The Point of a 'Darkness Retreat'

Aaron Rodgers, former Green Bay Packers, has alerted us to the existence of 'Darkness Retreats'. Which is exactly what is sounds like - retreat from life to sit (or do whatever) in pitch darkness for an extended period of time.

But, the point is not about sitting in darkness to be alone with your thoughts. The point is to get uncomfortable, so that you strip away the noise and layers of the world. That way you can discern the difference between the thoughts that matter to your soul and the thoughts of your ego. The ego thrives in comfort, the soul reveals itself through discomfort (Darkness Retreat operators are welcome to use this previous paragraph in their marketing materials).

This is what A-Rod wants to do while he contemplates his future. There seems to be a tremendous amount of depth to Mr. Rodgers and we should all be grateful that he uses his platform and lets us in on this humanness. He often, at the risk of criticism, shares personal journeys and gives us a glimpse of the mental side of being a champion. We can learn from his deliberate approach to mental strength, health, and endurance.

In a way, prison has been a 3 year darkness retreat for me. I don't have the lights that brighten my soul - my family, dogs, and freedom. The journey is one grueling, extended period of uncomfortable darkness (I would prefer A-Rod's darkness retreat option) that has brought me to a place of clarity. I know my place in the world (hint: it is not in prison) and the reason I exist. Out of this incredible discomfort came the comfort of knowing exactly what I am supposed to do with my life. Without it, I may never discover this and I surmise it is because we spend an entire lifetime avoiding the very uncomfortableness that will reveal our true desires and identity.

Thank you Aaron for sharing your journey: You are more inspiring as a human than as a football player. And, I love the way you play the game.