Restore, Repair, Renew Retreat

On Thursday, June 25, a relaxing and rejuvenating event was offered to elders who had survived the Eaton Fire. Through the joint efforts of Pasadena Village, Project HOPE, Epicenter Church in Pasadena, and Fully Alive Community Health, about 50 participants were guided through a number of healing activities at the picturesque La Casita del Arroyo. 

I lost my home of 51 years as well as a lifetime of my artwork, but I felt that I was doing well as a survivor of the Eaton Fire. I didn’t think I “needed” this retreat but decided it might be fun. It turned out to be more than fun. I found myself rejuvenated when it was over. I had no idea it had so much to offer me. I can only imagine that the others also felt similarly.

My favorite activity as an artist, of course, was creating a puzzle shaped piece of art. The cut papers in various colors were distributed to everyone to decorate - absolutely no artistic skill required, just color and lines. When we were done, the pieces were gathered up and placed together on the windows to create a kind of mosaic art with a stained glass look. It was marvelous!

We also danced!  Again, no special skills required, just a willingness to move and rejoice. This was led by Michelle Kolb of Lineage Performing Arts Center. We picked partners and were guided through very easy movements while remaining seated if we liked. We felt a deep sense of connection.

Halfway through the retreat, we broke for a luscious lunch and an opportunity to just converse with each other. That, in itself, was healing.

Magy Narinian, whom I had not seen for a very long time, was there. I asked her what she thought of the program and she told me she found it “wonderful and freeing.”

This was the second such retreat that has been offered to elders surviving the Eaton Fire. There are plans in the works to host another towards the end of the year. It will be the same unique partnership of Pasadena Village, Epicenter Church, and Fully Alive Community Health offering it. While we all have received support from our community, organizations like these and the love and support of our friends and family fortify our spirits just a little bit more.