kumbia

Every task we do, however much we do it, the experience is never the same.  We see each event as unique.  We may eat the same candy but would remember one and forget the other.  Or talk about the same topic to the same person even, and yet one meant more than the other.  This was more evident from this weekends' activities.  I went to my 4th Youth Spring retreat.  The experience on each was quite different.  Memorable in similar and oh so different ways.  Yet you learn each and every single time.  You let go of control a bit more than the last.  You cry more or sometimes less.  You laugh just a little or you laugh a lot.  It doesn't really matter what, the day is just not same, it just cannot.  

 

There were of course some down sides to the weekend but its not something I would like to dwell on.  The thing is, the best time to be had is when you get to plug-into a community full of people who love, care, and just know how to have fun.  Those people who in any other world, you may not even consider a friend, IS one.  You learn to respect people.  You may not end up great friends with them but you learn and care for them in some way or another.  

 

The highlight for me is the night service by Fr. Paul.  Amidst the bonfire and the flicker of candles, there lies the words.  Nothing else to focus on but the thoughts in your head and the darkness, the music, and the sense of solemnity.  The oneness you feel among your fellow. 

 

I recommend a retreat for everyone.  It's worth the loss of sleep.  The fun, "Kumbia" feeling would take its place instead.  The culmination of tension from months past will melt away and all you focus on is your self and those around you.