Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi all

It's time for us to decide when to have an Integral Gathering in Sacramento next summer.  The centerpiece of the gathering will be a workshop with  Robert Augustus Masters (on his webpage the section on The Work will give more general information; in particular see his Groupwork page).  His schedule for next year is booking up, so within the next month or so we need to arrange at least approximate dates for the workshop.  (Of course, not everyone who attends the gathering will want to attend the workshop; but this is a deeply transformative opportunity, and I very highly recommend it.)

I spoke with Robert last night, and he's only interested in doing a two-day workshop - these days that's increasingly the shortest he wants to do, as people go much deeper and get more work done in multiple-day workshops.  The workshops are expensive but very potent, so you get a lot of bang for your buck.

So what I'm asking initially is: who thinks they will likely come to the gathering AND do the workshop, and what dates would work for you workshop-wise?  Liz and I will be offline for a week starting tomorrow, so we won't have any input on this thread until we get back.  Other details of the gathering can be taken care of later; the timing is the only thing we really have to more-or-less nail down soon.

I'm so looking forward to meeting some of y'all integral freaks.  :p

spiral out,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

To whet your appetite, please see the brief essay I just posted by Robert:

Why Groupwork?

cheers
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I'd like to add my schedule constraints before I leave, so y'all don't get excited about a week that can't happen.

It needs to be after my kids get out of school, and before they go back, which means mid-June to mid-August. And the first two weeks of August are probably out, as one of those weeks will be a family vacation for us, though the exact week I'm not sure of yet (I'll know when I get back after this week, as they'll have next summer's schedule posted.)

So we're probably looking very much at July as the month of choice, with late June as a possibility.

Oh, and plan to bring a bathing suit. There is a public pool a block away, and it gets rather warm here in the summer. Yesterday it was 101 F, which is I think about 40 C. We're currently having a cold snap, so it's going to be around 85 all week, to give you an idea of the range. It rarely rains in the summer, so don't bring any rain gear at all. Probably a bit early for this advice, but I'm in morning rambling mode…

We do have air conditioning, so the workshop will be comfortable.

Area amenities include the aforementioned pool located in a park, an expensive but lovely B&B next to that, which has a very nice spa we might want to go to, museums, shops, etc. within walking distance. My community has a hot tub and a common house with room for 50 people to eat dinner and various smaller groups to meet. My house is small, but I have a small back yard. It's possible that if you can't afford a motel, you could camp out. There's also a KOA campground within a short drive, and tons of motels and hotels.

This is also the capital of California, and Ahhnold works nearby. Day trips to SF and Lake Tahoe are easily possible, as they're both within a 2-hour drive. San Francisco is also easily accessed by train and public transit.

We were hoping to schedule it close to but not in competition with Dharmapalooza, but Stuart is challenged in the planning department, so that's off the table. We'll just sort of hope they don't happen on the same week!

Enough. I have to get to work packing.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Wow, it's finally manifesting!

Count me in on the RAM workshop, and as far as the gathering is concerned, anytime in July is fine.

I recently did a phone session with RAM, and I recommend his work to anyone serious about shadow work. He was very good at connecting various strands and getting to the core of an issue, while at the same time keeping his energy very clean and non-opinionated.
Of  course, I couldn't help “selling” the Integral Gathering Workshop to him, but frankly, it was like selling ice cream to kids. Not very hard :P


Thanks Liz and Arthur for creating the space for all this to happen!


Warmly
Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Count me in for the gathering and the RAM workshop.

I'll likely be driving up from Southern Cal, so I can offer rides to people who are along the route, or even a little off the route, from San Diego to Sacramento. If anyone's flying and arriving at the LA International airport (LAX), I can come get you – we'll work out the scheduling as the time approaches.

I'm also up for treks to Tahoe and environs. I actually really enjoy driving (as long as it's not rush hour …)

Yay!

Mary

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Wow, Maryw & Pelle - I'm so glad you're both in for the RAM workshop, whoo-hoo!  Looks like the entire “Mod Squad” will be there!  (Note to anybody disgruntled with the mods: Robert always has boxing gloves on hand, should it come to that.)  :p

delighted spirals,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Mary: If our respective schedules permit, I'd love to travel with you from the airport.

Arthur: looks like we'll be standing back to back fighting the others off, we need to start working out LOL



Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

'Twould be great fun, Pelle! Bring some tango CDs! (If you still have stuff on CD, that is … I gotta remember that I'm still living in the 20th century, music-wise …).

And don't worry: I rarely smoke, but when I do, it's never in the car …

:-)

Mary

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

You'll love driving with Mary. I've done it several times. Bonus: she's not quite the good girl she pretends she is.

Hehe,

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

OMG Liz, I'm just an innocent boy from Sweden

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Oh, geez, she's a respectable married woman! I was talking about the smoking, lol.

You'll have to get to the gathering proper to find yourself some lovin'.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Liz and Arthur, Count me in too, preferably for me, the end of June, or early July. Count me in for the RAM workshop too….. I can hardly wait to see Pelle there! :0) and whaddabout Julian too!

this is very exciting…I hope everyone comes.
love Jane

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I have been imagining this gathering for the past few weeks, fantasizing about it a bit, my longing to be be with you all is wonderfully rich. I'm not quite sure how I will fund it yet, but count me in. About how much will RAM's workshop be? I can't imagine a better opportunity to participate in one of his intensives than with you all.

