Luke Greenwood   •   2017

The chilly air sucked at our warm bodies. The moonlight formed cool outlines of our sweatshirts and hoodies. As we walked silently inside, I could hear the wind howling, peeling at the windows. The weathered floor was empty except for a single candle placed in the center of the room and as we slowly sat down, the door was shut, insulating our collective heartbeat from the stormy night.

It was the final night of Destiny, a retreat that has been taken by ECHS juniors for 40 years. A purposeful departure from our normal lives. No phones. No internet. Only dedicated time for honest self-reflection and sincere discussion. We spent two days sharing personal stories and exploring meaningful topics like Identity, Forgiveness, and Agape. It was like I was meeting my friends again for the first time, with new eyes and a deeper understanding.

We settled around the candle, and as each of our names were called, we rose to receive a box. Lifting the lid of my own box, my flashlight beam revealed a stack of letters. As I examined more closely, I realized each was from a different person in my life – my parents, brother, teachers, friends, and neighbors from both the past and present – each telling me in their own way that I was loved. Some were humorous, others were serious, but every word was heartfelt. With every sentence, I felt a weight lift. I cried – joyfully, deeply and completely. Looking up, I realized I was not alone. People I had known for years, alongside those I had never spoken to… all with their own tears reflecting off their cheeks. In that transformative moment, I witnessed the power of acceptance.

Destiny taught me how deep a well of complexity exists within every one of us. We all tend to keep so much of ourselves locked away. I now make an effort to open up more often and to reach out to those I do not know, especially if they are alone. I have found that every person has a story to share and with each, I am inspired. I have become unrestrained in the people I connect with and take greater pleasure in celebrating our differences. By engaging with others, I can better understand my own ideas and perspectives, as well as gain awareness of the diverse world around me.

While Destiny was a retreat lasting only a weekend, the change I feel within is lasting. I choose love. I choose acceptance. I choose to listen. This is my destiny.