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2023 FMW Conference Report

July 07, 2023  /  Leave a Comment  /  Trackback  /  Posted in News

2023 FMW Conference Report

Despite several significant diverse challenges, we were pleased to be able to host a unique conference whose easeful intimacy provided the space for deep meditations and sharing. There were three newcomers, one traveling the greatest distance—from Walla Walla, WA.

Aaron Haas, who now also resides in the state of Washington returned, this time as Keynote Speaker on Music and Meditation—his two greatest passions. His presentation revealed dimensions of music that enhanced our understanding and appreciation. As Beethoven remarked, “Music is the mediator between the spiritual and sensual life.” Aaron also played his classical guitar at our Round Table gatherings, finding the views across the valley inspiring.

Ron Leonard talked about the problematic nature of seeking the goal of Realizing Consciousness without-an-Object and without-a-Subject, given Franklin’s pronouncement, “I am already That which I seek, and therefore there is nothing to be sought.” Last year’s talk on Non-Duality emphasized the Awakening Model, whereas this year explored the Developmental Model. Since it is paradoxical to attempt to attain That which one already is, we concluded by circumventing the intellect with a guided meditation based on Ron’s Philosophy Logo—symbolizing the philosopher’s spiritual quest.

Doroethy Leonard gave an account of her life growing up under the profound influence of Franklin and Sherifa. She was just one year old when Franklin was Enlightened. While she was a young girl, she attended “camp” with Franklin’s students during the building of the Ashrama. As she was making the transition to adulthood, Franklin gave her Carl G. Jung’s Memories, Dreams and Reflections, with significant impact. In mid-life, she formalized her commitment to Franklin and the Work that he and Sherifa had established. It continues to this day.

Special Features—This year attendees chose the quotations by Franklin that they found most meaningful or inspirational. Sharing and discussing what we regard as personally valuable in these formulations of Franklin’s thought and philosophy was synergistic, enriching us all. The Closing Ceremony—Baiba Strads’ group Sufi Dance, on the theme of healing—moved some to tears. Also, we conducted a Healing Circle, for those in our lives who have a need, for ourselves, and for the Planet. The Dream and Tarot Circles introduced a further dimension, but privacy prevents revealing its content.

Special thanks to Doroethy’s son James Young and his life partner, Jessica Roberts, for their support managing the GSC facilities, organizing and preparing meals—including two versions of his famous chili—and for upgrading the solar batteries at the Main House. Also, most pertinently for this year, they detected and sealed the cracks in the Main House ceiling to quell the moth invasion.