The retreat theme acknowledges we need allies in cultivating awareness, something outside our normal self structure but available, in spite of the personality. Aspiration/ faith are the first of these.
Regarding the aggregates of existence (form; preferences; perceiving; mental activity; knowing) as areas we can open around. Shifting from identification and ownership to just happening activities for greater freedom and well-being.
Understanding and engaging with energies we bring into a retreat can help us to be aware of and shed reactions to them. This transition is an important learning opportunity.
