Well, it’s been a bit of a “blog blight” for me the past couple of weeks.  I say “sorry” to my regular readers.  I’ve had a bit of personal turmoil as of late and have needed to expend all energy on getting over the hump.  This, makes my blog post this week sort of uplifting for me.   A friend and fellow professional colleague recently brought to my attention a Sun Valley, Idaho event that should do the trick. . .just reading about it made me feel like my toes were flying off the floor a bit.

The event is the Sun Valley Spiritual Film Festival, which is touted as a backdrop for exploring different spiritual traditions and celebrating the human spirit through film. The dates of this year’s festival are September 19-21, 2008 and are held in the always peaceful and breathtaking Sun Valley.  The festival features over 25 films from around the world, complemented by the presence of many of the film-makers, as well as thought provoking panel presentations and engaging speakers.   Featured speakers this year are:  Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D., the author of the best sellers Kitchen Table Wisdom and My Grandfather’s Blessing and David Shlim, M.D., one of the most respected travel medicine practitioners in the world.    

This event is not what I call a “bible conference.” That was my first reaction when I was told about the festival, although for the record—I have no issue with bible conferences.  In 2005, the festival was “born” after a visit from none other than the Dalai Lama.   The annual celebration of the human spirit through film and moving speakers is now in its fourth year. 

I’m surprised O has not already attended the event, although I believe she has visited Sun Valley as it is a popular get away for the famous (i.e. a great alternative to going to the ever-popular of late “institutions”). The festival seems to me to be in line with Oprah’s Eckhart Tolle devotion, which I have not been able to get my arms around.  I simply get lost in his words.  The festival will give those of you (like me) who are more visual about learning (vs. reading) a chance to raise your level of consciousness about mankind through film and the spoken word.   

Here is the link to the festival’s website—which gives you a complete schedule of films and events:  www.svspiritualfilmfestival.org

If you go for no other reason, go because the beautiful Sun Valley scenery is enough to float your spirit a tad.  And, who knows. . .you may not see Oprah, but I’ve heard there are always some “O-list” celebrities in the crowd.