Tag: meditation

Reflecting on Our Transformative Half-Day Writers Retreat

by Weam Namou, posted in Books, Communication, Consciousness, film, Spirituality, writing

Two weeks ago, on Saturday, May 3rd, I had the honor of hosting the Authors Guild Half-Day Writers Retreat at the beautiful Colombiere Conference and Retreat Center in Clarkston, Michigan. The event, co-led with the incredible Gethen Christine Morris, was as transformative as I had envisioned. Life has been busy since then—celebrating my 20th anniversary, flying to Vegas for a wedding that ended up being postponed, and preparing for the release of my 21st book—but today I’m pausing to reflect on the power of that gathering and the inspiration it brought to everyone involved.

The retreat was a reminder of the importance of renewing ourselves, reconnecting with our creative goals, and using spiritual tools to move forward in life and art. What made this event even more special was a touching announcement by Melanie Singer, who attended one of my earlier Path of Consciousness spiritual retreats (also at Colombiere). She shared that, thanks to the teachings she experienced, she recently published her children’s book, Martina’s Muy Bad Day (HarperCollins, February 4, 2025). Hearing how Melanie’s journey came full circle was a deeply gratifying moment, reaffirming why events like these are so meaningful.

The retreat was a beautifully structured journey to help writers reconnect with their creativity, refuel their spirit, and dedicate focused time to their craft. It unfolded beautifully, beginning with yoga and meditation led by Gethen Christine Morris, whose shamanic practice brought clarity and inspiration. I followed with a writing workshop, helping participants overcome creative blocks and breathe life into their stories. Over lunch, connections deepened in a warm, supportive atmosphere, with ideas and encouragement flowing freely. A serene Walk & Write session in Colombiere’s natural beauty rounded out the day, leaving everyone inspired, recharged, and ready to create.

This retreat served as a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing both our spiritual and creative selves. If you couldn’t join us, there’s another incredible opportunity on the horizon: the Spring Gathering 2025 at the Colombiere Conference and Retreat Center.

Happening from May 29 – June 1, 2025, this event is open to everyone and follows a “Free or Pay What You Can” model. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in shamanic teachings, meditations, and deep self-exploration. Whether you’re seeking renewal, inspiration, or clarity, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, empowered, and ready to embrace your journey ahead.

For details, visit the event page: Spring Gathering 2025 in Michigan.

As writers, creatives, and just as human beings, we often get caught up in deadlines, expectations, and the noise of everyday life. Events like these remind us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the deeper purpose behind our work. Whether it’s through yoga, writing, or simply walking in nature, there’s always a way to rekindle the creative spark within.

To those who joined us on May 3rd, thank you for bringing your energy and openness. To those considering joining us in the future, don’t wait—give yourself the gift of time to write, reflect, and recharge.

Looking forward to writing and growing together!

Love & Blessings,

Weam

The Keys to Dynamic Living: A Journey with Jane Keene

by Weam Namou, posted in chaldeans, Communication, community, Consciousness, Spirituality

Life has a way of bringing people from all walks of life together to help them achieve their goals and dreams. My connection with Jane Keene is a beautiful example of this truth. I’ve had the privilege of knowing Jane for over a decade, first meeting her through Lynn’s school, where I was both a student and later a mentor. Her dedication to creating beauty in the world has always inspired me, and I was honored to see her at my recent film premiere of Pomegranate in Los Angeles.

Today, Jane is continuing the legacy of Lynn’s teachings as a mentor and facilitator. She is leading an exciting new online course, The Keys to Dynamic Living, which will be offered for free to those who register for the end-of-May retreat that I’m leading. This series is thoughtfully designed to give participants the tools, insights, and community support needed to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth.

Who Is Jane Keene?

Jane Keene is a deeply grounded and accomplished individual whose journey and work continue to inspire countless people. Born and raised in England, Jane earned her Master’s degree in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of San Francisco. Her background in these fields, combined with her practical approach to personal growth, makes her a strong leader and mentor in spiritual teachings.

Jane has had a diverse career, including serving as the administrator for Lynn’s school for 10 years, mentoring students, and working with the Kindred Spirits program. Today, in addition to facilitating courses like The Keys to Dynamic Living, Jane is actively involved in helping seniors remain in their homes through a village program that offers medical rides, grocery trips, and small home projects. Her focus on community and service demonstrates her commitment to creating practical, positive change in the world.