I'd like to offer to teach a yoga class or two during our time together, and also to help lead a kirtan if people are interested. I am not an instrumentalist but I can sing and I know a lot of sanskrit chants (and other songs). Anyone here play guitar? Tabla or other drums? Anyone have a harmonium? None are necessary, but we could rock better with some instrumentation.

Late June is likely to be the least potentially conflicted time for me, though I have no other firm commitments yet.

I'd be looking for the bargain lodging option. If anyone knows of a good deal, fill me in by pm please.

This is wicked cool.

xoooooox,
Lauren

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Arthur and I just did a huge high five about you and Jane! We're totally psyched. The workshop will kick collective ass.

We have done some very informal things in the past where those with a bit more money have funded parts of others'  trips. So let's put out that intention into the universe that we want this to turn out doable for all who want to come here.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Lauren: I'd like to offer to teach a yoga class or two during our time together, and also to help lead a kirtan if people are interested.

~~~~~

Those both sound fabulous, Lauren.  Thanks also for reminding me to look for local Kirtanish happenings in these parts.

BTW Diane Bardwell just added a comment (via me and email) to the Mischa Karuna thread.

aurora out,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Here's where we stand at present.  First, the people who are interested in attending the workshop (in addition to the gathering):

Liz
Arthur
Pelle
Mary
Jane
Lauren
Gina
Ewan (maybe)
Grey (maybe)
Colin (maybe)

In other words, seven are saying “YES!” and three are saying, “I'd love to, but um…” - out of a possible total of 12 workshop attendees.  These are definitely numbers we can work with; I'm sure we can fill this workshop up.  Once we have a date firmed up, people will have the opportunity to secure a position in the workshop with a deposit.

Liz: So we're probably looking very much at July as the month of choice, with late June as a possibility.

Pelle: as far as the gathering is concerned, anytime in July is fine.

Maryw: [interested in attending, didn't specify time]

Jane: preferably for me, the end of June, or early July.

Lauren: Late June is likely to be the least potentially conflicted time for me, though I have no other firm commitments yet.

Ewan: [interested in attending, didn't specify time]

Grey: I'd prefer either late June to early July to coincide with the 4th of July (to visit family before or after the gathering) or sometime in August (or late July?)

Frans: July would be the best time frame for me.

Colin: [interested in attending, didn't specify time]

Gina: [interested in attending, didn't specify time]

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I've never been to California!

Oh, and very well summed up Arthur :)


Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I heard back from Robert - he says the July 4th weekend won't work for him, so it would have to be one of the other two weekends - July 12-13 or July 19-20.  Let's go with July 12-13 as it appears to most closly match the majority of preferences that have been expressed in the thread.  We'll work the gathering dates around that - in the Vancouver gathering the workshop happened around the middle of the gathering.

Does this sound good to everyone?

spirals,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Yeah, definitely July 12-13 for me (“definite” for the timing, not for the workshop yet), with the bulk of the gathering happening before or during that weekend. That way I can do the family thing for the 4th of July and then the gathering before heading back home.

Cheers,
~G

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I am totally up for it, and will commit as much as I can at present,  I may be starting a Masters in January, which would mean funds would be tight - but I'll start scriping and saving! 

Lauren: I can play guitar and most percussion, though I'm not sure I fancy bringing instruments over on the plane.

Pelle: What route do flights from Sweden take?  Would be cool to share the journey.


Ewan

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I'm still planning on coming to the gathering, too, and I'm interested in the workshop, as well, but like Ewan, I'll need to check my budget.

As for timing, I'd prefer either late June to early July to coincide with the 4th of July (to visit family before or after the gathering) or sometime in August (or late July?) that would make it possible to maybe hit Stu's mega Dharmapalooza 2008 either before or after, but I'm not sure that a precise date has been set for that yet.

And hey, Euro bros (Pelle and Ewan), let's make it a traveling threesome! (Sorry, just watched the World Golf Championships yesterday… don't get any weird ideas! ;-)

Can't wait!

~G

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hey Grey

Defo buddy!  I wanna eek out every damned minute of this trip getting to know you all.  A 20hour flight with you and Pelle sounds awesome!


Ewan

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Ewan: A 20hour flight with you and Pelle sounds awesome!

Well, if we manage to get London-SFO direct, it'll actually only be about a 12-hour flight, but yeah, should be a hoot!  Hmmm… but add check-in in London, customs in SF, getting a rental car and driving to Sacramento, and I guess we'll be closer to 20 hours of travel time after all.

Anyway, definitely something to plan for!  Anyone else in the Old World planning on making the trip?


~G

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Grey:
Anyone else in the Old World planning on making the trip?

Yeah, I'm seriously considering it, and I very likely will. Travelling with you guys would be so much fun they're probably gonna make it illegal. My brother is moving to San Diego so I want to combine it with a visit to him. But I'd definitely like to join the three of you on the way to California, and could visit my brother after the gathering.

Much interest in the RAM session from my part!

Peter

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Fantastic, guys. I'm overwhelmed by this. We'll see what we can do about Dharmapalooza, but I'd rather hang out with you guys than anyone else.

I'm seriously having trouble pulling myself away from the keyboard. See you all in a week.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Liz: We'll see what we can do about Dharmapalooza.

