I arrived at the Brilla Women’s Retreat with an open mind and almost no knowledge of religion or the Bible. It simply wasn’t a path I had ever wandered down.
But sometimes the paths we least expect can leave the deepest impression.
I couldn’t understand most of the words during the singing, but I didn’t need to. The emotion, joy and energy in the room swept me along. During the sermons I used a translator, which allowed me to understand the messages being shared.
The themes were surprisingly universal: family, communication, listening, supporting our children and having the courage to ask for help. We were reminded that everyone experiences difficult times, and there is no shame in feeling overwhelmed. We should never face those moments alone—reach out to God, to family and to your community.
Another message was that faith is ultimately a personal choice. God can offer love, trust, peace and guidance, but the decisions we make remain our own.
There were beautiful dancers, laughter, singing and, as a lovely keepsake, every woman received a little silver Brilla charm. Marilyn’s daughter took part in all the activities, adding another special connection to the weekend.
Perhaps the message that touched me most was to the women of the congregation to be proud of being a woman—a seed nurtured into something strong, capable of producing beautiful fruit, and then having the love and wisdom to nurture and guide that fruit as it grows.
I walked away uplifted, a little wiser and incredibly grateful to have been welcomed into Brilla.
I may not have understood every word, but I understood the feeling.
Joy, kindness, community and connection need no translation.
Sometimes you simply have to walk through a door you never expected to open… and see what is waiting on the other side.