Jane’s approach to shamanism and personal growth is anything but impractical or overly mystical. She believes in the tangible, grounded aspects of these teachings—recognizing that everything is alive and interconnected, and that beauty can be found in all aspects of life. Her philosophy emphasizes hard work, dedication, and a deep respect for the natural world, making her teachings accessible and transformative for people from all walks of life.

I recently had the chance to speak with Jane about her work, her journey, and the inspiration behind The Keys to Dynamic Living. Here are some highlights from our conversation:

“This course is really about continuing the work we did with Lynn,” Jane explained. “The teachings helped us uncover the things that shaped us, find another path, and develop into the people we were meant to be. I wanted to create something that could preserve that legacy and give others the tools to identify their purpose and bring it into the world. It’s about helping people grow into themselves and live with intention.”

Click Here to learn about the Workshop

As someone who has been shaped by Lynn’s teachings, I see this course as a continuation of a powerful legacy. It’s not just about learning—it’s about transformation, connection, and creating more beauty in the world. Whether you’re new to this path or have been walking it for years, The Keys to Dynamic Living offers a unique opportunity to deepen your journey.

Let’s continue to honor the age-old traditions of storytelling, community, and personal growth by embracing the tools and teachings that help us become the people we are meant to be.

Click here to learn more about the Self Love & Spiritual Opulence retreat in May!

Empowering Each Other Through Storytelling

by Weam Namou, posted in Books, chaldeans, Communication, community, Consciousness, film, Iraqi American, Pomegranate, Spirituality, TV Interviews, writing

Recently, I had the honor of being interviewed by Daniel Rosenstein of Ultimate Energy Coach. It was a powerful conversation that delved deeply into topics close to my heart: my film Pomegranate, my Native American teachings, my journey of healing through shamanism, and the empowerment of women through film.

I believe that healing is important because once you heal certain tramas, you naturally become a healer to others—simply by being yourself. This truth resonates deeply with me, as healing runs through my lineage. My ancestors—my father, grandfather, and my great-grandmother Maria—were all healers. It’s a calling that has been passed down through the generations, and I feel privileged to walk this path.

Interestingly, our connection came through a mutual friend, and we discovered a fascinating coincidence: Daniel’s mother was born in Iraq and left during the 1948 Jewish Exodus. I was born in Iraq as a Chaldean (Neo-Babylonians who still speak Aramaic) and my family left due to the country’s unsettling and oppressive ways. This shared understanding of exile and roots created a deeper connection.

Seven Generations Back, Seven Generations Forward

One of the most profound topics discussed was the importance of honoring both the past and the future. Like Native American teachings, our culture emphasizes doing things “seven generations back and seven generations forward.” The blessings we experience today are the result of our ancestors’ actions, and what we do now will shape the lives of our descendants. This perspective has always been a guiding force in my life and my work.

Pomegranate and the Power of Story

During the interview, I reflected on my recent trip to Los Angeles for the premiere of Pomegranate. While driving through areas like Hollywood, I learned from Uber drivers about the diversity of these neighborhoods—home to significant Jewish, Persian, and Armenian populations. It struck me how the Jewish community is often said to “rule Hollywood,” and I thought: that’s not a bad thing. They understand the power of storytelling.

I often question why our own community doesn’t invest in storytelling. Why don’t we support the art of telling our stories, of humanizing ourselves through authentic narratives? Creative expression is healing, while destruction only leads to pain. And it’s not like we lack talent—while casting for Pomegranate, we received thousands of portfolios from incredibly talented Middle Eastern actors.

Pomegranate

Breaking Labels and Finding Balance

Another key part of the discussion was about not putting labels on things. For example, shamanism is often misunderstood, yet it brought me closer to my Christian roots. After all, wasn’t Jesus a mystic, a healer, and someone who said, “You will do things greater than I”?

I also spoke about the importance of the men in my life who helped bring this project to life—my husband, who gave me the space to follow my dream, and incredible collaborators like Sam Sako, Scott Rosenfelt, Jamal Adams, Kevin Hewitt, and others. They stuck with this project and gave me strength when I felt like giving up.

