My first ever silent retreat had a spiritual direction component, it was a weekend that was to change my life. Before then I had not heard of spiritual direction, by the end of that year, 2017, my life had taken a new direction and I moved into a career of pastoral care and spiritual direction. Coming from a science background and leading a life of busy-ness, logic and perfectionism, my move into a contemplative space held many challenges. As I have learnt and grown I have come to love holding space and listening deeply to another person, it is very special to be trusted in this way. My spiritual direction formation was undertaken through the Siloam program at the Heart of Life Centre, I have a Masters in Spiritual Direction, and am a Giver of the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises.
Favourite Scripture:
This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is,mand walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls…” Jeremiah 6:16
Favourite Book:
Lord of the Rings – I first read these books in year 10 and have re-read them every couple of years since. The characters have accompanied me through many aspects of my life. I now have my Nana’s boxed set to read which makes it even more special.
Favourite Movie:
Strictly Ballroom
Favourite Quote:
All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost. JRR Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
Memorable Moment:
In late high school I did the Difficult Range Youth Challenge Hike, a weekend bushwalk for teenagers in the Wimmera. I recall the (very!) steep climb to the summit of Mount Difficult that opened out into a magnificent view of the northern end of the Grampians. We shared a massive high in reaching the top after an arduous ascent and what a panorama there was to enjoy. Sadly I did not carry a camera on the hike so there are no photos to celebrate this moment.