JOIN US IN A CELEBRATION OF TAE
THINKING AT THE EDGE
EVENT
GARRISON NEW YORK
October 2004
TAE participants from all over the world were welcomed to the beautiful grounds of The Garrisons Institute overlooking the Hudson River, in the glory of fall colors, at the end of October.
The Thursday to Monday workshop, titled "Join us in a celebration of TAE!", attracted almost 50 people from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Japan, England, Spain, Switzerland and USA. Registration was expertly organized by Melinda Darer and Chris Honde and went smoothly.
The logo at the renovated old Franciscan monastery reads:
"Inspired
Thinking Thoughtful Action". 
Words written by Gehlek Rimpoche, and found in a commentary on the Garrison's web page, describe the penetrating ambiance in which we became immersed:
"The capability of human life is beyond our imagination. Appreciate what you have in front of you, acknowledge your value and take the opportunity you have. This capability is unique. Information is available everywhere. What counts is the human capacity to investigate that information and transform your own mind and the world around you in a powerful and positive direction."
Participants came with a wide range of familiarity about TAE - from experienced searchers who have participated in every TAE workshop since 1998 to many who were probing into it for the first time.
As planned, Dr. Gene Gendlin was the key presenter with the assistance of Kye Nelson and me (Nada Lou). Mary Hendricks, due to unforeseen circumstances, spent only several valuable hours with us. She contributed her wisdom in a few wonderful sentences. As Gene conveyed in the latest Folio, TAE was envisioned and created by Mary, so it was especially uplifting for everybody to have Mary with us for even a short time.
Although I have spent innumerable hours in Gene's "company" while filming, editing and producing different videotapes, this was my first experience of teaching alongside Gene. It was a wonderful experience for me. I felt very tuned in and confident to be on the teaching team with my long time mentor.
Kye and I have separately given many workshops around the world, but it was also the first time we worked together on the same team. While we have very different styles and approaches, I believe that the combination brought an extra dimension and enrichment to all of those who participated in this workshop.
On Thursday evening I welcomed participants and gave an overview of TAE and proposed plans for the workshop. On Friday Gene told us "all about TAE" as he mused in his opening remarks, and expertly moved on from one feature of this fertile practice to the next in his playful genuineness.
He is always sensitive to the different levels of needs among the participants. It is indeed a privilege to observe and collaborate with Gene in action. From profound details to simple basics, he echoes each little movement with meticulous precision.
In the next few days we each presented parts of the whole program.Kye introduced participants to her "Step 0", - a preparation for Step 1, which is "Let a felt sense form". I introduced and familiarized participants with "how to do" Steps 1-5. I later presented steps 6-9 and partnered Gene modeling his own process for everyone.
Gene continued to build on his process as he moved to teaching "Building Theory" - steps 10-14. There was a lot of time for all participants to work in partnerships as well as in small groups with Gene, Kye and myself. We coached, supported and collaborated with them on their own varied topics.
In addition to teaching I managed to have most of this event videotaped as well, with a great collaboration and help from two gentleman participants.
A special feel for the international appeal of TAE was inspired by a group of participants from Japan who brought a skilled interpreter with them. The quiet echo in Japanese at the back of the room communicated appreciative certainty that TAE has already gained a global appeal. Spanish, Portuguese and Aussie English further enhanced this atmosphere.
I hope that some of the participants from this workshop will also share their impressions about the workshop to heighten your curiosity about this new practice.