Opportunities for New Experiences

Along with the scheduled meeting times, there were opportunities for the group to meet in a variety of settings. We shared biscuits in a country tea house; had supper on a cattle farm; celebrated occasions such as birthdays, Christmas and Valentine's Day with theme parties; enjoyed coffee in a home setting; and traveled together several hours to take part in a women's wellness conference. Each of the opportunities offered participants a chance to explore new settings and broaden their knowledge and language base. The change of setting was also a chance to see how the women carried themselves outside of the regular meeting room, and to allow them the security of the group while engaging in a new activity.

Two of the women were initially hesitant to take part in the outings but then attended and spoke positively about the experience. Each time they had expressed hesitation I reviewed in detail what the activity would involve; what they could expect to see, feel and hear; how they were expected to dress; and if there was a cost involved. The private conversation usually ended with a statement such as "I trust you so I'll go; I am not used to this but I trust you."

Attending a Conference

When the opportunity arose to take the group to a women's wellness conference in another community, the timing was perfect. The group had been together long enough that traveling together for two hours was feasible and I was confident that the women were ready to venture into uncharted territory. In preparation for the trip, I spoke individually with the women and then to the group. I was curious to know their expectations. What were their fears? How did they foresee the day unfolding? What were they looking forward to? What did they hope to come away with?

Many of the women exhibited a general trust that I was leading them into a positive experience. Few revealed apprehensions. I was somewhat surprised by this. I myself had apprehensions about the day and I found it curious that they did not. My own apprehension included concerns about how the women would feel being away from home. Would they feel comfortable? Would they tire easily of each other after an entire day together? Would the experience be positive for them? I wanted to offer the experience to the women to stretch their comfort zones even further. Was I making the right call?