Reflection written by Andy Biehl ‘22
"My experience with the senior retreat was absolutely fantastic. The entire event was fun and relaxing, but more than anything else I was able to bond with several of my classmates, some of whom I haven’t talked to despite our years at Brother Martin. We stayed at the Solomon Episcopal Retreat Center, which was in a secluded spot in the middle of the woods. The atmosphere was welcoming and peaceful, and allowed especially for rest and reflection following each of the talks. The main themes of the retreat revolved around the senior class’s moving on and growth into adulthood, so we listened to talks about appreciating family, following the path of God, and leaving behind pieces of ourselves that hold us back from reaching our full potential.
One of the most surprising things about the retreat was how willing all of us were to open up and be honest with each other. The comfortable environment and the authenticity with which everyone there presented their stories made it easy for us to share personal parts of our own lives, and the ability to do this and learn about classmates we didn’t know made the overall experience different from any other class event. Being able to have meaningful conversations with friends and even to have fun in a natural setting was one of the best parts of the retreat, and I feel that I’ve grown--not only as an individual, but as a member of the Brother Martin senior community. I’m thankful to have been able to experience this growth, and I can’t wait to see where the future takes the Class of 2022." - Andy Biehl ‘22
Reflection written by Logan Millet '22
"This past overnight senior retreat my classmates and I went on was one of the most memorable and refreshing experiences I have had at Brother Martin. It was a great way to take a break from our busy senior year to reflect on our experiences over the past few years and to look ahead as we apply to colleges and prepare for our life after Brother Martin. We started the day hearing a talk in the Branton Chapel by Coach Wisniewski, which set the tone for the retreat. We then all went on busses to head to the retreat, and even still I was not sure what to expect.
During the retreat, the activities planned each gave me an eye-opening perspective and helped me see the world in a different way. Small group discussions allowed me to talk with an intimate group of my classmates about the activities, which helped me to get to know them a little better. Solomon Episcopal Retreat Center was a beautiful setting as well, as we got to walk around the lake or just sit in nature during the breaks we had and at nighttime. Through reflection and other activities, I was able to realize just how much Brother Martin has had an impact on my life and how much it will continue to have in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at this senior retreat and I am grateful to both the faculty and my fellow seniors for making this such a special experience." - Logan Millet ‘22
