Sep 26-28, 2008
Relating Well: Strength With Heart
A Workshop for Men
The craft of relating well can be learned, but it isn’t often taught, especially to men. Some relationship skills may come naturally, but it helps to have brothers who are willing to tell of their troubles and triumphs, their sadness and success. This is a weekend about connection: How do we deepen our bonds with our lovers and partners? How do we come closer to children, parents, would-be friends? How do we enjoy quiet while resisting the lure of isolation? What’s standing in the way of our living with both strength and heart? The new millennium yearns for men who are centered in themselves and ready to cooperate with others.
Gathering among men is a hallowed tradition, tens of thousands of years old. Let us tap into this ancient touchstone; let us stir up some growth together. Your wisdom and curiosity will be welcome here. So will all your emotions.
Together we will share simple experiential exercises, in small groups and in the whole group. We’ll share songs, journaling, a few video clips, and uplifting camaraderie. This retreat, for men of all ages, will be led by two friends both former presidents of the Unitarian Universalist Men’s Network who have been leading men into greater awareness, effectiveness, and joy for years. Come share some of the early fall as the leaves begin their riot of color in the fertile environs of Rowe. Let us return home energized and ready for what is coming.
Click to read Neil's articles in the Center Post.
Neil Chethik has been writing and speaking about men and family life since 1990. He wrote two acclaimed books about men: FatherLoss: How Sons Come To Terms With the Deaths of Their Dads, and VoiceMale: What Men Really Think About Their Relationships. He believes American culture can be male-positive and pro-feminist at the same time. He’s been married 20 years and has a teenage son.
Jaco B. ten Hove began investigating men’s consciousness in 1985 and has led numerous retreats for men since then, usually also bringing his guitar and other music makers. He directed Rowe Youth Camps for eight years and loves this site dearly. He’s also an avid practitioner of the uplifting interpersonal and group method called Appreciative Inquiry. A UU parish minister since 1988, Jaco has shared a co-ministry with his spouse Barbara for the past decade.