This ties into one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from energy teachings: the importance of balancing the feminine and the masculine. Both energies are essential, and finding harmony between them is a cornerstone of healing.

Healing Through Creativity

Ultimately, our conversation came full circle to the idea that healing is inherently creative. By embracing creativity, we can transform not only ourselves but also the world around us. This is the heart of storytelling—connecting, humanizing, and healing.

I invite you to watch the full interview with Daniel Rosenstein here. Together, we explored the power of heritage, healing, and storytelling in ways that I hope will inspire you as much as they inspired me.

Chaldean Mysticism and Universal Wisdom

by Weam Namou, posted in chaldeans, Communication, community, Consciousness, Spirituality, writing

In a world that often equates opulence with material wealth, it is essential to remember that true opulence transcends the physical. It is about the richness of our connection to the divine, the depth of our understanding of universal laws, and the ability to live in harmony with the sacred forces that govern existence. As a Chaldean, I am deeply inspired by the ancient wisdom of my ancestors, who were renowned as astrologers, astronomers, mathematicians, and magicians. Their knowledge was not merely intellectual—it was soulful, mystical, and transformative.

The Legacy of Chaldean Wisdom

The Chaldeans, also known as the Neo-Babylonians, were pioneers in understanding the mathematical and cosmic principles that underpin the universe. According to Rhonda Byrne in The Secret, “The ancient Babylonians and their great prosperity have been well documented by scholars. They are also known for creating one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Through their understanding and application of the laws of the Universe, they became one of the wealthiest races in history.”

This profound legacy speaks to the Chaldean mastery of universal laws, which they saw not as abstract concepts but as living truths that could be applied to every aspect of life. They understood the sacred geometry of the cosmos, the rhythms of the stars, and the balance of energies that govern existence. Their wisdom was both scientific and spiritual, rooted in a deep reverence for the divine order.

Spiritual Opulence: A Modern Perspective

My teacher, Lynn V. Andrews, often spoke about “spiritual opulence,” a state where sacred wisdom becomes accessible to everyone, inviting us to connect deeply with the divine—however we define it. She described this era as the “time of the magical eye,” a moment in history when the veil between the physical and the spiritual is thinner than ever. In this time, nothing stands between us and the Great Spirit, God, Goddess, or the creative source of all beauty and abundance.

Spiritual opulence is about tapping into this divine connection and allowing it to transform every facet of our lives. It is not limited to religious practices or rituals; it is a way of being that integrates the mystical with the mundane. It is seeing the sacred in the ordinary and recognizing that the same universal laws that govern the stars also govern our thoughts, actions, and relationships.

The Science of Mysticism: Chaldean Contributions to Modern Understanding

The Chaldeans’ contributions to science and mysticism are a testament to their understanding of the universe as a unified whole. Their advancements in mathematics and astronomy were not separate from their spiritual practices; they were tools for understanding the divine order. For example:

  • Astrology and Astronomy: The Chaldeans were among the first to map the heavens, recognizing the influence of celestial bodies on earthly events. They saw astrology not as superstition but as a science that revealed the interconnectedness of the cosmos.
  • Mathematics: Chaldean mathematicians developed sophisticated systems for measuring time and space, including the 360-degree circle and the concept of zero. These innovations were rooted in their understanding of balance and harmony, principles that are essential to both mathematics and spirituality.
  • Magic and Mysticism: For the Chaldeans, magic was not about illusions or tricks—it was the art of aligning oneself with universal laws to manifest desired outcomes. This mystical practice was grounded in their deep knowledge of energy, intention, and the power of the human mind.

These ancient teachings remain profoundly relevant today. They remind us that the universe operates according to principles that are both scientific and spiritual, and that by understanding and applying these principles, we can create lives of abundance, harmony, and purpose.

An Invitation to Reflect and Connect

As I prepare to lead a retreat inspired by Lynn V. Andrews’ teachings and my Chaldean heritage, I invite you to reflect on the concept of spiritual opulence. Ask yourself:

✨ What does “spiritual opulence” mean to you?
✨ How do you experience connection with the divine in your daily life?
✨ What ancient wisdom or personal practices help you align with the universal laws of abundance and harmony?

