"Eleven years ago I was introduced to Parker Palmer’s philosophies and the “Courage and Renewal” groups that are based on his teachings. They have softened my stance in relating to others and to myself. The wisdom of the ‘Touchstones’ with which we open each session guides me through life." ~C. L.

 
"Sharing sacred space with David is Deep Grace. With profound reflective questions, poetry, and the gift of silence, David brings a richness to each moment that is rare and unique." ~D. C.

 
Courage and Renewal invites me to look at my life NOW, not with old references but what is real and true...that takes courage. Our group gives great feedback and to listen to the different responses is very exciting. David is a very sensitive leader who invites diverse views, allowing the process to unfold.
~ L.P.

 
“Having served for many years as a pastor and even longer as an advisor of university students, I have attempted to encourage the most pertinent questions. David has achieved this superbly in the times I have attended his Courage and Renewal sessions. On each occasion I left with a renewed sense of purpose and seemingly a deeper understanding of the question and often of an insight of some answers.” ~ E.R.G.

Stories of Courage

 

“The highest compliment I can offer to David Sadker is this complaint: his 90 minute C&R sessions were always over too fast. Just as I’d begin to melt and meld with the group; just as I’d be inspired to share new insights; just as I’d allow the masks I’d imposed on others begin to loosen and slip off, the session was over. David is remarkable in that he seems to be an ordinary fellow with a bit more common sense and patience than most, he is in reality a gifted catalyst, a wise alchemist whose smiling face opens closed hearts, unclenches locked minds, lubricates silent mouths. And that’s just for openers.” ~H.G., Ph.D.

“Under the sensitive and insightful leadership of Dr. David Sadker, my Courage and Renewal retreat experience was one of deep personal connection with myself as well as heart-full connection with others in our circle. Some months later, a shorter morning program about our relationship with nature resonated in a similar way and in a well chosen venue– a botanical garden! David Sadker’s choice of discussion topics and poetic entryways into our soulfulness creates a safe and nurturing oasis-like opportunity for participants. A real treat!” ~A.G-M, Ph.D.

“I believe that our hearts know many things that our minds can’t explain. Dr. David Sadker is the ideal expedition leader on that inner quest to our heart’s knowing. Poems, poignant listening and dialogue questions, personal reflection, group communion, and the Circle of Trust principles are some of his instruments that show us the way along the path to our deeper selves. The Courage and Renewal journey is a rich and wonder-full one. I wholly recommend these Circles of Trust to anyone who appreciates active support and insight as they journey to the heart.” ~C. S.

Words cannot possibly describe my experience with David and the various group members of Courage & Renewal. Those gatherings have truly blown my mind and blown open the smaller self I was living as. I have opened to new perspectives, places, and powers within me. I appreciate the enrichment I have received. Those experiences with the group opened me up to new energy, freedom, insights, and possibilities and instilled in me a deeper, stronger sense of trust and peace. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of Courage & Renewal. ~U. R.

 
 
 
“In each of the Courage & Renewal sessions I participated in, I found something to explore within myself. The spark that started each meeting, whether a poem, a thought or a piece of artwork, served to spotlight the many different interpretations within the group - and ultimately the unifying similarities that seem to bind us all.”
~P. H.

 
"In “Courage and Renewal” sessions, I get to practice speaking from the heart and listening without judging. . . . Each session reminds me of my potential and how I can get there. Each session helps me become the person whom I am still trying to become."
~ M. L.

 
"The Courage and Renewal Class gave me a chance to reflect on deeper values with a group of people, who had similar interests. The teacher had the experience to bring questions, that required a reflection on personal issues. Time was devoted to smaller groups of discussion, giving an opportunity to explore and express thoughts privately." ~Anon

 
"The level of discourse was learned, with very little ego puffing.  Folks wanted to understand and were willing to listen, questioned to understand, and moved on to include others who had something to say.  Breaking into smaller groups we met one another more deeply and the sharings were sprinkled with laughter, knowing 'ooh veys' and "oh, yes" in many expressions that were affirming and encouraging. The themes of the meetings were always flexible and relevant, inclusive and often deeply meaningful." ~ C.M.,