I became certified as a Facilitator of this process in 2005, and have beenpresenting workshops on a regular basis since then.  I always tell myclients about the structure of the deck at the introductory workshops, andsometimes focus on a specific suit at others.  But, I also tell my clientsto allow this to be an intuitive, image-driven process, and to try not to thinktoo hard when collecting and arranging images.

Allow yourself to bedelighted and amazed by your creation.  Don't try to categorize it untilit is ready to tell you what it is.  I also emphasize Seena's guideline of speaking from the image.  The "I am one who..." statements are powerful affirmations which come from a very deep place.  I  tellclients that they are in charge of their process, and that whatever they createwill be just right for them that day, even if it does not seem to fit into asuit. 

I have used the process in combination with Integrative Breathworkgroups, where the cards often tell the story of a journey.  I have runworkshops in many settings, and always find that the process has meaning forparticipants wherever they are in their life experience.  I also find that allowing others to use my deck for card Readings can be very meaningful. The three questions that I always ask the person to answer from the card they draw are: Who are you?  (I am one who...) What wisdom do you have for me? and What do you need from me?.

I make most of my cards during the workshops and retreats that I facilitate.Sometimes I will make a Community card for someone when I feel moved.  Myclients often tell me that they find it it easiest to make the cards during ourworkshops.  The group energy makes things flow. I find this to be true forme as well.   However, I have started a card making frenzy in manyfolks--who cannot stop making cards after they come to the first retreat. We sometimes get together for private sessions to help with putting cards insuits, and dialoguing with various cards.  They are such wonderfulcatalysts for processes such as voice dialoguing, and journaling in atherapeutic setting.

Council Suit

This card came about at the 3 Faces of Silenceretreat with Seena last January.   This card says:

I am one who is larger and more powerful than you can imagine. I am no longer hidden behind the small child that you once pretended tobe.

This is a Community Suit card that happenedunexpectedly.  I picked up an image that reminded me of my grandfather, even though I had nointention of making a card for him. 

My workshop that day was focusedon the Council suit.  However, my grandfather, who died at least 20years ago, wouldn't let me avoid making this collage.  He is not aperson I felt I knew very well--but evidently he wants me to know himbetter.  He says:

I am one who has learned many lessons duringmy life times.  Pay attention to your ancestors, for we havemuch to teach you.

This card  is a good exampleof allowing the image to drive the process, regardless of my"intention" for the session.

Insights Box

Capture big insights gained from your work with SoulCollage, as well as otherawarenesses about yourself and your journey. I got an inexpensive wooden box at a local art/craft store, painted itsome of my favorite colors, and added embellishments.  Every time I get an insight, I write it on a4x6 index card and place it in the box. Once a week, I read through the cards as a way of allowing the insightsto sink deeper into my soul instead of forgetting them as I am likely to do ifI don't make note of them in this special way.