Last month, we hosted our first residential retreat on the serene and secluded Talpona beach in South Goa. Seven parents travelled from the US and the UK to India to be with each other for seven days. They trusted something deep within and something way beyond themselves. One dad had lost his daughter less than three years ago and a mum was coming up to three decades since her daughter had passed away. None of that mattered. No hierarchy and no need for introductions. In each other’s eyes we saw glimpses of ourselves.
On the first day, when we tried to discern the hopes with which we all had gathered in this far-off cottage by the sea, we drew up the list below. On the last day, when we returned to this list, each one had been fulfilled. In addition, new friendships had formed, a burden had been lifted, our breath was slow and steady, grounding us in this present moment.
Our arms were outstretched in an invisible circle that held everyone. That circle contained everything that everyone brought. For a short while we walked alongside others in whatever journey they were on, with understanding and without judgement. Our being a hundred percent present to each other and ourselves was the foundation of the healing.
We explored a wide variety of topics in depth, ran thought experiments, did simple yoga, experienced the joy of breathing, walked bare feet on the white sands and had soul to soul conversations.
An early morning boat-ride into the ocean to greet the dolphins was pure joy. The local restaurants spoilt us with great food and amazing cocktails. We indulged in a nice long dip in the freshness of a plunge-pool at the bottom of tall waterfall. A tour around the organic spice farm was full of fascinating facts about the things we use every day, such as cinnamon and turmeric.
We laughed and cried together. We had fun. No great magic occurred but the daily renewal of the connections that form the fabric of life was miracle enough.
Feedback forms were unnecessary.
PS: Many members who came want to volunteer the next time around. That speaks for itself. We hope to do this again in November 2026 and February 2027. Being a member of either the Wednesday or the Saturday Core groups is an essential pre-requisite to attending the retreats. The groups are free and reliably held every fortnight. If you are a parent whose child has sadly died, you are invited.