Finding Our Island of Sanity

In a world that so often feels fragmented, chaotic, and overwhelming, we all need places where we can exhale. Places where we feel safe enough to be real, brave enough to be honest, and supported enough to keep showing up—both for ourselves and one another. These places don’t happen by accident. They are created with intention, nurtured through community, and rooted in love. I have been referring to them recently as islands of sanity.

The phrase comes from author and leadership strategist Margaret Wheatley, who describes islands of sanity as the places “where people show up with integrity, courage, and curiosity.” In the midst of systems that feel broken, fast-paced, or even harmful, these are the spaces that help us remember who we are and what matters most.

For many, The Refuge at La Foret has been just that—an island of sanity in an increasingly insane world. Whether you’ve come for a retreat, camp, or community gathering, you know that something sacred happens when we gather in this place. The pine trees hold our stories. The meadow echoes with laughter and hard questions. Around the campfire, we remember how to listen—to each other, to the land, and to ourselves.

In these times of disconnection, fear, and uncertainty, it is more important than ever to find your island of sanity. It might be a quiet moment at the labyrinth, a brave conversation in the chapel, or a weekend like the one we have coming up.

On June 6–7, we are hosting our first Campfire Connection—and the theme this time is exactly this: Islands of Sanity. We’ll gather around the fire, not just for s’mores and song (though there will be both), but to reflect, share, and connect with others who are seeking grounding and community in the chaos.

Campfire Connection is a low-key, all-ages evening into morning experience. Come alone or bring a friend. Stay in a cabin or commute in just for the activities. The invitation is simple: show up as you are and come be reminded that you’re not alone. Together, we’ll practice what it means to be a refuge for ourselves and for one another.

We know we can’t fix the whole world in a weekend. But we can create a pocket of peace. We can choose to live into the values that sustain us. And we can remind each other that it’s possible to build something beautiful—even in the middle of the storm.

We hope you’ll join us. Register here.