Saturday night was "Creativity Night." Creativity night has always been one of my favorite events at Gatherings, and it seems to be a perennial favorite with many repeat attendees.
Creativity Night offers attendees the opportunity to share something about their creative passions-- and it can be anything from poetry and music, to some unusual story from their personal experience. It may sound rather daunting to get up in front of a group and share something creative-- yet, there are always a lot of people signed up to share, and often new names are added to the list, even as the evening progresses. It works because Creativity Night typically happens "late" in the Gathering, at a time when attendees feel more like "friends," than strangers to each other.
The sharing is always beautiful and heartfelt, and I am always amazed and impressed by the depth and spectrum of talent. For some, it is the first time they have "publicly" shared art, song or other creative endeavor-- a testament to just how safe and welcoming it can feel to be with fellow HSPs.
And so, even good things must come to an end...
The 2007 California Gathering was a day shorter than previous Gatherings. In the past, we have started on Thursday afternoons, and ended on Monday at lunch. This time around, Sunday lunch marked the end of our time together. Personally, I missed that extra day, and I believe several other people felt a bit "rushed."
Without a doubt, the most emotionally charged part of any HSP Gathering is the “closing circle” on the final day. By this time, everyone present has relaxed a comfortable place, friendships and connections have been formed, and the realization comes that we are about to part ways and return to our “regular lives.”
It is here that the most beautiful and amazing sharing takes place, as each person shares how their lives have been affected by coming to the Gathering, and what they will take with them. Because there is an atmosphere of total emotional and psychic validation and acceptance, there are no limits on words, feelings, or tears.
One of the most frequently asked questions during the final session is "How do I take this feeling, and these connections with me home, and into real life?"
We try to remind ourselves that the Gathering IS “real life,” and what happens outside is an illusion built on other people’s paradigms. We remind ourselves that we are not ending connections; we are merely beginning them.
And then... it is suddenly time for our last lunch together, at least for this go around. A few people have already left-- at every Gathering, some choose to leave early, often with the words "I just can't handle goodbyes." Addresses and contact information are exchanged; words of “see you next time” spoken, and very long hugs shared.
And then, the group slowly-- and a bit reluctantly-- disperses. A few stay behind, planning to use the facilities for one final afternoon hike.
I find that I am often among the first to arrive, and among the last to leave. It used to make me feel a bit strange, but I have made peace with the fact that I want to soak in every last positive vibe I can, before going back home.