Yeah, I'm with you that the Sacto gathering is the priority event, but it sounds like Dharmapalozza's gonna be pretty cool in 2008, too.  Maybe somebody who knows Stu personally can get him to coordinate his event to match up better with ours! ;-)

BTW, I'm thinking early July would also be better for me from a “budgetary” point of view, too, so that I could get over there before the super-high season starts and the prices of flights go through the roof.

But whatever. Maybe planning far enough ahead will help offset some of the price effect.

P&L
~G

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi all

Gotta pull myself away from this keyboard and do final preparations to get ready to go to Camp Sac.  I checked with Robert and the number of workshop participants = 12, just so you know.  :)  I'm psyched that so many Zpeeps are interested.  I want to do a workshop with all of you!

OK, I'm really going now…love to all…see you in a week.  (And next summer for real!)

metamettaspirals,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Peter: My brother is moving to San Diego so I want to combine it with a visit to him.

Excellent!  Then I guess we'll have to decide whether to fly into SF or LA. SF is a lot more convenient for getting to Sacto, but a big group road trip up from So. Cal. could be a lot of fun, too… as long as we don't try to do it the same day we get off the plane!

Anyway, lots of time to make plans.

Later,
~G

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I’m planning on being there too - July would be the best time frame for me. Depending on cost i would love to participate in the workshop as well (babies are expensive - both directly and indirectly!).

Frans

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Wow, is this exciting, or ¿What?

Count me IN for the IG. I would love to do the RAM workshop; like others, expense is a consideration.

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

mee too!

In for both. 

Yipppeee!

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Yaayyy!!!

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Grey:
And hey, Euro bros (Pelle and Ewan), let's make it a traveling threesome! (Sorry, just watched the World Golf Championships yesterday… don't get any weird ideas! ;-)


It would be supercool to have a travelling foursome!
I guess we'd all have to go to that little island first, what's-its-name… Oh right, England :P

Jokes aside, if we don't check in all the way but instead check in together for the London-SF flight then we could indeed do the journey together!


Is it just  my counting or is the RAM workshop selling out fast?


Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

This is sounding like it's gonna be awesome.  I am not sure I could afford the RAM workshop, and it sounds like it's close to full anyway, but I'd definitely love to drive up to Sacto and hang out with all y'all…

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

… and if you don't drive up to hang with us, we'll drive down to meet you instead and expect you to treat all of us to dinner …. LOL …

;-)

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Been there, done that!

And I reckon I'll be doing it again, if'n I don't behave this time.

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

R Thor wrote: I heard back from Robert - he says the July 4th weekend won't work for him, so it would have to be one of the other two weekends - July 12-13 or July 19-20.  Let's go with July 12-13 as it appears to most closly match the majority of preferences that have been expressed in the thread.  We'll work the gathering dates around that - in the Vancouver gathering the workshop happened around the middle of the gathering.

Does this sound good to everyone?

spirals,
arthur

July 12-13 will work for me … or at least, I can make it work!

Thanks,
Mary

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Great, Mary!  Anybody else have comments on the proposed time?  I'll leave a couple of days for feedback before I set the date with Robert.  :)

spirals,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I'd add that now is really the time to say if you have a strong preference, because Arthur and I have been trying to work with some pretty fuzzy ideas, like “What does 'early July' mean? Is it only the first week or the first half, or what?” So if you care about not getting left out, you need to be ultra specific if your needs are also specific.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I don't have any specific preferences. Either weekend works fine.

And people! Liz and Arthur are working for all of us, to arrange a kick-ass gathering. So get you heads out of your ______, and tell them your preferences!


Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

There's our Pelle, always the gentleman. Wouldn't want to use “ass” twice in one post!

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Here are some thoughts on the cost of Robert and Diane's workshops.  Of course,
&600-$700 for two days seems like a lot (and in practical terms, for many people it
is not an easy expenditure.  But to look at it from another perspective, many
workshops have a lot more people in them – often 50 or more – for a similar or
greater price.  In the two-day workshops Robert and Diane take a maximum of 12
people for 2 full days. There is a tremendous amount of individual attention.
No group rituals or practices are prescribed, rather very specific
guidance is given.  If you figured out the price per hour for
individual work, and multiplied that by 12 hours minimum for the
weekend, it's way over twice as much as the workshop tuition – and the energy and
dynamics of working in a group setting are very powerful.  (And by
the way, Robert's fee is roughly the same as that of the everyday psychologist in Vancouver,
which is noteworthy, given how many people fly in from all over North America to work with him.)

One way to think about it is this: if you saved $15 a week from now until the time
of the Sacramento workshop, you would have enough for the workshop, easily.  If you
want deep and transformative work, it's worth it, believe me – and I want all of
you to be there. :)

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

There's our Pelle, always the gentleman. Wouldn't want to use “ass” twice in one post!

D'oh!

I mean… I know how sensitive you Americans are, especially you Liz :P

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I am very interested after reading RAM website. Sounds like a great opportunity. And I get to meet some crazy I-I peeps. :-P

