Sweaty from the journey and with the first heavy raindrops before a magnificent thunderstorm, we arrived at Herzfeld Sennrüti and were welcomed by beaming faces and open arms. The arrival formalities were quickly completed and we unloaded our luggage in a lovely guest room. Then down the stairs again, following the signs and getting our bearings. Exercise room, common room, workshop room, quiet room, where do we eat? And again and again, warm greetings from familiar and unfamiliar faces, like a big family.
Now I’m back at home writing this report and trying to remember the details, which I find rather difficult. During these almost four days, I was able to immerse myself in a warm and benevolent environment and allow myself to be carried by the people, indeed the whole group around me, and also by the daily structure, so that I was able to be fully present from moment to moment and enjoy myself. Enjoying deep encounters, nourishing singing and dancing, shared experiences, rituals, workshops and much more.
The homegroups provided support during these days. There, things could be shared on a smaller scale, were heard and seen and in turn inspired the others in the group. The marketplace was an opportunity to get to know the different communities. In the counselling/help circle, valuable discussions were held with experienced people who have been living in communities for some time. The workshops were very varied and were generously offered by many members. There was a lot of singing and dancing, tools for community building, handicrafts, forgiveness rituals, setting boundaries and taking up space, politics and much more. And there was a forum every evening. On the last evening with the legendary open stage, followed by dancing, a concert and a sauna, some people didn’t get to bed until late.
As a group, we grew closer together and got to know each other better. There was depth and chaos and excitement and vulnerability and love. Together we were able to jump over shadows or look at them, grow, develop, be courageous and allow ourselves to do so. I noticed a lot of willingness to come to terms with what is there. A group of people from Ukraine also joined our meeting and, despite the language barrier, became a part of us and allowed themselves to be touched and moved by us.
The crowning glory of the whole day was the closing on Sunday morning. We thanked all the helpers and all the participants and honoured the space that we had created together as a community of communities, and I also thanked us all for creating this space in which there is so much potential that can continue to be developed. And when things get chaotic, we just sing!
I look forward to many more celebrations and meetings, for example at the community meeting in Rigi Klösterli in March or at the next summer camp in the yurt village in August.
Corinne, in August 2024
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