Retreat, Renew

I’ve been at a retreat for school faculty and staff the past two days. We went to a lovely golf resort south of Baltimore where we participated in a variety of activities intended to “Renew the heartbeat of the school.” That’s us …the heartbeat. And I really felt that all through the retreat.

First of all, we were treated like VIPs. We were given time off the day before to prepare; the school paid for the hotel rooms for staff who were willing to stay overnight; we were treated to wonderful snacks, lunches and even a Happy Hour; we were given welcome gifts of a nifty school tote bag filled with useful items; and we were given time off to go to the spa, play golf, or do some other activity which would renew us.

Second, the programs were interesting and inspirational. There was a workshop with an expert on learning processes and brain development and two sessions with a motivational speaker, who inspired us not only with her words but with her very personality. We also took time to work together on some curriculum development and heard some words of thanks and encouragement from the Head of the School.

Third, we had the opportunity to meet and talk with staff from across the school’s two campuses and three divisions. Each day started with a fun and successful ice breaker that put everyone in a good mood and made it easy to chat with people you don’t see every day. Everyone was in a friendly and cooperative mood, so it was relaxing and pleasant to be with them.

And finally, the retreat started with a short worship session and ended with a prayer, both of which included heartfelt requests for God’s help as we prepare ourselves to work with “God’s little children.” Though I’m not a church goer, I admit to being touched by these simple but genuine religious expressions by staff who are clearly on speaking terms with their God. How can you not say a real “Amen” to the prayer that asks for God’s help as “we rock on to the end of the school year”?

As for my personal renewal, I enjoyed a wonderful bottle of wine with some of colleagues at the Iron Bridge Wine Company, went shopping for much needed spring clothes, and experienced a wild night at a local Karaoke bar. (Well, I thought it was wild. Everyone in our group, including me, got up and danced, I laughed more than I have in a long time, and we didn’t leave until 12:30 a.m.. What can I tell you? I don’t get out much!)