"As someone who isn't particularly spiritual, and hasn't done much volunteering or camping, Stone Mountain was a remarkable experience. The community was inviting, funny, made the work of creating a village a joy, and made the spirit of service and feeling like a part of a greater whole easy, even for someone who is coming from a place that is disconnected from all of that. 

 

Going into it not knowing at all what to expect, just learning about and being a part of the ritual was so interesting, and involved the kind of challenges that you can only grow from. A rare and unique experience. And not out in total remoteness, but just outside of Atlanta, basically in public. Crazy to think about.

 

On a more personal note, I went during a time of great personal transition, dealing with a lot of big decisions I felt unable to deal with. Unquestionably, something about just being of service and in that environment and community made it incredibly clear what it was I had to do next. Whatever it was I gave, I got so much more in return. Five incredibly spent days."