Loss, limitation, and the failure of initiation bring the soul into grief. In turing towards the darkness men can open a wellspring for renewel and revitalization. In this way, grief can be a doorway to the creative endeavors that constitute a man's destiny. Conventional culture largely prohibits men from experiencing grief. This prohibition is devastating for men, leading to coping patterns that may involve depression, isolation, addiction, and even violence. Through grieving, the soul's passionate and compassionate nature is initiated into deeper participation, igniting a life of meaning and desire. Through myth, ritual, and story we will explore themes such as:

• Friendship and the restoration of male community
• Welcoming necessary conflict and confrontation
• Work, ambition, and leadership

• The ecstatic and tragic dimensions of midlife
• Father-longing and Father-hatred
• Shame, vulnerability, and intimacy

Program Leader:

Aftab Omer, Ph.D. is President and core faculty at the Institute of Imaginal Studies. Formerly a faculty member in the Psychology Depratment at Sonoma State University, his research has focused on the emergence of human capacities within transformative learning communities. His work has included assisting organizations in tapping the creative potentials of conflict, diversity, and chaos. Born and raised in South Asia, he was educated at M.I.T. and Brandeis University.

Program Information:

Date:Saturday, August 21, 2004

Time:9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Location:IIS, 47 Sixth Street, Petaluma, CA 94952

Fee:$75

Registration:Call IIS at 707-765-1836 to register.

CEU Information:

CE Hours: 7.0

CE Fee: There is a $20 CEU Certificate Fee.

CE Approval For:

• MFT/LCSWs: This course meets the qualifications for 7 hours of continuing education credit for MFTs and LCSWs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. (Provider number PCE1391)