Awakenings is a weekend retreat designed to encourage participants to reflect on themselves, their spirituality , and their values.
Although not much can be detailed due to it being a very private experience, students (sophomore and above) can sign up now before spots fill up completely.
There is also talk of spots being open for first years that have attended the Quest retreat.
The event is happening starting Friday April 5 through Sunday, April7, and payment is $45, which accounts for housing and food for the weekend.
When interviewing sophomore Matthew Foley said, “It’s a great experience for all students regardless of their situation, faith, or personal values. It’s a great opportunity to reconnect with yourself and reflect.”
The event may cost money, but there is financial aid assistance for those in need. In my opinion, Awakenings seems like a fun outdoor retreat for students to really express yourself freely.
In light of everything that is happening on campus and how upset some members of the SXU community are, Awakenings would be a beneficial opportunity for students to reflect on themselves and take a step back from reality.
Before I signed up, I was afraid my personal faith would not be allowed, but as Foley states, “It’s an open space for everyone! No matter your religious affiliation or personal beliefs, everyone is welcome.”
I feel as if everyone needs to reconnect with themselves in whatever way that means to them.
This could mean spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, and more. Awakenings provides a safe space where people can recollect their thoughts.
Personally, it is always nice to be able to self-reflect and allow myself to feel everything that is bottled up, which I know a lot of students can relate to.
We all need a space where we can be free to be ourselves. Campus may seem like the ideal location, but it is not always the best place for students to get experience as well as be open to vulnerability.
Students need a chance to get off campus and enjoy the experiences SXU has to offer.
Foley also commented on how beneficial the experience is as he states, “It’s very beneficial. It helped me through one of the toughest periods of my life and has helped hundreds of students in past years.”
We all find ourselves in times of heartache, sadness, and questioning. Awakenings is such an amazing experience for those who want to clarify and validate what they are feeling.
You are not alone.
And Awakenings, although run by Campus Ministry, is not all about Christianity. It is about you. It is about you becoming whole and centered.
Although spirituality is mentioned, even if you are not spiritual this experience seems to be one in a million.
I, personally, want to go to connect with fellow students and their experiences. I want to make friends and feel that I am supported.
SXU may not be a large campus, but sometimes it is easy to feel alone. This is why Awakenings is so important.
SXU provides these resources so we can connect as a community. So, sign up for awakenings on The Den.
It may be the best part of your college experience.
Emily Rubino
Opinions Editor