As we look forward to this December, we are very excited at the prospect of spending another weekend with those of you who are moved to attend this year. I believe that we have found an approach which seems to bless us all. We are constantly seeking the best way to present Spirituality in the context of our Program. At the same time, we use the program to go beyond towards other spiritual perspectives which could enhance our individual paths. I believe we have an excellent format.
ONE OF THE FEATURES THAT GIVES THESE WEEKENDS A SPECIAL AMBIANCE IS THE POLICY OF NOT ALLOWING GROUPS OF ATTENDEES FROM THE SAME AREA WHO ALREADY KNOW EACH OTHER. PLEASE LIMIT IT TO YOURSELF AND ONE OTHER.
The weekends are designed for those of us who have been at this for awhile and not for the newcomers. It has been my observation that our AA programs tend to produce a definite pattern of growth for a number of the earlier years and then level off into the maintenance of an adequate and familiar level of spirituality. Unfortunately, the spiritual path does not lend itself kindly to the status quo.
The worst part of this status quo is that the pain generally does not become acute enough to propel us into real action. We continue exactly what we have been doing, telling ourselves that maybe this is all there is, or that it will probably get better shortly. The name "The Far Corners” was chosen to represent a spiritual journey from the far and distant corners of our mind towards the joy and freedom of our own hearts. The ultimate destination is the eternal now.
The Day Spring Episcopal Conference Center is located in Ellenton, FL. It is approximately a one hour drive from the Tampa Airport. At rush hour (anytime after 2:30 P.M.), it could take somewhat longer. The Day Spring website is provided so that you can see what it looks like and how nice the facilities are. All reservations are made through us. Don’t try to contact Day Spring for rooms
The dates for this year are December 11-13, 2009. The cabins and lodges are all very nice and each room contains two beds. For one rate you can share the room, or you can pay slightly higher and have a private room. When the on-site rooms are gone or, if you prefer, we have saved a block of rooms at two motels on Rt. 301 just outside the entrance to Day Spring. More detailed information on reservations costs and motels is contained on the Reservation button on this site. Also, I regret that we are going to have to increase your costs for our production of the retreat itself. Last year, we experienced a shortfall in our receivables vs expenses and after calculating more accurately, I have increased each person by about $20.00. These additional costs include legal work, printing, handouts, and the addition of continental breakfast, cookies, and other preparation items.
We are limited by the size of the classroom which will hold 55 seated at tables. We operate on a first come first serve basis. If you do not get a confirmation, your name will be kept as a standby for possible cancellations. Refunds can be obtained up until 10 days prior to each date, as we are required to make full payment to Day Springs at that time. After that date, Day Springs will not refund any money. Therefore, the only refund within 10 days of the retreat will be your registration fee to us.
The entire retreat will be taped and copies of all schedules, handouts, worksheets, letters, and reading lists will be made available. The entire package can be obtained from Lee's Tapes. Lee can be reached at 407-333-4330 or at “leestapes@via family.com”. The package can easily be used for your own spiritual weekend.
Since we do not allow more than one or two people from the same area, we make no effort to inform local persons of these weekends. Almost everyone will be making the commitment to travel some distance at their own expense to be with others from all around the country. You may, of course, find one travelling companion to make the trip a little easier.
About a month before each weekend, those attending will receive a letter outlining the weekend and what advance preparations should be made before you walk out the door.
