As I reflect on my experience of the Kairos retreat, I find myself deeply moved by the moments of silence, and connection that I had both with myself and others.
Throughout the retreat, I was given the opportunity to pause and slow down in a way that is so rare in the busyness of everyday life. The chance to reflect on my relationship with God, my community, and my own identity has been a very good experience.
One of the most powerful aspects of the retreat was the time spent in silence. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the power of simply being still. For me, this silence allowed me to listen and reflect peacefully on my life and it drew me closer to God. I was able to reflect on my life, my purpose, and my relationship with God in a way that I had not allowed myself to before. I realized how much I have been carrying, how many distractions have clouded my ability to hear God’s voice, and how much I need to let go of to fully embrace the present moment.
The presentations and small group discussions were also incredibly impactful. Hearing others share their struggles, their doubts, and their hopes created a sense of vulnerability and openness that I had never expected. I felt seen, understood, and supported in a way that made me feel less isolated in my journey.
In reflecting on my spiritual journey, I realized how often I focus on my shortcomings and mistakes. The retreat helped me see that God’s love is unconditional and never-ending, no matter how far I may stray or how imperfect I may feel. I was reminded of the power of grace and forgiveness not just from God, but from others as well as from myself. I don’t have to be perfect to be loved. This realization has allowed me to begin to let go of my self-criticism and embrace a more compassionate, loving view of myself.
As I move forward from this retreat, I am committed to continuing the practice of silence and reflection in my daily life. I want to carry the lessons I’ve learned with me about vulnerability, community, and grace. This retreat has been a reminder that, despite life’s challenges, I am not alone. God is with me, and I have a loving community to turn to for support.
Ultimately, K-16 has deepened my understanding of God’s presence in my life and helped me to see that every moment is an opportunity for growth, transformation, and connection. I am grateful for the chance to reflect, learn, and grow during this retreat, and I look forward to carrying these lessons into the rest of my life.
Joshua Evans ROBINSON
Class of 2026