This retreat is an opportunity to explore these questions together, blending the mystical teachings of my ancestors with the sacred wisdom of modern spirituality. It is a chance to step into the “time of the magical eye,” where nothing stands between us and the divine, and where we can co-create lives of beauty, creativity, and sacred abundance.

Let’s continue this journey of discovery, honoring the wisdom of the past while embracing the possibilities of the present. Together, we can embody the true meaning of spiritual opulence and align ourselves with the infinite potential of the universe.

💖 I look forward to exploring this sacred path with you. Click here to learn more!

Retreat: Self Love & Spiritual Opulence

by Weam Namou, posted in Books, Communication, Consciousness, Spirituality

Dear Friends,

After years of hosting The Path of Consciousness Retreat—a space for profound transformation and connection—I’m thrilled to announce a new chapter in this journey. This year, I have the honor of leading Self Love & Spiritual Opulence, a Lynn Andrews retreat, at the beautiful Colombiere Retreat Center, from May 29 to June 1, 2025.

This announcement feels especially meaningful today, as it’s my teacher Lynn V. Andrews’ birthday in heaven! I’m deeply grateful for all I’ve learned from her and her mentors—ancient teachings that have brought me closer to my own heritage and spiritual path. Lynn’s work has shaped my life in countless ways, and it’s a privilege to now share her teachings in this sacred gathering.

Self Love & Spiritual Opulence invites you to embark on a journey inward, to uncover the sacred space within—the “temple” and “lodges” of your heart. Together, we’ll quiet the mental chatter that obscures your true self, reconnect with your innate worthiness, and rediscover the awe and beauty of the universe. This is not about adopting rigid beliefs, but about diving into their deeper essence—into that universal unity where all things come together.

We’ll explore the sacred void, that profound connection to the Great Spirit, which each of us carries in our own unique way. Our time together is focused on helping you find your personal gateway to fully experience this divine relationship, surrounded by beauty, wisdom, and love.

One of the most special parts of this retreat will be the Cave of Mother Wisdom Dream Lodge, a sacred space prepared for this teaching. There, you’ll experience a guided meditation created by Lynn herself, immersing yourself in the energy of her voice and her profound wisdom.

This retreat is a continuation of the sacred work I’ve done in years past, but it also feels like something entirely new—a chance to honor Lynn’s teachings while stepping forward as a leader in this tradition. It’s a joy to gather again after the long pause brought by COVID and to share this transformative experience with you.

I hope you’ll join me for this incredible journey of self-love and spiritual opulence.

Click here for details and registration! https://lynnandrews.com/pages/spring-gathering-2025-in-michigan-details

With love and gratitude,

Weam

And remember to watch my recently released film, Pomegranate! https://www.freestyledigitalmedia.tv/film/pomegranate/

Happy International Women’s Day ❤️

by Weam Namou, posted in Books, chaldeans, Consciousness

Dear readers,

Today the Detroit Historic Designation Advisory Board visited the Chaldean Cultural Center! It was a wonderful visit that included a tour of the Chaldean Museum, beautiful dialogue, and of course chai and tekhratha (meat and cheese pastries)!

The board is using Underrepresented Communities Grant from the park service to fund an historic property survey of Detroit sites related to Arab and Chaldean community history. Based on community feedback, a site related to Arab and Chaldean history will become a listed place in the National Register.

During the tour, I shared with them, as I share with everyone who visits the museum, the story of Enheduanna, the first writer in recorded history. The daughter of King Sargon, she was a princess, priestess, and poet. I also shared the story of Gula, the goddess of healing, and Ninkasi, the goddess of beer, and the list goes on and on, and all are included in my book Mesopotamian Goddesses: Unveiling Your Feminine Power.

“Have you posted about these women today?” a lady asked. “It’s International Women’s Day!”

“No, I haven’t,” I said.

“You should!”

“Women were oppressed for a long time, and men were not,” another women else said. “That’s why there isn’t a day designated for men..”

So, here I am, for the first time in five months, writing a blog post, a post to give gratitude to and honor all the women in my life who have raised and supported me. To recognize the women of ancient times which history tried to silence. To be thankful for living in a time and place where people want to hear and uplift the voices of women, those living and those of our past.

