What people say about Be Present

From Bay Area Sisters & Allies
Leadership Project March Retreat 2001

“Opening to the possibility that there is a network/organization where people stick through process and deal with their own issues.”

“Yet another opportunity to connect with other women across racial/class lines in a deep and meaningful way.”

“A way to practice what I believe to be true. And that is that if I am true to myself everything will come into place.”

From youth

“I felt free to express myself, be heard and not be judged.”

“I got to be with my Mom more and learned to tell her how I feel.”

“I learned a lot and now when I have a problem I will voice it.”

“I got encouragement – a process and a place to talk about my dreams and fears – a way to keep thinking even when I get overwhelmed or very disappointed. I have been able to achieve a lot of what I want in my life.”

From Training-of-Trainer’s
Quarterly Intensive: Power & Class

“This was the revolution I had been searching for my whole life. The truth of our selves out loud. People being present with themselves and each other. An absolute foundation of respect in listening and in speech whenever possible, not leaving anyone out or silencing anyone. The real simple deal, no tricks with mirrors and smoke and hype but a road revealed.”

“Greater self-awareness, greater ability to hear and support others even when what they are saying touches on my own areas of vulnerability, greater understanding of the lives of women who are different from me.”

"Continued reassurance that taking risks does result in movement. A much keener awareness of the class issues I have and others carry around on a daily basis through statements and comments. Greater awareness of me, my thoughts, beliefs, family experiences around the issues of power & class."

“More consciousness around my relationship to entitlement; more awareness of both conscious and unconscious ways that I act because of it. Recognizing the ability to make different choices, feeling the devastation of when I act out of an unconscious state. Stronger relationships across class. Less intimidation when relating across class.”

“I have really been able to move through some difficult stuff. Oddly, I am a much better worker in my various roles and I have been able to bring more of myself to my whole life, as I have been learning that there is space for us all. I also now know that I can pretty much relate to anyone on a human level if I will allow myself. The more I do this work, along with my spiritual stuff - the more free I become. Free to speak truth.”

“This training provides a safe place for you to experience and share your feelings with others in a way that leads to self growth and empowerment.”