Is it full now?

Anytime in the summer is good for me since in Texas it's too hot and I like vacations to cooler parts of the world then.

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

It's not full yet, no. It won't really and truly be full until RAM starts taking deposits, and that hasn't even started yet. Arthur will give more details as they become available. Psyched to have you aboard!

As for the weather here being cooler than Texas…um…no, I can't promise that. However, I can promise that it will be less humid. I can't really imagine anything worse than the weather in Texas, so it must be better here…

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi Guys

Arthur and Liz, great work on organising all this.  The dates are fine for me, money is going to be my issue.  The workshop sounds fantastic, and the price sounds pretty cheap to me, but add that to the cost of a flight, and the fact that I'll be paying out for a masters, and its still going to be a struggle.  I'm hoping to go to one of the I-I seminars when they next come around too - hope it dosn't come down to a choice between the two!!!!


Ewan

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Give up some bad habit that costs you money (like getting useless degrees) and start putting the money away now, so you can be here and participate.

That said, it's not like there is some imperative to participate in the workshop. Your presence here is the most important thing, and being around other integralites in meatspace is reason enough.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Haha.

I'm sure I could find more useless habits to give up ;)

I found a diamond necklace in the road a month ago - if no one claims it in the next 6 weeks I get to keep it, so maybe I'll use that to finance my trip :)


Ewan

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Oh my gosh! I am just seeing this and I want to jump at this and say I am in. Instead, I am going to say, I am going to try my darnedest. I SO want to meet you all in person even if I am a bit of a quiet lurker here and post only ever so occasionally (I want to say, that is because, I feel I have needed some space from having been too intimately immersed in the “integral/II world” for the last four years here in Colorado). But to meet you all will rock!

June works better for me. My biggest challenge will be how much gossip to leave behind in Boulder ;-) ;-) ;-)

Liz, Arthur, in case you want to explore, try Doodle for getting people to put in their best dates.

As for RAM/Diane workshop, I am really not sure that I would be able to afford. So, most likely, it is a no for that. I am delighted, however, that I will be seeing him soon in Boulder when we do a smaller event with his at BCIL.

Light and Delight,
Nomali

How does Doodle work?

1. Create a poll.
2. Forward the link to the poll to the participants.
3. Follow online what the participants vote for.

Learn more

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Nomali, it will be fantastic if you are able to make it to the Sacramento gathering!  I understand your desire to lurk lately - you have given so much to the integral community, you deserve to take a break for a while if that's what you want.  :)

Thanks for the doodle suggestion, we'll keep that in mind, but I think things have already been coming together enough on the thread itself for our current purposes.

Note to all: if you'd like to hear what Diane Bardwell's music is like, check out the thread I just started with the appropriate title Diane Bardwell.  The music is fantastic streaming through the web, but for maximum effect have your heart and soul opened at a RAM workshop first…say, oh I dunno…the Sacramento workshop?  :P

spiral out,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

If anybody happens to find a diamond necklace - can you please give it back to me..?

f

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Frans,

Please see a fashion consultant. Please.

Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hello all,

July 12-13  will probably work for me.  Although it being a YEAR away, who the heck knows what will be in the works.  I will plan for those dates and keep all other commitments away.

oh, and Ewan, um, I think that necklace is Mine, can you describe it??  I am pretty sure I lost my diamond necklace recently on my last trip to visit Her Majesty.

Gina

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

He Pelle,

I can’t afford one - all my money is in that necklace (which looks very dainty on me I’ll have you know!).

f

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hey y'all

Thank you Arthur and Liz for organising for RAM's workshop!  I would love to take part in it.  My only concern is my new job is always entailing travel and I have to sort of be there one week on either side of any travel  If God is willing then I will be with all of you in Sacramento! I suspect July is better for me than August because i know we have one big work meeting in August. As someoone else said seeing you all would be so great.  even though I post much less here, you have all affected me a great deal and are in my heart.

A bow
Gitanjali

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Well, I currently have a schedule that's unclear more than a few weeks ahead.
I very much hope to be at the gathering. I suspect I won't be able to commit fully enough to secure a workshop place before they all go. If that happens, well, it's fine. I have never seen San Francisco so would volunteer to lead the raiding (sorry ,exploring) party instead:-)

I can hardly believe that will be 3 years since Boulder, I haven't seen any of you since then, though I did have that lovely weekend with Marianthi and Steven (Nickeson) who will be well known to all the IN subscribers.

THis looks like so much fun

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Well, if that's the best idea you can give us…IT'S NOT GOOD ENOUGH. At least put the intention to be here as a top priority, will ya? Sheesh.

We will, in all likelihood, have a waiting list for the workshop so that as many people as possible have the chance to participate, and so there won't be a chance of an empty spot. Arthur will remember how that worked last year, but he's sleeping at the moment.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

oh, I love the thought of seeing all of you… if there is a waiting list for the workshop, I am happy to let go of my space…just as long as Mary and I get to go dancing!
Jane

