Winter 2019 Workshop Series
Story is a Chance: Writing as Spiritual Practice with instructor Melissa Bennett
Gerald Vizenor (Anishinaabe) wrote, “Life is a chance, a story is a chance. That I am here is a chance.” Our lives are miracles tied to the lives of our ancestors and to the lives of our descendants. All of the moments, big and small, that brought us to this point have meaning and significance. In this workshop, we will utilize sitting and walking meditation practices as a way to slow down and take time to listen deeply to our own stories. We will utilize writing practice as a means of exploring the many chances our ancestors took to bring us to this moment, the chances we have taken to bring us to now, and how these chances impact the stories of our own lives and the lives of those who come after us. We will share our work with each other, trusting in the chance to create change in the world and imagine new possibilities for our future.
Melissa Bennett (Umatilla/Nimiipuu/Sac & Fox/Anishinaabe), M.Div. is a writer, storyteller, educator, and spiritual care provider. Twice nominated for the Pushcart Prize, Melissa’s work focuses on social justice, culture, tradition, and spirituality. Melissa was a 2015 recipient of the Evergreen State College Longhouse Native Creative Development Grant. She is also a member of the Macondo Writers Workshop – an association of socially engaged writers working to advance creativity, foster generosity, and serve community.
COST: $40
BRING: pen, paper, and please wear appropriate clothing for walks on the beach, (optional items to bring: a small blanket or pillow for use during meditation practice and a small item for placement on altar – altar items will be returned to participants after class). Please bring a sack lunch and/or snack. Coffee and hot tea provided.
This workshop is for students over 18 years old. 15 students max.
*RSVP: via souwesterfrontdesk@gmail.c
The Sou’wester Lodge at 3728 J Place, Seaview, WA 98644
This class is part of the Winter 2019 Workshop Series. All classes are open to the public and all skill levels welcome. Visit www.souwesterlodge.com/calendar to see the full schedule of artist-led workshops.