On retreat

I returned  from a three-day stay at a local retreat center nestled in the redwoods in northern California. I hadn't been to a spiritual retreat since I was in high school. At that time we did everything we could to avoid attending the scheduled sessions since it was focused on specific religious beliefs. This time I made sure that I attended every session and I hung on the leader's every word. I learned more about God's unconditional love for me. I was told that I am perfect and complete just as I am and that my life's purpose was to live, love, and express gladness. I watched people around me shed tears as they took in those sacred words. Over forty people spent those three days creating a bond which would not be easily broken. I shared with the group that what occurred during our time together was the real world, a world that was healthy and whole. As I left the retreat this morning I felt renewed and energized, ready to approach whatever I needed to do knowing that God/the Universe was there to support me. What do you do to connect with God/the Universe and those who share the planet with you?