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on 3/26/2009
by Ron Suchara
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Simply put, solitude is a place where one can, within the silence, remove the clutter from one's mind and achieve a state where one can just 'BE'. I have taken numerous silent retreats in the past, guided and unguided, and none compare to the facilities available at Windridge Solitude. The fully equipped pristine cottages (with the exception of food which you bring along)provide the imperative element of comfort and sanctuary for one's personal retreat. But it's the silence that provides the condition to connect to God within us. To achieve this level of personal stillness is euphoric and revitalizing. For me personally, occasions of simple awareness and creative ideas also evolve from the silence because I cannot only hear but listen to the spiritual voice within. In all of my travels, Windridge Solitude is the only place that I have found that offeres the unique conditions to let that voice be heard clearly. If God has called you to seek a place away to be with Him, this is that place.
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on 11/26/2008
by Rev. Robin Roderick
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Coming upon Windridge by "accident" has been an immense blessing. The physical setting, the kindness of the Companions who leave me to the solitude I seek, and the simply lovely accomodations are fantastic.
There is always a feeling of peace and joy while I am there. And I can't believe they allow pets! No guilt, lots of God and a beauty that surpasses many of the retreat centers I've experienced. Even I venture out into the woods or along the creek bank! Any season, any weather it is wonderful.
I would recommend Windridge far and wide--it is worth a drive, making the time, letting go. Thank you Windridge.
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on 11/17/2008
by Maria Brady-Smith
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Our small writer's group visited Windridge and we were so amazed at our good fortune. It is a beaustiful setting with kind and thoughtful caretakers who make the stay comfortable without being intrusive. I felt so cared for while I was there. There are plenty of places to walk, to meet as a group and to find solitude. The cabins are comfortable and very clean and all around I could sense the presence of the Holy Spirit. I am going back alone in two weeks to write and pray and read. I am sooo looking forward to another visit and I am sure I will continue to go there for years to come.
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on 11/17/2008
by Jim Rogers
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I have been to Windridge Solitude twice now -- 2 days and 2 nights each time. The accomodations are modern, clean, and comfortable. The setting is pastoral and peaceful. I am a clergyman and I have used my retreat time to do sermon planning for a six month or so period. Great to get away with my Bible and my Lord.
Jim Rogers
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on 11/14/2008
by Kevin Ferris
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When I left hospice work after 10 years to open a private practice, I spent five days at Windridge Solitude marking the transition between one life and another. What I enjoyed most was the simplicity of the surroundings. My cabin was extremely comfortable and clean, my enclosed porch looked out on the woods and I spent many hours there. If I wanted exercise, there were several acres to roam around in. All was silent except for birds, insects, and the occasional plane. No one spoke with me after I first arrived, although I knew people were near if I needed them.It was exactly what I needed - time and space for decompression, reflection, and prayer. The rates were too reasonable to be believed, and I appreciated that. I'm so grateful this was there when I needed it, and hope to go back again, soon.
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on 11/14/2008
by Karen Fieg
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I have been wanting to do a solitude retreat for many years and finally went on the internet and found Windridge. What a blessing! I stayed four nights in early November and it was in one word - perfect! I was amazed at how easy it was to become immersed in the peace and quiet and beauty of the 83 acres. The keepers of this wonderful place are so intent on a person coming to the solitude and understanding the need for peace. Everything except food is accomodated for and it was fun to pre-plan my meals etc. They had everything, down to a poncho for rain, and nightlights for the dark. My favorite place was the screened in porch. I wanted to take it home with me! I journaled, read, did crafts, walked and walked and walked over the property, listened to inspiring music, laid down in the grass and closed my eyes - it was heaven on earth! I wish I were back there right now!
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on 11/14/2008
by Julie Jacob
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It has been a year since I have visited Windridge. At least once a week I think about Windridge and the peace and clarity I have found when I am there. It is a chance to be alone, no TV, no phone - a chance to block out the demands of an ever changing world and receive insight into question or problem as well as search for spiritual awareness and closeness to a Higher Power. There is a wonderful library, chapel, fully equipped individual cabins, and lots of nature with peace and solitude. It is a place where I have found comfort and peace in a turbulent time in my life.
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on 11/14/2008
by Barb Oakes
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I have been to Windridge Solitude several times for up to 3 weeks of the most divine peace and serenity. The reviews already posted say so much truth about the place and the Companions. I have enjoyed the cabins so much I planned to build a house just like them, only a wee bit larger. I have done writing, painting and reading there that I just don't take time to do when I'm home. I have used the spiritual direction and library there to guide me in making some major life decisions that were very good for me. I am so glad that friends of mine suggested it. One of the best parts for me is being able to take my beloved, elderly cat with me. I often don't give myself permission to do things I'd like/need to do, because I don't want to leave him. He loves it there too, and has acquired a place in the cottage journals. Those are so special --- to sit and read messages left by previous occupants of the cottages, and how Windridge has helped each person on their journey. It's sort of like finding the Garden of Eden, only you're there all by yourself (almost).
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on 11/13/2008
by Deacon Phil Hengen
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Windridge Solitude is one of the best kept secrets in the midwest. I have made 3 individual retreats there, and my wife and I made a retreat at Windridge for our 40th anniversary last year.
The setting is wonderful and the individual cabins (acutally little houses) are clean, comfortable and fully equiped...all you need to bring is food, drink and personal items.
The cabins are situated so that each occupant has total privacy...you'd swear you were the only person there on the 80 acres,(assuming you're a person who swears).
The staff couldn't be more accomodating...they are wonderful. This place deserves a 5 star rating!
Deacon Phil Hengen
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on 10/22/2008
by Robbyn Wahby
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After a decade of directed retreats, it was my joy to stumble upon the solitude of Windridge. This is a perfect place for someone looking for peace, to be in quiet prayer and meaningful conversation with the Creator. To paint or read. Write or walk. Photograph or listen. Rest or think.
The fully equipped cottages are comfortable and cozy. The location is ideal for 1-2 days, but the cottages can accommodate longer stays nicely. They meet the quintessential Goldie Lox standard of “just right!”
The natural beauty of Midwest Missouri can be seen from the cottage and on the various trails throughout the property. The fire-flies at night provide unexpected delight. I was captivated by dances of the leaves on the trees during a few rain showers from the screened in porch. While I enjoyed the spring/summer season, I can imagine how beautiful Windridge can be in the fall and winter too.
A few tips if you come:
- Since you'll need to bring your own groceries - don't forget the little things like spices and cooking oil. Next time I’ll bring a thermos so I can have coffee next to the lake.
- Nature is all around you - and that means ticks and other creatures you have to learn to love are there too. They have kindly provided bug spray, but you may wish to pack your own for when you are out on the trails.
- The Companion's celebrate Mass on Sunday. I would encourage you to join the. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet your hosts and to see a community that lives their mission of sharing Infinite Love.
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on 10/18/2008
by Sr. Gail Borgmeyer
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Windridge's separate houses are fully equipped with all conveniences, very clean, and provide exceptional privacy. The peace and quiet permeate the land. The 83 acres are beautiful to explore, and the lake provides an atmosphere of solitude. The place is perfect for a private retreat.
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