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hey Liz,

That was just my natural coyness and my gift for understatement all wrapped up together:-)

Yep the intention is there, like last time. I am also trying to hold it lightly, like last time.

I just don't want to make a financial commitment to the RAM thing before I have a plane ticket in my hand. The way the plan is developing makes it look like that will be necessary.
Anyway I like sightseeing:-)

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi all

Well, so far less than the maximum number of people have indicated interest in the workshop - not surprising since it's so far in the future at this point - so there's no need to panic about the workshop yet.  Once the date is finally confirmed - I'll email Robert shortly since the proposed date seems to be working for most people - then people will have the opportunity to reserve a spot by sending Robert a deposit.  I'll let everyone know in this thread how many slots are filled up as things go.  Once all 12 are reserved, then I'll keep track of any wait list.  And of course, if ncessary as the workshop approaches we'll go outside the pod looking for additional workshop members.  In the Vancouver gathering there were Vancouverites who wanted to participate but all the slots were taken up by Integral Naked people; luckily, all the IN people who wanted to be in the workshop were able to get in.

cheers
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Tell Robert that now is a good time to set up a Paypal account and join the 21st century :P
(I know he's been meaning to)

Cheques… grrrrr
We stopped using those decades ago in Sweden.


Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Jane wrote:  …just as long as Mary and I get to go dancing!
 

So let it be written, so let it be done!

 

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Me too!!!! me too!!!!!!!

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I'm feeling left out here.  I havent written for a while but I thought I made good enough connections for it to be worth me coming.  But noone has welcomed me.
Its pretty cliquey and that doesnt work for me.

Pelle says its cos Im not contributing. I dunno. That sounds pretty cold.

I thought things were more real than that here.

Gitanjali

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

I'm sorry you're feeling that, Gita. I didn't remember to reply but I am thrilled that you want to come. I don't agree with Pelle, if that's what he said. It's not like I've forgotten you so quickly!

Sometimes a post doesn't make it to my personal radar for various reasons. Currently, I have a really bad sore throat as a part of some unpleasant flu of some kind. So I've been lying low for several days. And I'm preoccupied with plans. Silence on my part is far more often inattention than anything else.

Several of us have been through the clique accusation before, and we've looked at it over and over.  When people meet in person they have a strong connection that's different than online, and others can see it. That's not a clique, that's friendship. I don't see this as my problem, just a reality that has been misinterpreted.

All the people on this pod are welcome to the gathering, though I might have to cap it if the numbers get really high, but that hasn't happened yet and I doubt it will. The nature of these things is that a big majority can't or won't go for whatever reason.

Do come to the gathering.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gitanjali, I'm delighted that you're hoping to make it to the gathering!

Come on up here and go dancing with me and Jane and Liz and all the other booty-shaking peeps … perhaps Pelle can treat us to a tango lesson …

I responded to your post with a smile and inward “yay!” – which of course doesn't translate onto the screen until I make the effort to do so …

And I think this happens frequently in online conversations. We really can't tell how we're being received unless someone offers an explicit response. So sometimes when we post there is that lingering sense of “did anybody hear me?” Sorry 'bout that!

Hug,
Mary

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gita. Gita. Gita

You and I have never talked directly, really, but your presence here is not unnoticed. Nor was it at IN. Part of the big draw for me this time is to meet you, mascha and jane. I don't contribute much here either, nothing like as heavily as I used to on IN but I do still read a lot. I just can't be everywhere and my time can sometimes be quite limited.

I was lucky enough to be at the first gathering in Boulder in 2005. I haven't seen anyone since and I am desperate to spend some time with Liz and Mary too. The other Liz is right, there's just something that deepens the connections face to face that is amazing. I think also if you look on these boards, Integral is very male dominated. I know lots of us feel quite isolated but in my view the reality is that it's even harder to find other women interested in this stuff. That said, when you do, they tend to be pretty amazing women that it's easy to form very firm friendships with. PLease come? 

You know, I think I got so excited at the thought of seeing old friends again that I forgot all the apprehension of the first time. PLease don't let the thought that some of us have met before put you off, you won't find anyone cliquey, there is enough love for everyone:-) I promise you that. But yes, I was apprehensive first time around……..there's nothing unusual about me, I'm kicking 50, 2 grown up kids, a husband who thinks Integral is nonsense and subversive in turns and that you are all some sort of cult trying to steal me away from my family. Yes I'm the same age as madonna but the similarities stop there:-) I was SO nervous about not being accepted, not “fitting in”, not being young, smart, thin, beautiful, spiritual enough for this amazing group of people with whom I've learned so much. Wasn't really sure they'd want the real, large as life and twice as ugly old me:-)
 
And I only had 3 days and only met a couple of the people who will be there this time round. 
I can hardly believe by next Summer even that will be 3 years ago. They did make an impression.

Oh and guys, it's lovely you are all going too and I am looking forward to meeting you, but finding other women I really share deep things with is so rare for me and such a treat that it really is a bit special, forgive me.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gitanjali:
Pelle says its cos Im not contributing. I dunno. That sounds pretty cold.

