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2015 FMW Conference Report

August 12, 2015  /  Leave a Comment  /  Trackback  /  Posted in News

The 2015 Franklin Merrell-Wolff Conference was a great success. It seemed that each person left feeling that they had gained significant spiritual value from it. There was male-female balance and ages ranged from senior to high school senior (Sara, Doroethy’s youngest granddaughter). New members brought a depth and energy that harmonized well, and returning members stepped forward to contribute in different and creative ways—such as the delicious chili that James (Doroethy’s middle son) prepared for dinner.

The group reading of “The Supreme Adventure” at our Opening Ceremony set the theme for the event. We became true participants—not merely attendees.

Ron’s talk on symbols (pointer concepts) began with a general understanding of the nature of symbols, then illustrated with examples ranging from The Tree of Life to the Swastika to Franklin’s mandala. Other members then expressed the significance they felt concerning the symbolic item they had chosen to bring, opening a further dimension for us through their personal understanding.

Doroethy related her experience growing up with Franklin and Grandmother (Sherifa) not only as her grandparents, but as her spiritual mentors. She expressed her personal insights into their influence on her development from her unique and invaluable perspective. It resulted in a lifelong commitment to preserve Franklin’s philosophy and to continue his Work.

Her daughter Jennifer brought the group closer through a dyadic exercise for working through our barriers. It helped us to move from anger through hurt, fear and remorse to love.

Three ‘volunteers’ had been invited to give short presentations, followed by discussion. It was a surprisingly effective way for us to engage them and their spiritual perspectives.

At our Closing Ceremony, Baiba used heart-centered Sufi dance and song that moved us deeply. What a wonderful balance for the weekend!

Doroethy’s daughter Dana arranged the music for our other activities. It often evoked a meditative silence.

Our Round Table discussions were quite delightful, allowing for an unusual degree of sharing that bonded us more closely. Although the Supreme Adventure as a quest for Enlightenment is thought to be a solitary journey, we found that by sharing our unique paths it enhanced our appreciation for those of others and understanding the Path, as such…and afforded a sense of mutual support.