September 12-September 15 with Brian Arnell

Throughout our lives we long to love ourselves more deeply and to feel connected with others. Instead, we often contract, fear intimacy and suffer a bewildering sense of separation. Spiritual practice, by uprooting our personal mythologies of isolation, uncovers the radiant, joyful heart within each of us and manifests this  radiance to the world.           ~ Sharon Salzberg ~

Our practice will be simple; being with the breath, paying loving attention to whatever is arising in each moment. When we experience difficult moments and react with aversion, we distance ourselves from the very experience we seek to know well. When we experience difficult moments and respond with loving attention, the doors of perception open, and insight arises.

We train ourselves to be conscious of the flow of experience, each moment a new arrival.

We train ourselves to greet each new arrival with care and love.

Each person will have an opportunity to meet with Brian individually, with a focus on what is arising in your practice. Together, we will answer questions and recognize your own developed wisdom.

We will have a full day schedule, practicing while sitting and walking, eating and resting - gently, with kindness and compassion.

        Some questions answered:

1.  How many people will be attending?  In order to provide adequate space for comfort in the meditation area (Firbank Library), we will be limiting the number of attendees to 24 (plus Brian). 
2. What is the timing?  We will start the retreat with a 6pm dinner on Thursday,  September 12, and end with lunch on Sunday, September 15.  BONUS: We will have use of the adjoining Art Studio on Sunday afternoon, post retreat.  Bring your art supplies!
3. What is the cost of retreat? - $440 for a single room, $410 for a shared room (there are a limited number of shared rooms). We are asking for a deposit to secure your registration. The cost covers overnights, all meals, coffee/tea service, and all of the time spent with Brian and the other retreatants. 
4. Where is the retreat?  Pendle Hill is a Quaker study, retreat, and conference center welcoming all for spirit-led learning and community.  Most of our time will be spent in the Firbank Building, located on the main campus in a beautiful setting, close to the dining area.  Click HERE for photos. The address is 338 Plush Mill Rd., Wallingford, PA 
5. Can I attend just a portion of the retreat?  This retreat is a full three night/day event so there is plenty of time to experience the benefit of a silent retreat. Springboard also offers one-day retreats and workshops, so look for that in the future.
6. Are scholarship funds available?  Yes, there are retreat funds available to help with the cost of the event.  Please contact Lori at info@springboardsangha.org
7. What are the accommodations? Our bedrooms will be in Firbank and Chace buildings.  Most of the rooms are single rooms with shared "family style" bathrooms.  
8. What if I have questions?  Please contact Lori Spadaro (admin) at info@springboardsangha.org