"Michael is a careful and thorough listener. In the story and dream workshops I took with Michael, his insightful choice of stories and analysis of dreams lit up the entire group. He is supportive, intelligent, imaginative, honest, and never afraid to see the humor and irony in the experience of living. I look forward to any session with Michael; his mind is always engaging with the wonder of the human spirit and creativity. Being in Michael's presence is a healing experience. Taking any of Michael's workshops is amazing and delightful." Janey R.
If asked about Michael I'd say this... He is a teacher of the old ways, versed in the new world. He has that rare ability to ask the right question, the right way, at exactly the right time. I've found his teaching many things; among them insightful, provocative, playful, and balanced. I believe others will too. Will W.
I've attended one of Michael's story workshops as well as several of his monthly dream workshops and have found both to be incredibly inspiring. Michael has a real knack for taking what seems only personal, and maybe even inconsequential, and weaving it into a larger context. He offers an opportunity to discover what gifts are hidden and in need of illumination - for oneself and for the world. Important, joyful, intriguing work that Michael makes very fun and fulfilling. Debbie H.
“Let me tell you a story” and so begins the magic of one of Michael Phillip’s storytelling seminars. It is not just the enjoyment of being read to by a master story teller that weaves the spell but the gentle yet pointed encouragement for all the participants to make the story their own. Michael expertly guides the seminar participants through the highly nuanced interplay of the universal and the particular as the many offerings of meaning and understanding are shared. The stories Michael chooses and the thoughtful way they are introduced and offered up for discussion, also encourages participants to become more aware of and connected to the energy of the specific season. Of course, one quickly realizes it is always the season for a great story read by a master story teller. Carmel R.
“Thank you for the comfort of this circle.” (Mary)
“Thanks Michael for weaving together all the stories ad personal sharings so gracefully.” (Liz)
“[I loved the] thought provoking stories and time to share interpretations. (Barbara)
“[The most valuable part of the workshop] was ‘taking the time to prepare for winter, the discussion of God, life, death and dreams. This group needs to continue. As deep as we went, we only touched the surface”(Paul)
Michael,
I was just telling a friend the other day how much and why I enjoy classes, discussions, time with you. I noticed how you included everyone, not just in eye contact, but in examples as well. After each person spoke, you didn't disregard what they said or treated it as "done". Instead, you used what was said previously in our conversations as examples for what each person consequently said. For me, I felt like what I said mattered and was valuable. I felt like I made a difference to others in their learning, simply by you refering to what I had said. And I noticed you did this throughout the class time. Whether it was intentional or not, it's a great gift to offer a group in their learning discussions and I appreciate it. Claudia O.
I wanted to let you know how much I gained from each of your classes.
This work deepened my understanding of my strengths and wobbles on all levels. Your ability to choose stories that allow for a wide interpretation from every individual in the workshop made for lots of interesting perspectives to consider.
I also appreciate your ability to “go deep” when I was discussing what a story triggered in me. Your questions and observations, steeped in the Five Element philosophy, served me personally but also professionally in how I serve my acupuncture patients. Karen G.
