Too Good to Quit Now

We congregate six weeks post coming out party. The energy is palpable and the conversation brisk as we attempt to catch up on each other’s lives before the official kick-off of the meeting. It’s been too long – we agree. And, there is a daunting awareness that the clock is ticking as we move closer to our final meeting in December. So much so, you can hear comments on how we’ll miss the energy, discovery and accountability once the New Year is upon us.

The impending demise of the group causes us to spend the night vacillating between the success of the coming out party and reminiscing about the beginning of this amazing journey in comparison to our lives today. We know we’ve evolved in ways unimaginable just eleven months ago. Brittany is doing art again, is traveling to India to fulfill a dream, and has given herself permission to trust the right things will come her way. This couldn’t be further away from Brittany’s steadfast conviction she couldn’t blend art and work. Laura shows up tonight exuding confidence, is living more in the moment, and knows innovation is the secret to loving work. I’m convinced this is the start of a whole new chapter in her life. I could go on and on; Jennifer who is now guided by spirit and the clarity she’s here to create a connectedness across cultures. Or, Meg who’s continuing her journey and vows to relive the lessons until she has the same level of clarity many of us enjoy today. I’m excited about the stories that are unfolding.

Kelly also joins us after missing the party in October. We are in awe of her courage, honesty and vulnerability as she talks about her inner struggle that held her hostage that night. People echo the sentiments I shared individually with Kelly in our last check-in; we miss her when she doesn’t show up. She has an innate ability to ask insightful questions and brings a depth to our conversations. Kelly assures us she’s taking the necessary steps to be kinder to herself. The conversation serves as a reminder that this work can be very challenging. And for that reason, I am even more proud of those who’ve had the courage to throw themselves into this experiment whole-heartily, take risks and go after what they want.

As we relive our experiences, we revel in the success we’ve created together. A community has been built that defines words. And, we realize we’re not done. It's too good to quit now. Stopping would be premature. The group is on a roll and we are ready to put some energy into our dreams. Therefore, we opt to continue our gatherings into 2010.

We hope you’ll come along.