go back into the world with more coping techniques and affirmations -and to take more down time for my own self care.
• Come, join, observe. It is enriching and comforting to be among like souls.
• Have no expectations; be open to the improbable, and yes, of course, "focus on needs, not approval."
• You're not alone anymore.
• I expected to change my whole perspective about myself: from invalid to valid. This new seed is planted and now I must learn to nurture it so it will blossom fully.
• Be ready to meet yourself in so many others.
• I am still processing the delicate sparkly web of understanding I have gained. ...I may even have finally found place to call my own.
• The energy this year was different from last year's group. I think this keeps things fresh, for the returning participants.
• Try not to have too many expectations, going in or upon departure. The best part does not lend itself to simple words - it takes time to soak in.
• Connecting was the greatest thing for me, both with myself and others. Getting to withdraw from daily routine, and relax away from work made the interior trip much easier for me...and brought me to reach a depth inside and share from heart and experiences.
  

What I liked:

• I liked all the down time, and ability to hike, sleep, and being able to skip activities with no pressure. Not only did I have people understand the need for quite, down time was actively encouraged. What a concept!
• Connecting was the greatest thing for me, both with myself and others. Getting to withdraw from daily routine, and relax away from work made the interior trip much easier for me...and brought me to reach a depth inside and share from heart and experiences.