This past fall we were blessed by the return of Joanna Macy to The Ojai Foundation.  Joanna Macy, one of the great elders of our time, came to lead a 7-day Intergenerational Intensive in "The Work That Reconnects." Over 50 participants, ranging from 8-months old to eighty attended, including more than a handful of inspiring, young activists in the social justice and environmental movements. The weather cooperated perfectly and the retreat had a profound impact on all who attended. Please read on for what Joanna said about her return visit to Ojai as well as testimonials from some of the participants.

"It's been a while since I've been back and words can't express the beauty of this place. There is so much in our world today that we are losing... because there is not enough money allocated to it or because there is not enough human energy and time given to preserving it.  There is just so much we're losing.  And so to come  to a place like Ojai, which has been a source of strength and teachings.... the way of council... listening to the land...learning to listen to each other....and to find that it's flourishing! That people have been faithful! So in addition to its beauty, that's what Ojai means to me now.

It represents faithfulness...that we can cherish what we love and learn ways of cherishing.  Maybe we've all learned that in these days together...the cherishing of each other and our world. "     ~ Joanna Macy, November 2009

The week was SO magical and powerful, in ways that I could never have imagined.  My time at Ojai was so enlivening and joyful! I know that my experience was in large part a result of the energy, intention and love being held and shared by those of you who are working and co-creating on the land.  ~ Deanna Corvalho

Thank you all for what you shared with me. I am deepened and widened, emboldened and emblazed by you.  ~ Karen Hesli

I discovered again the power of youth voices. There were a group of 20-something youth at the retreat who spoke with power, truth, joy and love. The world needs to hear their voices. One phrase from them about their concern about the future is better than a million words from me. ~ Victor Bremson

I have rarely been in a large group where each person was so endlessly fascinating, talented, bright, actively contributing, multi layered and modest. ~Aviva Gold

It was truly amazing! With each exchange, either one-on-one or in the group, every one of you helped to reinstate my faith that we are all interconnected, and that we can make a difference. Thank you! ~ M'Lissa

What a beautiful week it was and what deep places were touched within me!I am on fire for this work and looking for ways and places to share it.  ~ Maja Daniels

I've come to think of us as the Ojai Warriors.  I am so grateful and blessed to be woven with you.  May the strength and blessed relatedness increase in us all, ~ Omar Zubaedi