At last, we are able to return to in person sessions and we are delighted to be offering them in our brand-new Gathering Space at 156 Marion St.
The last month has been consumed with all the things that a move entails; a sense of excitement, adaptation to a new space, letting go of old ways of being and inviting new ones. It’s one of those times in life that can feel bittersweet. Which also happens to be the way I feel about the change from summer to autumn in Manitoba. I love it and also want to hold onto our always too short summer.
One of the ways that I have learned to adapt more easily to change is finding something that I can look forward to during the transition. It gives me a little moment of pleasure that I can count on, whatever I’m feeling that day.
Take a little time to read through our offerings for 2023/24. There are a number of new opportunities to be discovered and, I hope, offer you a moment of pleasure, too. We want to build a core of people who want compassion to flourish in Manitoba. There is a monthly speaker series beginning on September 27th with a special session to honour Truth and Reconciliation. We are also beginning a Community of Compassion where friends, allies, and network partners join forces to address issues of social justice.
The contemplative stream is very important to us. We look at it as a skill to be developed that can support people during moments of difficulty. Our ability to skillfully respond in these moments can reduce the suffering that we encounter in our lives and prevent suffering for others though our own actions. This year we are delighted to be offering two four-night retreats – more details to come!
Please come to see us, tell us what you love, what you would like to see more of, and what you think might be valuable for us to add in the future. Our work is for our community, and this is an invitation to join us in discovering compassion in Manitoba.
Jennifer Kilimnik
Director, Compassion and Culture