A Season of Reflection, Rest, and Gratitude
- Jessica Merritt
- Nov 10
- 2 min read
The mountain feels different this time of year. The air is crisp, most of the leaves have fallen, and the glamping retreat area is quiet. The horses stand peacefully in the golden light of the afternoon, their breath rising like clouds in the cool air. It is a time to pause, to look around, and to feel deep gratitude for the year that has passed and for the many hearts that have helped make it possible.
At the Special Liberty Project, this season always brings reflection. We think about the lives that have been touched, the families who have found connection and comfort, and the beautiful moments of healing that have taken place in these fields and barns. Every retreat and every session has its own story, and together they form a tapestry of hope woven with care, compassion, and community.
None of this could happen without the countless people who give so selflessly of their time, their skills, and their resources. We are endlessly thankful for the volunteers who help muck stalls, feed and groom our horses, mend fences, and maintain the paddock spaces so that our Healing Herd can continue to do their important work.
We are grateful for those who prepare delicious and nutritious meals and desserts for our retreats, filling bellies and hearts with nourishment and love. We appreciate the creative souls who lead mindful and therapeutic workshops such as pottery, sewing, painting, woodworking, candle making, herbal crafting, and jewelry design. Each of these experiences brings our guests comfort, joy, and a sense of discovery.
We are thankful for the kind hands that help with gardening and planting, keeping the farm beautiful and vibrant throughout the changing seasons. To those who offer their talents in massage therapy, yoga, music, storytelling, photography, and even simple acts like lighting the bonfire or setting up chairs, please know how deeply appreciated you are.
Behind every retreat and every moment of connection is a team of people who believe in this mission, who show up again and again with open hearts. Some serve quietly in the background, while others lead with laughter and energy, but all are part of something extraordinary.
As the days shorten and the fires move indoors, we rest and reflect with full hearts. We sip warm cups of tea, breathe deeply, and spend quiet moments with our horses, allowing them to simply be horses for a while. We prepare for a new season of service and begin planning another year of meaningful experiences for those who have given so much.
This season of gratitude reminds us that healing does not happen in isolation; it happens in community. And this community is a shining example of what it means to care, to serve, and to give back. To everyone who has volunteered, donated, attended an event, or offered words of encouragement, thank you. You are the heart of this mission, and we could not do this without you. We invite you to join us in a day of community and connection on Dec. 6th. Please see HERE for more details on our Holidays with the Horses event.
