During carpool conversations to the "New Story" Retreat in January, a few of us all realized we were the parents of teens. On the drive home, Seema, Helen and I wondered how we could pay-forward the space we'd experienced, and share these values with our teens in a meaningful way.

Yesterday, 30 of us gathered for our first Awakin Teens Circle. I feel so blessed and full in my heart!

We split up into two circles -- one for teens, and one for parents. Remarkable storyteller, Brian Conroy, led the teens in a bunch of group activities and conversations around the theme: "obstacles to happiness and values that contribute to happiness." All the parents circled up in a separate room, and had an Awakin Circle-style period of stillness, reading, and circle of sharing reflections.

At the end, we all convened for a 'handshake telephone' activity that Maya and Aum led, which showed us how our presence ripples out into the world, in ways we don't know or see. :) Then we all flowed into an abundant potluck dinner. The group energy and spirit was so alive!

Afterwards, one of the teens wanted to start a kindness club at her school, and a few of them are brainstorming ways to celebrate their birthday by spreading smiles -- like what Maya did last year! Another parent reported: "My teens actually really had a great circle... Heard them say - the people here were so not fake...so nice and kind."



It's amazing how much is 'caught,' not 'taught'. Here is a conversation between my 13 year old and I, about yesterday evening :)

Son: Mom I can learn from these people more in one day than what I learned in school for last 2 years. I have no clue why I go to school.

Me: What is so different about these people?

Son: They are just so positive ...and happy. Brian, Kozo, Audrey and others seem to like their life.

Me: You think that is different?

Son: Yes ...most people around ... even my teachers seem to be annoyed with their life and the work they have to do. But these people are happy.