What I said has been taken severely out of context.

I meant that out of every 10 posts someone makes in the pod maybe 3-4-5 will be directly acknowledged. Therefore you cannot draw any conclusions about one or two posts seemingly being ignored. That's simply how forums work, and that is the reality all of us face.

OTOH, I do think it would be a good idea for all of us to acknowledge everyone who speaks up in this thread, considering that people are taking a leap of faith in saying that they will try to make it to the gathering.

I'm sorry you felt left out here Gitanjali, hopefully we can all learn something from that.


Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Pelle: I do think it would be a good idea for all of us to acknowledge everyone who speaks up in this thread.

Excellent points, Pelle.  Although I might rephrase this last suggestion to something like “it would be good for all of us to make sure that everyone is acknowledged (i.e. by someone)”, rather than making it sound like we should all respond individually to everyone. That may be what you meant, so apologies if I'm just nitpicking.

Of course, as you say, it's also important to be aware that not every post is going to get a response, and we should try again if we need a response before assuming we're somehow being ignored. I get the same feeling now and then, and with a bit of perseverance I pretty much always find I was just letting my insecurities get the better of me.

Cheers,

~G

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Grey,

It's interesting how through such a medium, we still get worked up about our popularity/significance to others. How we can get hurt or pumped up by getting responses…or getting attention. Over a period of time as you say, it's interesting how this perspective changes.

At the same time, it allows any and everyvoice to say whatever the heart desires without any hesitance.

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi All,
I only had time to respond to one post last night and couldn't subdue my reactivity regarding the impeachment thread!! 
Anyway, I will be in San Diego in April–so I will surely get to meet some of you then.  I know I will not be able to do the RAM workshop, but woulld love to “explore”  SF with Liz, et al.  Later July is best for me, but my firm intention is to be with you guys whenever it happens.  I really relate to what you had to say Tiki/Liz, and also feel the burning that Mary has mentioned in regards to our  cyberspace connections.  I really want to meet you all and share some local energy for a change!!
Blessings,
Chris

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Excellent Chris

It looks like we have an adventure in SF……what does a raiding party bring back as souvenirs from such a place?

Oh I know, I want to visit the shop where they do custom barbies.

For anyone who hasn't seen this, here is trailer trash barbie

http://www.stupid.com/stat/TTTR.html

And I want a walking route around the city that lets me walk DOWN all thos hills you see on TV:-)

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

If there is room left, count me in for the RAM workshop.

Never have met anyone here in this thread, so it would be a pleasure to link up and share a slice of life together!

Arthur, add me to the list!

Dan

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gita and Chris and Dan, Oh My!

So looking forward to next summer.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gitanjali, I so hear you. Your honesty pierced my heart. Goes to show that there was some degree of armoring, even though this ole' heart felt quite open this morning… especially after reading Mary's masterfully nuanced post on the Impeachment thread. 

And ditto to what Tiki-Liz said about being self-conscious. Wow, Tiki, you are something else… I'd like to be very small and live on a cotton ball inside your breast pocket for at least a week to get to know you better. That's how I've felt about you for a long time now.

And there's also this: My boyfriend and I have an agreement not to get carried away on the internet with disclosures that can hurt us and the people we're affiliated with, work-wise, reputation-wise, and privately. We're involved in shit that we think is important enough to protect. He thinks there are roughly 3 reasons for people to hang out on sites like zaadz. One, they're looking for a soulmate. Two, networking for self-promotion, selling products and services. Three, a bit more rare: sparking consciousness expansions and raising collective energy fields. I don't know… there may be more reasons you could name. What I do know is that I am so susceptible to energy hook-ups of the subtler kind, I get  crushes on men, women and beasts on the net, so help me god. Yeah, it's laughable, and I do laugh a lot when there's enough centering to be had. But I have to be careful not to neglect my friends and family, including pets, who deserve more of my time and undivided attention. And here I am again, hanging on the net instead of visiting my friend who's got cancer and isn't going to be around much longer by all accounts.

Already torn :-(  &  ;-)

M

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gita, I responded with an inner “whoo-hoo!” when you indicated interest in coming to the gathering.  As others have pointed out, such reactions don't always make it to the screen; it's one of the (many) limitations of this sort of wespace.  (The absence of so many cues that are normally present in human interaction also make this a powerful medium for exploring our own shadows; ain't it great?)

I strongly encourage people to take things to the next level by meeting in person - it's a blast!  Trust me on this.  :)  As Liz said, all podmembers are welome at the gathering.  I also continue to encourage people to meet in pairs and groups when opportunity presents or is created. 

Much agreement on the principle that it is good for someone to acknowledge contributions on the pod, especially in a thread such as this one.  That said, most people's energy and attention are stretched pretty thin, and stuff is going to slip through the radar screen.

I also can't help but comment on this:

Mascha: “I'd like to be very small and live on a cotton ball inside your breast pocket for at least a week to get to know you better.”

What a metaphor!  I'd be pretty creeped out if somebody said that to me, lol!  :)

spiral on,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Update on RAM workshop:

First, the latest list expressing interest in the workshop:

