Readers Studio 2016 Wrap Up

As usual, Readers Studio was wonderful. Three things made this year extra special for me. 

First, my lovely wife Lisa attended for the first time as a registered participant. Before this, she attended the banquet only. This was a big, exciting step for her and she enjoyed it quite a lot. Here is a picture of her getting her certificate, making her, as we like to say, bona fide.

Second, my sister Michelle also joined us in running around the city before the conference and she also attended the banquet. I loved introducing her to my friends and having her meet the people she's heard so much about. Here is a picture of us enjoying the High Line. The other picture is of mine, hers, and Lisa's feet on the subway. Because we're arty like that. 

Third, is was my great honor to present this year along with the talented Sasha Graham and Heatherleigh Navarre. When we first learned that we were all presenting, we played with the idea of trying to work together, organizing our presentations so that they formed part of a whole experience. That proved too challenging (heck, just plain old preparing a MainStage presentation is challenge enough!), so we worked on our own. What is really fascinating is that the Universe seemed to hear that intention because even though we didn't plan it, our classes all built on each! And even the order we presented in was perfect. 

Each of us explored darker themes, like fear and our shadow sides. We moved from naming our fears/shadow issues to experiencing them through integration. It was just incredible how it all worked out. 

​Here is a picture of the three of us.

And here is a picture of the three of us being photobombed by Riccardo Minetti, my dear friend and editor at Lo Scarabeo (it was also his first time attending, so I guess I had 4 reasons!).

My workshop ended on a lighter note, with a short lesson on the Art of Blessing. The view from the stage as I watched 200 people blessing each other was so beautiful. I ended the presentation flying my geek flag high as I bestowed all the best blessings in one go. 

In addition to our classes, I enjoyed, as always, connecting with my friends and making new ones. 

Below are some random photos, most from the Readers Studio but a few of Lisa's "in the city" shots that I thought you'd like.