The End is Nigh
Tonight marks the second to last time that the Temple's Inner Court will meet and circle on our own for the year. Next week marks the last of this current Study Circle meeting as well as the last Full Moon esbat for the year.
And in three weekend's time, we have our end of year BBQ ...
Where has the year gone and what has been achieved?
Often we are close to a situation etc, we are not all that aware of the larger picture - and a clearer insight is often gained through stepping back and into the position of an observer ... letting the emotional ties fall to the side, if only for a moment.
Indeed, when this is done, it is clear that 2009 has been an extremely challenging, busy and successful year - and whilst not everything has gone according to the initial plan, the end result is very satisfying.
Definately this year has been a year of learning and much growth as the Temple moved into a new structure that incorporated indepth Outer Court training. As expected, such training was not suitable to all who commenced this course, and some who completed, unfortunately did not seem to grasp the concepts of certain concepts which are paramount to a more traditional group and way of teaching. However, nothing is lost - for these experiences have provided a clearer sense of direction, enabling me to approach the new Outer Court for 2010 with fresh gusto.
Whilst it is sad to say "goodbye" to this year's Study Circle in one sense, thus far, most have indicated their interest in attending the Outer Court, and even if they don't, they are more than welcome to attend any of the Temple's events - both private and public.
While the Temple is "closed" (but not uncontactable) over the Summer break, there is still much work to undertake. I am endeavouring to have at least two volumes of our BoS (Book of Shadows) completed for students to access - as well as the supplementary book containing our Sabbat rites, assisting them in their assignment writing.
During the break I am endeavouring to make time with those who are of First Degrees + to go over information with them to see what they have and have not got, in an attempt that no one is left behind, which can happen as the Inner Court circles become more intimate.
I have alway stressed communication as being one of the underlying "rules" that we follow as a group.
Yes, big changes are ahead - but the feeling is all good. With my speaking engagement in New Zealand in February 2010, I hope to make most of the time between now and then to finalise my book, not to mention a few more trips interstate (at least) to work with those who I personally admire and who provide much needed inspiration.
And in three weekend's time, we have our end of year BBQ ...
Where has the year gone and what has been achieved?
Often we are close to a situation etc, we are not all that aware of the larger picture - and a clearer insight is often gained through stepping back and into the position of an observer ... letting the emotional ties fall to the side, if only for a moment.
Indeed, when this is done, it is clear that 2009 has been an extremely challenging, busy and successful year - and whilst not everything has gone according to the initial plan, the end result is very satisfying.
Definately this year has been a year of learning and much growth as the Temple moved into a new structure that incorporated indepth Outer Court training. As expected, such training was not suitable to all who commenced this course, and some who completed, unfortunately did not seem to grasp the concepts of certain concepts which are paramount to a more traditional group and way of teaching. However, nothing is lost - for these experiences have provided a clearer sense of direction, enabling me to approach the new Outer Court for 2010 with fresh gusto.
Whilst it is sad to say "goodbye" to this year's Study Circle in one sense, thus far, most have indicated their interest in attending the Outer Court, and even if they don't, they are more than welcome to attend any of the Temple's events - both private and public.
While the Temple is "closed" (but not uncontactable) over the Summer break, there is still much work to undertake. I am endeavouring to have at least two volumes of our BoS (Book of Shadows) completed for students to access - as well as the supplementary book containing our Sabbat rites, assisting them in their assignment writing.
During the break I am endeavouring to make time with those who are of First Degrees + to go over information with them to see what they have and have not got, in an attempt that no one is left behind, which can happen as the Inner Court circles become more intimate.
I have alway stressed communication as being one of the underlying "rules" that we follow as a group.
Yes, big changes are ahead - but the feeling is all good. With my speaking engagement in New Zealand in February 2010, I hope to make most of the time between now and then to finalise my book, not to mention a few more trips interstate (at least) to work with those who I personally admire and who provide much needed inspiration.