~~~~~

Liz
Arthur
Pelle
Mary
Jane
Lauren
Gina

Lucidity

Gita

Danny
Ewan (maybe)
Grey (maybe)
Colin (maybe)

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Mascha: “I'd like to be very small and live on a cotton ball inside your breast pocket for at least a week to get to know you better.”

Arthur: What a metaphor!  I'd be pretty creeped out if somebody said that to me, lol!  :)

Wow, Arthur, that felt to me like the online equivalent of being hit by a flyswatter like a bug. Honestly, even with the lol and smilie behind it.

I just hope Tiki-Liz doesn't feel that way, and if so, I'll take it back. All I meant to say was, I want to be close to your heart, Tiki dear.


M

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Mascha, if it makes you feel better, I saw him writing it, and he was laughing the whole time.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Mascha: “I'd like to be very small and live on a cotton ball inside your breast pocket for at least a week to get to know you better.”

Arthur: What a metaphor!  I'd be pretty creeped out if somebody said that to me, lol!  :)

Mascha: Wow, Arthur, that felt to me like the online equivalent of being hit by a flyswatter like a bug. Honestly, even with the lol and smilie behind it.

I just hope Tiki-Liz doesn't feel that way, and if so, I'll take it back. All I meant to say was, I want to be close to your heart, Tiki dear.

~~~~~

I got the touching “close to your heart” vibe and approve of it 110% - it also struck me as a funny metaphor, hence my joke.  Hell, I'd like to live on a cotton ball in Tiki's other breast pocket for a week!  Or MaryW's for that matter (both pre- and post-op).  :p

Hopefully y'all will come to the 2008 Gathering, where such interpersonal missteps can be caught and smoothed over in real time.  :)

spiral on,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Damn Arthur, my other pocket has been stitched up (reaches for thread and needle quick)

:-)

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Lol, Tiki-Liz, Ha! How I wish I didn't give a damn about whether you guys think I write creepy stuff. Wouldn't that be nice? What a relief for man and beast… You know, the thought of being perceived as a creep has never occurred to me, really. Everything else that is evil and negative - yes, certainly, but sickening, disgusting creepiness emanating from me?  No way!  It's like I didn't even know the part that is exactly as creepy as creeps can possibly get: The Black Mask of Twisted Death + Ghoulish Beastliness etc. etc.

Hmm, rich. I'll start another photo gallery on my blog. Filled with the best of the creepiest… Oh, crap, I'm afraid of spiders though. Still… after all these years. Loathe spiders!!!! Arthur, let's kill them all and then turn our Deathstar gaze on the rest of the creeps.


M

.

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hey, wait a minute. After dragonflies, spiders are my favourite…..and Charlotte has been a true inspiration. What was it she said to Wilber something like: “You have been my friend. In this world with all this bloodthirsty eating of flies and such, this in itself is a wonderful thing.” (I am quoting out of my head, so it might not be quite right….but still) I can’t believe in this day and age that my integral friends could still be arachnaphobes, and worse bring us together under the auspicies of a friendly, loving gathering, all the while plotting and scheming against Charlotte and all my other spinster friends… Mascha what are you thinking! This borders on diabolical! Perhaps we could work this out on mats at the RAM workshop….and then as side trip go to a bug museum to learn deeper appreciation of the situation…. Spiders…gotta love ‘em….
sending healing and love your way (but I have my limits).
Jane

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi peeps!  OK, the timing of the workshop has been finalized with Robert.

IIzaadz RAM Workshop July 12-13, 2008!

Here are the people who have expressed interest:

~~~~~

Liz
Arthur
Pelle
Mary
Jane
Lauren
Gina

Lucidity

Gita

Danny
Ewan (maybe)
Grey (maybe)
Colin (maybe)

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Great stuff Arthur, and a big whoo-hoo for the electronic payment!


Pelle

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Wow, Tiki, you are something else… I'd like to be very small and live on a cotton ball inside your breast pocket for at least a week to get to know you better. That's how I've felt about you for a long time now.


Mascha, that brought a tear to my eye. Arthur just doesn't get it. Listen, hon, if I don't lose some wight before July, that pocket will probably accommodate you:-)

Don't expect too much, I'm only me..I'm noisy, talk too much and laugh a lot. But thank you for the compliment. One of the great pleasures for me last time was what I think you meant, just hanging around and being with people in normal time. Sitting around talking (often all at once), cooking and eating together. For a gathering that other prople may think is wierd, it felt incredibly normal just to share space and real time with these folk. 

It will be FUN!!!!  But it goes deep too, because its like all the preliminaries when meeting ew people have been gone through already. There is an adjustment to make, but if I remember it takes about 10 minutes, if even that.

Liz 

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Liz is right, except she's quite modest. All of us were deeply attached to her within minutes. Plus, she has an accent you can make fun of and she's verra good natured aboot it.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Dear  Liz, Mary, TikiLiz, Mascha, Pelle, Arthur,

Thank you so much for responding with your warmth and love! I felt humbled and reassured yesterday.  But due to technical reasons (a wink) couldnt respond yesterday.  Arthur thank you for getting the dates organised so quickly it will help with booking them in! I will come god willing. And yes, meeting you guys means a whole new thing I hate and love cyberspace.  Tiki-Liz I loved your story about that first meeting and i relate to it. I feel imperfect and crazy and I still want to be loved - how unreasonable.  Now though after “spitting the dummy” and being responded to with love, I feel safer…I feel a sense…that I will be able to go deep with you folks and that that is always what i have wanted

And one more important thing, Pelle,  I want to apologise to you sincerely for taking your words out of context. 

With my love
Gitanjali

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gita,
I have been off galavanting here and there, and not paying too much attention to all the details and unfoldings in our little Zaadz community. Who is in, and who is out and who feels what…… and whether any of it is the least bit congruent to what is really going on from some lofty perspective that I rarely can see from….
I will always remember our meeting thread on IN when you so accurately pointed out the second stageness of Emma Thompson in her brilliant portrayal in Love Actually….. it was one of those moments where I had to begrudgingly unpack a certain defiant and near-fossilized tension, a keystone in my castle of resentment towards men and their unacceptable behaviour towards these women who “after all we’ve done….blah, blah, blah..how could you, blah, blah, blah.”
So, it goes without saying that we are all bringing all manner of imperfection to the gathering, all sorts of neediness, and want-to-be-seen-ness, and am-I-good-enough-ness, and I-am-NOT-good-enough-ness, and Jay-sus-I-don’t-understand-a-friggin’-thing-that-just-got-said-ness, god-I-can’t-seem-to-stop-talking-ness…. but/ and oh god, how I love to see all this, and us, human and humble and radiant, and peering out through the lens of our best approximation of honesty.,…..wondering if it is possible to peer out a little deeper with even a little more attention and tenacity into all of THIS…
It must be like the animals in a Labrador forest waking up after a huge snowstorm, slowly rising their heads out of the coverings, poking above the landscape, having a look-see, to see what is really on the go, see if it is safe to come out and play…..look for some warm tea, that sort of thing….
oh, but how I do love us…… and can’t say how much I look forward to seeing all of these constellated molecules that have managed to somehow appear on this screen by flapping fingers…and have in the process opened and changed my life. How amazing is that!
love Jane

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi Everyone

I wish I could commit more solidly to the RAM workshop, I really, really want to do it, but I don't feel I can at the mo - maybe my hand will be forced if the places start to fill up.