To learn more about Mesopotamian Goddesses, click here:

The True Path of Consciousness

by Weam Namou, posted in community, Consciousness, Spirituality, writing

Sometimes Spirit gives us a little nudge and sometimes spirit gives us a big nudge when we are not following the true path of consciousness. I moved through my blocks in an unusual way for me. Along the way I found something that could lead me into living a more fulfilling life on all levels, especially helping me with my writing career. I found the four-year Mystery School, led by New York Times bestselling author and mystic Lynn V. Andrews. Eight years later, I’m still closely involved with Lynn’s teachings.

IMG_8334 (3)

Teri Williams interviewed me recently on her show Soulful Living about my experience in Lynn’s school.  Some clients describe Teri as a “Shaman for business.” She also works as a Reiki Master and Shamanic Practitioner assisting others to release and shift that which no longer serves their highest good. That’s why she invited me on her show. She realizes the importance of these teachings which have transformed my life so much that I’ve created an opportunity where others can do the same through the Path of Consciousness, a spiritual and writing conference and retreat which takes place during the first week of October.

The Path of Consciousness is an idea born from a little spiritual hideaway in the Riviera Maya, Mexico where shamans perform a Mayan ceremony using a Temazcal steam bath. This relaxing mystical old-age rite is good for the soul and mixes a spiritual journey with an encounter with the basic elements of our planet: water, fire, earth, and wind.

Similarly to the Temazcal steam bath in the Riviera Maya, this community is about reconnecting to our inner power, healing and transforming ourselves, and creating a better world for our families and communities.

A number of medical schools such as Columbia University now have Narrative Medicine master’s program, recognizing the power that practices such as the art of storytelling provides for people to heal and grow.

New Year's Resolution, a Babylonian Tradition2

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-path-of-consciousness-with-weam-namou/id648639542?i=1000450909380

To learn more about the retreat, visit http://www.ThePathofConsciousness.com

Conversations in Silence

by Weam Namou, posted in community, Spirituality, writing

Narenda (Nick) was a customer at a family video store I managed for 12 years, called Video Castle. He would often have long conversations with me about God, meditation, and how to live a healthy and well-balanced life. He eventually invited me to his meditation group where I met interesting people from all backgrounds who were in professional fields and dedicated to spiritual growth and connections. Originally from India, Narendra was an engineer so his practical concepts were easy to understand.

“True spirituality is simple, contemporary and practical,” he would say. “It never loses the yardstick of common sense.” 

He introduced me to life-changing books such as Conversations with God and Daughter of Fire. He later wrote his own book, Conversations in Silence, which is a diary of three years which reveals his transition from a fairly typical, stressed-out businessman to a blissful, loving man eager to share his newly spiritual gifts. 

Conversations in Silence

To learn more about Conversations in Silence, click here:

The book focus on his experiences with spiritual master, Mother Meera. Narendra met Mother Meera through a picture. He noticed something extraordinary loving and mesmerizing about this young Indian lady’s big eyes. He learned that she lived in Germany and hoped that one day he would get to meet her. That opportunity came when his work sent him on an assignment in Germany.

Born in a small village in India, she allegedly had her first samadhi, a state of complete spiritual absorption, at the age of six, which lasted for a whole day. When she was 12, her uncle met her for the first time and was convinced that the girl had already appeared to him in the form of visions. He came to believe that she is the Diving Mother and started to take care of her, allowing her to unfold her inner experiences. In 1981 she made her first trip to West Germany, where she settled with her uncle. She married a German in 1982.

Mother Meera.jpg

Mother Meera is an embodiment of the Divine Feminine, the Divine Mother on earth. She gives thousands of visitors her unique blessing of Darshan – in silence – and teaches the unity of all religions. Everyone can go their own ways. It is only important to be connected with the light (the personal spiritual role model) every day by praying, reading or meditating. She doesn’t charge any money for her work and she will not give lectures. Her reported task on Earth was in calling down a dynamic light-force from the Supreme (Paramatman – the supreme Self) in collaboration with other saints and diving beings, as she says, making spiritual progress on earth easier. About this light she says, “Like electricity, the light is everywhere, but one must know how to activate it. I have come for that.” 

Narendra’s accounts in this book, his determination to attain enlightenment, are inspiring. After work as an engineer, he is anxious to drive for hours to sit – even if briefly – in front of Mother Meera. One wonders how this world would be if we gave as much attention to our spiritual growth as we did to the physical and mental aspects of our lives.

