A Day for Retreat- The Halfway Point

 

Leadership Curriculum this past Monday gave us the opportunity to reflect on everything up to this - the halfway point. I think this was exactly what we needed after the busy weekend! 

 

We rated all (32!!) speakers we have had the privilege of hearing and reflected on our goals up to this point. Having completed my ‘Leadership Moment’, I was happy to have been able to tick some goals off my list.

 

Speakers on the day included Linda Murray (no relation!) from Solas Nua Cultural Center and David Markey from Imagination Stage (a multi-disciplinary theatre arts organization), who gave an interesting insight into the arts scene in DC. Both natives of Ireland, Linda and David provided interesting comparisons between Ireland and DC in relation to theatre and culture. This was a more informal discussion to what we are used to and I think everyone was more comfortable, especially given we were allowed the rare opportunity to wear dress code 3! The words of Linda and David triggered great interest in the group and everyone agreed that it was a pity we didn’t have the time to speak with them at greater length. 

 

Next up was Psychology Professor, Richard Margolies, who gave us the low-down on the popular President Lincoln. This was an interesting case study where the professor drew parallels between Presidents Lincoln and Obama, highlighting their success despite coming from unconventional families. We learned a lot about Lincoln’s rise to the top and his interpretation of leadership. Brian (the WIP class’ human encyclopedia) initiated further discussion with the professor that added to the content of the talk. 

 

We were all delighted to get out in the fresh, albeit humid, air at 5pm to start our ‘Cultural Exchange’ workshop organised by the task force group on that topic. Rosie had prepared an interesting folder on the murals in Northern Ireland, which are associated with ‘The Troubles’. It was fascinating hear her thoughts and Emma even added her tour guide experience to give us a greater understanding of the subject. 

 

Then, we moved on to ‘open mic’- which was one of the most enjoyable parts of the program thus far - we have a very talented bunch of people! Among my favourites was our resident rock-star, Ian, who gave an incredible acoustic and unique performance of the Oasis classic, ‘Wonderwall’. I think it’s fair to say everyone was beyond impressed by his performance and I certainly look forward to hearing more from him and his band ‘The Lynchburg Mob’ (plug!). Masana of SAWIP is my idol; she is an extremely talented poet and I absolutely love her work and ability to perform! She presented another one of her masterpieces with the help of beat-box legends, Sibs and Melvyn! And my MT leader, Ciarán gave an amazing rendition of ‘The Rattlin’ Bog’, which really got everyone involved and gave us all a great laugh! 

 

Some of the Irish went back to our childhood and had a good old game of ‘Red Rover’, bita bant as I’d say myself, despite nearly breaking Anne and McR’s arms with my determination to break through (sorry guys!). 

 

All in all, it was a brilliant day that brought the group even closer. Special thanks to Anya, Nuala, Colleen, Emma and Ciara who provided great pizza and chats after the event!

 

 

 

 

 

Ruth Murray Bio.