I'm just back from the inaugral UK iNext reatreat - fucking awesome.  We had a fabulous time, the we space in the group grew, melded and deepened - creating a quite winderful friendship.  I'm struggling to come back to the bitter taste of this online medium after such a powerful weekend, but its also reinforced my desperation to meet you all properly!!!

Feelin' the love…


Ewan

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Wow…I can feel it though your post Ewan….(and it helps that Im listening to Nickelback - I'm alive).

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Facing your pain in psychotherapy

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hey Arthur i too definitely want to do the workshop and the gathering and fly all the way from sunny UK to see you all!

So count me in and let me know how i pay the deposit to register.

Love

Steve

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Steve: Hey Arthur i too definitely want to do the workshop and the gathering and fly all the way from sunny UK to see you all!

~~~

Great, Steve!  The more the merrier.  It's especially cool when people want to travel a long way to gather with their fellow integral zaadzsters.  :)

Steve: So count me in and let me know how i pay the deposit to register.

The gathering has no cost, you just need to show up.   As for the workshop, as of August 18, a total of 13 people have indicated varying degrees of interest and intention; the maximum the workshop can hold is 12.  As of now I'll be adding a wait list.  People on the initial list have priority for now, and have the opportunity to send deposit checks for $200 to Robert via snail mail (send me a Zaadz PM/mail for his address) to secure the spot.  In the near future Robert will have a store on his site where you can give a deposit by electronic means.  Once the store is active, people on the first list will have about a month to get a deposit to Robert before people on the wait list have a chance to secure a spot.

RAM Workshop: Priority List

~~~~~

Liz
Arthur
Pelle
Mary
Jane
Lauren
Gina

Lucidity

Gita

Danny
Ewan (maybe)
Grey (maybe)
Colin (maybe)

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi all

Robert now has paypal set up on his site (check out his spiffy new store); however, it's not a good idea to put a payment option directly on the site, because then members of the general public (eww) would be able to jump the queue and sign up for this workshop - which of course is intended for the IIzaadz ubermensch.  So what they would prefer is to have people email them at info@robertmasters.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">info@robertmasters.com; they will send an invoice which allows you to pay through paypal directly.  Very easy process.

Please send in a $200 deposit as soon as possible (and let me know when you've done so).  People on the intial list will have the opportunity to secure their spot by sending in a deposit between now and the end of October; after that it'll open up to people on the wait list. 

Looking forward to seeing you at the gathering and/or workshop!  :)

cheers
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi Arthur

I'm very keen to attend the RAM workshop; I really resonate with his writing…I just want to let you know that my travel-for-work schedule wont be finalised until next year (it involves travelling nearly every month…and depends on the views of people in other countries). 

At the moment I feel I cant afford to really whack down $200 and let that go if its not used…

SO i'm feeling abit :(  (sigh)

about possibly missing out.  However if my intuition tells me to go for it, I will

Warmest and hope to see you and all next year
Gitanjali

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gita, Arthur is currently sleeping off a fabulous trip to San Francisco we had yesterday, but I'll point him towards this thread as as soon as he's functional.

Liz

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Gita: I'm very keen to attend the RAM workshop; I really resonate with his writing…I just want to let you know that my travel-for-work schedule wont be finalised until next year (it involves travelling nearly every month…and depends on the views of people in other countries). 

At the moment I feel I cant afford to really whack down $200 and let that go if its not used…

~~~~~

First off, Liz and I really want you to be there - so try hard to make it!

Secondly, please know that if you put down a deposit, it secures your place, but if you can't make it the only way you'd lose your deposit is if the spot couldn't be filled - and Liz and I find it hard to imagine that happening unless someone cancels really close to the time of the workshop. 

Liz and I were going to attend a 2-day couples workshop in late June, but in a suckalicious development of kosmic proportions we had to cancel only a week before.  Luckily, Robert and Diane were able to fill the spot with a couple on the wait list, so the deposit we put down will count towards the 2008 Sacramento workshop instead (or, I suppose, we could have gotten it back - but that didn't even occur to us, since we knew we'd want to do a different workshop instead).

So my recommendation would be to put the deposit down if that's what your heart is telling you to do (it's what my heart and Liz's heart are telling you to do), and trust in the kosmic currents.

metta,
arthur

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hey Arthur and Liz,
thank you very much for your warm response!

OK Im happy that it works that way and I am putting my money down for it and going with them cosmik currants…

Blessings
Gitanjali

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

Hi all

Steve has requested that I put his wife Anna on the wait list as well; so the revised lists are:

RAM Workshop: Priority List

~~~~~

Liz          (deposit received)
Arthur    (deposit received)
Pelle
Mary
Jane
Lauren
Gina

Lucidity

Gita

Danny
Ewan (maybe)
Grey (maybe)
Colin (maybe)

Re: Integral Gathering + RAM Workshop 2008 - Plan Now!

This thread is starting to become long, so on Arthur's request I've started a fresh one. All discussions will be held in the new thread, this one is now locked.

Pelle
(mod)