Elise and Phil Okrend lead interfaith dialog at Grateful Steps, Jan. 15

Elise and Phil Okrend, an artist and life coach, respectively, return to Grateful Steps Bookshop on Thursday, Jan. 15, ;:30-7 p.m. They will lead an interfaith dialog program of art, reflection and sharing.

Press release from Grateful Steps

Elise and Phil Okrend return by request to Grateful Steps, this time for an interfaith dialog program of art, reflection and sharing Thursday, January 15.

This couple found that they could extend the harmony in their marriage to bring inspiration to others by combining their separate gifts. Phil is a life coach. He is remarkably skilled in working with individuals and groups, using words to bring hope and foster vision. Elise is an artist who captures the wonder of creation through her pastels. The two have combined those talents in their coauthored book, Messages to the Heart, and in their joint presentations. The result is a message directly to the soul of the reader and the program participant.

Here is one example from the book:
Phil writes: “Character. Don’t be ashamed of heartache, pain, setback or struggle. They have the means to shape you to forge courage, truth and to better serve others with the wisdom you gain from going through it. Each trial you face and overcome is a step of empowerment for yourself and others.”

Meditate on these thoughts and the accompanying art Elise chose.

It doesn’t stop there. We are encouraged to share our reflections with the others. What a great opportunity to also share how our varying faith perspectives influence out responses!

Thursday, January 15
(always the 3rd Thursday)
Grateful Steps Bookshop
5:30 – 7 p.m.
Refreshments provided.
All faiths are welcome.

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About Alli Marshall
Alli Marshall has lived in Asheville for more than 20 years and loves live music, visual art, fiction and friendly dogs. She is the winner of the 2016 Thomas Wolfe Fiction Prize and the author of the novel "How to Talk to Rockstars," published by Logosophia Books. Follow me @alli_marshall

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