There was magic to be found amongst those tall pines, thicket, and bramble that sunny day, and Sunnybrae certainly lived up to its name – the glowing orbs in the photos seem to capture the sunbeams. As August came to close and those balmy summer days started to wane, so did my time in the volunteer program. Over the course of three months, I watched three different groups of twenty volunteers come and go, each experiencing their own journey. Many of us, fueled from positive experiences in the program, made way for more joy and bliss in our daily lives. Some went back to their hometowns refreshed from the change of pace, others (myself included) embarked on exciting new paths that led to new friendships, deep relationships, and profound life changes. If you find yourself in the service of others, take heed; it just may change your life. It’s been almost a year since my first trip to Cortes, and I’ve looked back often to remember those brilliant summer days: memories of my adventurous twenty-something self, reveling in the sweet fruits of love and life, excited about life’s infinite possibilities. Most importantly, I will never forget that special moment in time, dancing with my good karma in that little sunlight blueberry patch. Bio Note Marlie Centawer is a Certified Yoga Instructor, holistic chef, scholar, artist, writer and health activist passionate about sharing the creative potentials of plant-based cuisine through education. Her particular interests include the relationship between yoga and nutrition for nourishing the mind, body, and spirit. Connect with her at: http://www.barefootandfrolicking.com
CHICKPEA MAGAZINE SUMMER 2013
19