There is nothing more contagious than the joy of a child. By the same token kids are generally able to feel the full spectrum of the energy in emotions. In the extraordinary miracle of each moment they know so much more than their words can express. How could I learn and be with these young ones?

There are many problems in our society that are directly related to immature masculinity. The evening news is full of these stories about gangs, drugs, murder, alcohol, rape, spouse and child abuse. Less often do we hear the stories that are just as big about other types of violence such as disrespect for women, intimacy and nature.

These are signs of a culture that has lost the web of understanding once taught and nurtured by wise and initiated men who know how to honor the transition of boy to adolescent to man. For thousands of years it was the duty of an entire community of men to initiate and watch over the development of the boys within their community. The fathers and mothers need the oversight of community members.

We are part of a revival of men around the globe who have awakened to the problem. Our mission is to create a place through special learning events where the boys can grow. We provide achievable challenges that in turn lead to self confidence and a feeling of success. We teach them in the environs of the natural world of the outdoors. They learn teamwork, self-reliance, trust, and how to care for themselves. Check out our Schedule here.

Family assessments will assist in placing boys in developmentally appropriate groups. The fee for this pre-work is $50. We want the parents or guardians involved. Fees for the week-ends are $275, which includes all meals except Sunday evening.

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Children know so well now to revere, hold, share and tell stories about these treasures, and I am gifted to enter that space with them.

The most profound method for teaching respect and tolerance comes through music and movement. Children touch in to the intent of each dance easily learning about various cultures through simple sounds and words.

"If we are to reach real peace in the world,
We shall have to begin with the children;
And if they will grow up in their natural innocence,
We won't have to struggle;
We won't have to pass fruitless ideal resolution,
But we shall go from love to love and peace to peace,
Until at last all the corners of the world are covered
With that peace and love for which consciously or
Unconsciously, the whole world is hungering."
Ghandi

The idea of cultivating peace through children who do it naturally, is connected to the vision of The LifeWorks Institute that we can create a world to which all people want to belong.

We have chosen to focus with children through games and dances shared among cultures and communities and within existing systems such as local schools and churches. There is a worldwide network, "Dancing with Children", that offers teaching, and experiences. Our models come out of this growing endeavor to be with kids as they connect with their hearts in ways that are natural and graceful with the natural world and with all of our planet. Within this context there are no barriers or separations, only the convergence of peaceful energy.

Contact us if you are interested in one of our programs: storytelling, sacred walks, circle dances and singing.