Letters Never Sent: A Self-Guided Solo Day or Half-Day Retreat

Some words need to be written, even if they are never meant to be read.

Is there something you’ve always wanted to say but never had the chance? A conversation left unfinished, a feeling never expressed, or words you’ve been carrying in your heart?

Whether you come for a full day or just a few hours, this personal writing retreat invites you to give those unspoken words a place to go. Write to someone you miss, someone you need to forgive, your younger self, or even your future self. Your letters can express gratitude, love, grief, anger, hope, or anything else on your heart. Sometimes, simply putting our thoughts into words can be a meaningful experience.

We’ll provide writing materials and water-soluble paper that allows you to symbolically release your words by placing your letter in water and watching it slowly dissolve. Of course, you can also choose to keep your letters! You’ll have a private space for writing and reflection and are welcome to explore our peaceful 11-acre grounds, including our Peace Path through the woods, Meditation Garden, Virgin Mary’s Grotto, Peace Prayer Labyrinth, and dock overlooking Lake Washington.

While no facilitator is present during your time, you will receive a self-guided retreat guide with writing invitations, reflection questions, and suggestions to help you explore your thoughts and feelings. There is no right or wrong way to write your letters! You can follow the guide from beginning to end, choose only the parts that speak to you, or simply write whatever comes to mind.

Not ready to let go of your letter? That’s perfectly okay! This retreat is not about forcing forgiveness, finding closure, or leaving difficult feelings behind. It’s about giving yourself the freedom to express what may have gone unsaid. Whether you choose to dissolve your words, take them home, or simply sit with them for a while, the choice is entirely yours.