A “haiku” is a simple three line form of poetry with a syllabic pattern of 5-7-5. On the surface, it is about something we see in nature. But at its core a haiku unveils something profound and treasured – that which resonates with one’s heart. In the end it is not about the words; it is about what happens when we truly take the time to pay attention and notice.

“In paying attention to small things, the haiku poet honors the sacredness of everyday life.” -- Margaret D. McGee, author of Haiku – the Sacred Art

The process of writing haiku, and illustrating it if you like, awakens our senses and opens us to the beauty and wonder of the moment. Through this playful art form we have the opportunity to realize our deep connection to the natural world, the Creator, and each other.

Come relax and have fun. Our guide will be Trish Stefanik, an artist and contemplative retreat leader. As a resident of Rolling Ridge Study Retreat Community and a caretaker of Friends of Silence, she has delighted in the inspiration of the surrounding mountain wilderness.

For more information, see www.friendsofsilence.net, email lindsay.rollingridge@gmail.com, or call 304-724-1069.

The retreat fee is $165, which includes 2 nights lodging, all meals, and program materials. Please send a $50 deposit (checks payable to Friends of Silence) to: FOS Retreat Ministry, c/o Lindsay McLaughlin, 120 Jubilee Lane, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. Retreatants are welcome to arrive and settle in anytime after 4:00 pm on Friday. Our program will begin with dinner at 6:30 pm and end with lunch at noon on Sunday.

We are located on 1400 acres of nature preserve in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, near Harpers Ferry, less than two hours from the Washington-Baltimore area.