Sisters of Sparkle Celebration

Sisters of Sparkle

Thanks to Natalie Roberts for this story.

The excitement is growing, as courageously vulnerable women embark on journeys from far flung places of the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands – to gather, to cook, to eat, to support, to heal, to laugh, to dance, to dream.

This weekend, the theme is ‘sparkle’ and we’ve spent weeks exchanging messages to make sparkly dreams a reality.

What we’ll eat, what we’ll wear, the table setting, the playlist, the props… the active anticipation is a sustaining force when we are apart.

An everyday meal will be transformed into something profound, with the power to restore and heal the broken and hurting spirit.

 

‘Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another “What! You too? I thought I was the only one.”’ – C.S. Lewis

Sisters of Sparkle is a small mutual support group. We met at a workshop two years ago and formed an immediate bond. Most of our day to day contact is virtual, supporting each other with the challenges of being ‘neurotypical’ in a relationship with a partner on the autism spectrum.

Sisters-of-Sparkle-Celebration-PeacemealOne of our biggest relationship challenges is sustaining our social and emotional energy or wellbeing – which we call ‘sparkle’.

The challenges of intimacy had taken an emotional toll, with self-esteem and confidence at rock bottom. The recovery journey is tough and slow and mutual support plays a critical part.

Given our distance from each other, we began to meet once or twice a year for a weekend of support, encouragement and inspiration.

Cooking and eating together (which is often problematic at home) is one of the most important aspects of our precious few days together.

We delight in creating a relaxed, spontaneous and ‘sparkling’ space for companionship, chat, laughter, singing and dancing.

Our meals are a celebratory occasion: giving thanks for each other, for our friendship and for the recovery progress we are making, one small step at a time.

This ‘sparkle party’ induces energy, reduces tensions and builds confidence. Prolific chatter and laughter whilst enjoying delicious food gives way to spontaneous singing and dancing into the night.

The sky is clear, the moon is bright, music and dance moves outdoors with neon lights.

 

‘We spend a few days together and we think we can do anything! On Wednesday I couldn’t remember my own name and now I’m like Wonder Woman!’

Sisters of Sparkle Peacemeal CelebrationWe leave the weekend socially and emotionally re-energised. Our souls have been nourished by food, companionship and mutual understanding.

The challenges of day-to-day life can be faced with a little more patience and understanding. Our recovery journey can continue in the knowledge and spirit of sparkle.

The date for our next weekend away is in the diary and it seems a sparkling barn dance is in the early stages of active anticipation…yee hah!

Living with Asperger’s Syndrome – resources and support

If you are, or think you are, in a relationship with someone on the autism spectrum, including Asperger’s Syndrome, and need support, visit Different Together for more information, resources and links to a private discussion Forum and local Meetups.

5 thoughts on “Sisters of Sparkle”

  1. What an amazing group of ladies you are – a real inspiration to us all. Also a great example of how ladies supporting each other can bring joy and sparkle to all our lives.

  2. You are all amazing. But my best friend is a total inspiration to me and a guiding light. She is sparkle personified and I am astounded at her courage, beauty and truthfulness in this journey I am privileged to witness and be part of. Natalie, I love you, you incredible woman. Xx

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