I found Common Awakening at a point in my life when I thought it might be time to end a treasured career of 35 years. I longed for an elusive change that had to do with finding meaning, but I couldn’t identify what the “it “ was I was seeking. As a trained professional, my tendency is to learn more skills, but I knew the answer wouldn’t come from didactic teaching. I had made profound life shifts over the past few years in my work with Common Awakening, but I could feel something more was calling to me. I wanted to open into a larger experience of spirit. I’d learned to follow energy and trust my inner knowing. I entered the retreat hoping that I was crossing a threshold, even if I wasn’t sure what that threshold was.  

My answer came in the most ordinary way, not with the bells and whistles I had once envisioned.  I found myself saying out loud and to the universe, “Please let me receive guidance." I experienced a different quality of centeredness which reflected a silent and still presence I was cultivating. What amazed me was that Annie & Annmarie offered a specific reflection for me, which was then spontaneously and synchronously reflected by others!  I began hearing the message over and over: at a casual conversation during breakfast, on a walk with another participant, in our group sharing.  In each instance, those offering the message were completely unaware of what I needed to hear. The confirmation simply arrived. I began feeling something solidifying within me that I could tangibly take away from this transformative retreat. I see this as an acknowledgement that I am being guided and supported on my journey. I trust this fully. 

I am extremely grateful to Annie and Annmarie and this community. I am able to witness others’ growth and transformation. This helps me integrate my own experiences, sensing from a wider perspective. “I” am part of a “we”. I have a growing clarity of something larger leading my life. I receive confirmation of this every day. The retreat weekend amplified my movement into this new and profoundly beautiful space. I am no longer seeking “out there” for what comes next. Living into this awareness is my answer.   

-Pamela Pressman