The concept was simple; I step out of my comfort zone and usual environment for a few days, travel to a new place (ie to me) and open my mind to learning a few new tricks to wrinting. Sounds simple right!?? It came up in a newsfeed (maybe on LinkedIn?), so I googled, checked and verified Anika Molesworth because the retreat had definitely tweaked my curiosity, plus, I needed to take a break from the heaviness of work and the concept of a structured writing retreat was attractive.

Anika’s website is here: http://www.anikamolesworth.com

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I mean, where are we in this life with nature? I feel that the world is a mess and the love has gone.

It’s draining when humans are caught up in this almost non existant compassion level that currently surrounds us/me/the news feed. So with my family and friends (fellow friendly humans who get fewer and fewer each year) scattered, nature became the go to for the promise of shaping (reshaping?) my thinking and getting me back on track and positive.

Since childhood, nature is my ‘holiday’.

To immerse and soak in nature, is rejuvinating. From lakes to oceans and trees or scrub, or even rivers, sand and hills, I have always felt good after being surrounded by their beauty. You only have to peak out the front door and you will see where our colours, designs and sounds all come from.

But, nature is also under attack and needs us. I’ve watched the movies such as Bob Browns ‘Giants’, and David Attenborough’s ‘Ocean’ to know us humans can do better.

So why did I come?

To sharpen my observation, language, and perspective. You don’t just learn and write words… you see and feel differently.

As I generally say (and use as my tag line on LinkedIn); you notice, listen, learn, then piece it all together and write.

I’m with the right people on this retreat and my ears prick up to the words relayed; the environment in Broken Hill is harsh, challenging, unpredictable, and occasionally inconvenient (flies included).

So, after a few days, “it”, my writing, is flowing again (yah). Sure there were some personally fatiguing moments during the retreat, we can’t all be creative 24/7 but it worked perfectly for me. In fact, I recommended a longer time away or a masterclass; one that would include day walks and other such events.

There’s a wonderful thing that happens when you realise you are in alignment with others who are equally curious, reflective, and open to growth as you.

After you stop crying at the overwhelming beauty that lies in that realisation of connection with other humans, especially after feeling like an alien for so long, it lifts you to consider your life journey and what really lies next.

If this resonates, it’s worth looking up and following Anika Molesworth in Broken Hill (and her mum Lindy) and to stay tuned into what might be in store for my own future. –Charlie

PS I’m no longer the “selfie queen” going by the following pictures!