I first heard Carolyn's name in a Brugh workshop. He was telling a story about her incredible intution: they were shopping for camping chairs in a small hardware store; he owner said he didn't have any, but Carolyn assured him that he did and was able to intuit exactly where they were in the back of the shop! I knew, as soon as I heard that story, that I had to meet her.
I signed up for a workshop on Creativity & intition at the ranch - the start of a new and important chapter in my life. Carolyn offered me a mentorship (in a way that felt truly magical) and so began 18-months of spending time with her, from LA to NYC, Mexico, the Ranch and Wisconsin.
I learned so much in that time. I had always trusted my intution, but Carolyn took that to new levels. She also taught me to trust my sensitivity: that it wasn't weakness to adapt my life to take it into account. I remember her saying that she couldn't stand shopping centres, and acupuncture was a form of torture, because she was simply too sensitive! This was so Carolyn: she'd share something in what seemed like a casual way, but nothing was ever casual, everything had meaning and came from having seen something very deep in you.
Carolyn was a role-model of generosity and trust. Her wisdom and gentle encouragement was a gift for which I'll be forever grateful. There are several snippets of wisdom she shared which I come back to over and over in my life. These conversations live on in me, and I know that - even now - I can always find her wise counsel in meditation. I can, and do, talk with her all the time.
I really hoped to be at the memorial, but my 4-year old starts school a few days before, and after much reflection I have decided that I need to be at home to support him. I will mark the day in a ceremony here in the UK, and will be thinking of the memorial and Carolyn with much love.
Carolyn, thank you for your love, support, care, wisdom and generosity. I miss you and love you. Thank you for all you shared with me. You changed my life, and live on in my heart. May you rest in peace, gentle soul.