In her presence he had numerous supernatural experiences, including many healings. When fully convince, he accepted Yogananda as his Spiritual Master. Through Mother Meera’s help, he was put on fast track and given many spiritual gifts. Most of his spiritual education came in the form of pictures during meditations. One of the gifts is his ability to measure a person’s consciousness level. As a Perceptor, Narendra has the ability to quickly transform people of all faiths and Masters, as ordered by the Divine. In his workshops, he uses everyday language, graphics, and common-sense approach. 

He notes in his book: Reading holy books is a great; the practice of prescribed values comes next. Beyond a point, an individual spiritual journey is so unique that copying someone else’s path alone will not help. During the advanced stage, one cannot join a spiritual club and expect faster results. This journey has to be completed alone just like a surgeon performing a surgery himself. During training, however, a surgeon must be in the company of other experts. Similarly, the spiritual journey requires that we accept our unique true-self once we have been “normalized.”

Here’s a video where Narendra talks about meditation and he holds workshops on some Saturdays in the mornings at the Rochester Library.

Meditation as a Creative Tool

by Weam Namou, posted in community, Consciousness, Spirituality, writing

 

The mind of a writer is busy with what they weren’t able to write yesterday, what they need to write today, and what stories they have to complete before their time is up on this earth. Our modern-day lifestyles are filled with lists of to-dos: duties to attend to; places to go; dreams to fulfill; and on and on. Meditation is truly a great tool that can help you become the wonderful writer you’re meant to be.

Meditation has been important to me on the mat and off the mat. It has helped me navigate through my writing career, giving me clarity of thought, and the energy and inspiration necessary for the task of completing a book, then another and another. In some cases, it can be a remedy for writers block.

But meditation, probably as old as human civilization, is not reserved for writers or other creative activities. A 2012 study published in The American Journal of Psychiatry followed 114 adults for ten years and showed that those with strong spiritual beliefs had only one-fourth the risk for major depression compared to non-spiritual adults. The researchers behind the study are now looking into how the brain creates spiritual experiences. Yale and Columbia University published their findings in Cerebral Cortex.

Author and neuroscience professor Marc N. Potanza, Ph.D. of Yale University’s Yale Child Study wrote “Spiritual experiences are robust states that may have profound impacts on people’s lives. Understanding the neural bases of spiritual experiences may help us better understand their roles in resilience and recovery from mental health and addictive disorders.”

These studies are taking place in various universities across the United States, including here in Michigan. Heather Rae is a yoga instructor, meditation coach, energy and body worker and ordained minister/priestess. Her meditation practice is being studied at Wayne State Medical School. Heather’s studio, Little Lotus, is in Ferndale, where she teaches her signature style Akasha Yoga along with other traditional styles, meditation, wellness workshops and offers body and energy work one-on-one with clients.

When I was looking for someone to lead the meditation workshop at The Path of Consciousness spiritual and writing retreat, a friend referred me to Heather, said she was great in this field. On her website page, https://www.heatherraemagic.com, she writes, “My love of yoga, meditation, magic, and connecting to the Divine led me to create my own style, Akasha yoga – a divine flow centered around nature, with a balance of lunar energy stepping into your grace with fluidity and fiery solar en into your own power. This ritual on your mat works to guide you into your true self – the self that’s luminescent, connected to the entire universe, and where anything is possible.”

Heather Rae 3.jpg

You don’t even have to sit down to clear your mind. Taking a mindfulness stroll is just as effective. That’s why I love my daily walks, where I connect with my breathing, listen to the birds, the sound of the wind, the rustling of leaves, occasional barking dogs, children playing, or people quarrelling inside their homes. Each walk, like everything in life, gives much unexpected insight.

Meditation lets you see with a new perception, and helps you address the different areas in your life. Especially in today’s noisy world, it’s really important to unplug from the noise and find ways to go within. Songwriter Naomi Judd said, “Solitude is creativity’s best friend, and solitude is refreshment for our souls.”

Has your soul received its refreshment today?

On her website, Heather lists a number of ways that meditation and other spiritual tools that are beneficial. For instance, she describes how an abundance mentality opens us to new possibilities and leads to creativity. By contract, a mindset grounded in scarcity is restrictive, which can make us feel anxious and fearful Meditation and the use of affirmations help shift the mindset from scarcity to abundance. She also provides free guided meditations so visit her at https://www.heatherraemagic.com/ to find if there’s something there for you. 

