The October 5 firewalk, with the theme, “the courage to be yourself,” was a wild success. Ten people came from all different walks of life with ages ranging from 23 to 69. Everyone had a wonderful time and I suspect from their comments that a few lives were changed for the better. Judge for yourself. Here is what each of them had to say about their experience. Knowing that my program has this kind of impact on people makes me incredibly happy, and reaffirms my sense that sharing this work may be the most meaningful thing I do with my life. I truly believe that just about anyone would be deeply served by attending one of these workshops -- we could all use a little more courage in this scary world.
~ Zahir (Tony) Simons, 64, professor & certified firewalk instructor
“Tonight was a surreal experience. I came into it unsure of myself. I left with newfound confidence, and the start of knowing that it is okay to put trust into people. There is comfort in discomfort, and I am happy I stepped out of my comfort zone."
~ Hannah W, 23, secretary
“Scary. But in a good way."
~ Lawrence Clarkberg, 60, bicycle mechanic
“My friend has been sharing her experience for a few years, and I was always skeptical. I am so happy that I trusted her enough to come. It was an indescribable experience. I feel so empowered, and hope to share with others."
~ Rebecca Lindsey, 45, clerk
“This experience was truly fantastic. Getting together with a group of strangers, very promptly getting quite vulnerable together, then going through a series of challenges as a group was incredibly empowering. Walking across hot coals with group encouragement and support was such a profound reminder that I am more powerful than I let myself think I am. Thank you!"
~ Seth Soulstein, 43, professor
"Life changing! So powerful to know the things you previously believed to be true have been limiting you. This helped me live “I CAN DO IT!” It was especially rewarding watching my coworkers walk, knowing how intimidated they had been by the idea!"
~ Tara Bailey, 52, DMV examiner
“Coming to this experience was a trigger for anxiety. I have never felt more calm and at peace [than I do] after completion of the workshop. I feel like there is nothing I cannot do! I look forward to continuing on my self-healing journey. I am unstoppable."
~ Lindsay B, 46, commissioner
“It was empowering. It tested my determination to push to overcome my insecurities. Eye-opening, a start to a new direction personally and spiritually."
~ Peter W, 39, maintenance
"Expansive! Light! Empowered! I heard about firewalks so I searched online for one near me, and found this. I have been on a journey to find myself, to grow, to be authentically me. This was exactly what I needed at this point. Each part of the evening was overcoming a difficult obstacle. I feel alive for breaking a board, an arrow, for trusting others to catch me, and for firewalking! An amazing experience!"
~ Brenda Lenweaver, 53, teaching assistant
“Tony’s program of empowerment is a truly wonder gift. I started the evening expecting to enjoy it, but it became so much more. It tapped into some unexpected emotions that I was able to address. The people I met were all truly lovely human beings. Thank you Tony!!"
~ Troy M Walts, 50, craftsman/carpenter
“I feel pleasantly surprised, and my curiosity has been spiked. Everyone should take this seminar! I would like to take it again, actually, because I did not walk on the fire this time. But I am ready to."
~ Meredith Jason, 69, retired