Carrie Link

MY CUP RUNNETH OVER

Can't even believe the last few days, I'm sure I'll be processing them for months, years, ever. We've been on the go, non-stop, meeting incredible women doing incredible things, after experiencing incredible trauma.

We've been partaking in what is called an "Urban Retreat" run by the Joyful Heart Foundation. A foundation devoted to the healing of women, survivors of sexual trauma, mind, body and spirit. The foundation began in 2002 by Emmy Award Winning, Mariska Hargitay. Yesterday she came in to speak to the group, bringing her young son, August with her. She has a commanding presence, to say the least, and an inspirational speaker and woman.

Today I spent time talking to a young woman with a memoir coming out next week, the amazing and role model worthy, Katie Hnida. She is the first woman to play Division I college football, as a kicker. Her book is aptly named, Still Kicking. You must RUN, not walk to your nearest bookstore on November 28th. She is just a bright and shining example of someone that has defied the odds.

The women that came to this retreat have been through hell. They are all working hard to pull themselves out from the depths of that hell, and reach towards the light. So hard to do, so brave of them to be on their journey, so much community between them, just knowing they are not alone on their path. I stand in awe.

Tomorrow I fly back to Portland. On Thursday I will share Thanksgiving with a loving extended family. I have so much renewed gratitude after this weekend. So much to be thankful for, so much to reach towards, so much to strive for, so much to learn.

Thank you to all of my teachers. I am thankful you have let me walk partway on your journey with you.