One of the Best-Kept Secrets

by Weam Namou, posted in community, Consciousness, Spirituality, writing

One beautiful sunny morning in March 2014, I drove to Colombiere Conference and Retreat Center to cover a story for The Chaldean News about a women’s Lenten retreat. It was a Friday and my son, a preschooler, didn’t have school that day. One of the directors of the retreat encouraged me to bring him along so I did.

Colombiere is nestled on acres of towering pines and oaks in Clarkston, Michigan. I remember upon entering the long road that leads to the building, I felt a sudden disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Inside, my son stopped to view some of the statues and look out the window at the walking trails and gardens. We took the elevators to an upper floor and went into a most lovely chapel with bluish décor. Father Sameem Balius was performing mass. He talked about the importance of retreats, how they renew peoples’ faith and help them experience the loving presence of God and to seek the wisdom necessary for good daily living.

Colombiere

 

Later we moved the cafeteria, which was surrounded by large windows. My son and I observed the green acres of land. A few nuns were doing their morning walks. I interviewed the priests and organizers of the retreat, who initially started it years prior “to combine prayer, meditation and spiritual education”, and went home feeling blessed to have had the opportunity to visit this place, especially with my young son. (I included below a link of the article I wrote in 2014).

Two years later, my family and I went to Cancun, Mexico and I ended up participating in a spiritual ceremony that had me thinking to bring home the experience I enjoyed in the Riviera Maya. As an author of 12 books, I wanted to also combine writing workshops with it. I’ve worked with many writers and have found that oftentimes, there are spiritual blocks preventing them from moving forward in their career. I’ve also worked with many people who have healed several issues in their lives through the process of writing. I decided to start a writing and spiritual retreat and named it The Path of Consciousness, based on the sign welcoming patrons to the spiritual ceremony in Mexico. Last year, Reverend Barbara Yarnell of the Center of Enlightenment and another dear friend Lisa Argo offered to help me find the right venue and prepare other necessary work.

IMG_5864

 

Someone suggested we visit Colombiere. The name didn’t ring a bell but when we arrived to the building, upon driving into the long road, I immediately remembered the day my son and I went there, the peace that enveloped me and I’m sure him as well since he was so good throughout the day, allowing me to enjoy mass and interview people. From that one visit, we agreed this is the perfect place for the writing and spiritual retreat and didn’t end up touring other retreats. Later, I discovered that Colombiere is said to be “one of the best-kept secrets.”

Chapel

 

As someone who loves history, when I learned of the story behind Colombiere, I invited Janice Seeley, director of conferences and retreats, to come on my show and share it. Colombiere opened as a Jesuit training facility in 1959. It is named after Claude de la Colombiere, a Jesuit teacher, orator and spiritual director, who lived in France from 1641 to 1682 and was canonized May 31, 1992. In the course of preparation for the priesthood, the young Jesuit undergoes fifteen years of training, years of formation. Some examples of the classes offered in liberal arts were English, Latin, Greek, French, Literature, History, Education, and Speech. This rich background prepares the young Jesuit for further studies in philosophy and theology.

From the beginning, the Jesuit Healthcare Center for retired priests and brothers has been located there, as well as a large community of Jesuits involved in the operation of Colombiere. After the number of seminarians declined by the late 70s and 80s, they decided to open up an infirmary/retirement center for the Jesuit priests. In addition, the remainder of the building opened up as a retreat center. Although the facilities reflect the Jesuit influence, they are not limited to those of the Catholic faith. Colombiere hosts a wide spectrum of non-profit and for profit groups and is available for educational, religious, and governmental day and overnight programs, as well as both corporate and religious retreats.

Aside from having the writing and spiritual retreat there, I’m also considering having the Girl Scout troop which I lead to spend a night or two there, where mothers and daughters can enjoy quiet time without the interruption of electronics or television. If you want to check out the spiritual and writing conference and retreat which will be from October 5 to 7, visit this link The Path of Consciousness
Read Article about Chaldean Women’s Retreat

Continue reading “One of the Best-Kept Secrets” →