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Poetics of the Spirit

  • Venture Retreat Center 201 Eden West Road Pescadero, CA, 94060 United States (map)

How can creative reflection deepen our spiritual lives? How do the words and names we use for the Divine shape the way we experience Life and Spirit?

Join Sara Farooqi, founder of Interdependence Lab, for an interactive workshop exploring these questions through the lens of the Islamic mystical tradition and the 99 Divine Names.

Through guided reflection and simple creative writing prompts, we’ll engage these themes in an approachable, welcoming way. No background in writing, poetry, or theology needed. Come curious. Leave nourished.

What to Expect:

  • Learn about the Islamic tradition and spiritual frameworks that inspired some of the world’s greatest poets, including Mawlana Rumi.

  • Give yourself the gift of time to contemplate and connect with other open-hearted souls.

  • Write (if you’re so called) You’ll be gently guided with prompts to engage with creative writing in an accessible way–no prior writing experience necessary. And no expectation to share out loud.

Who is this workshop for?

Open-hearted non-Muslim and Muslim friends curious to engage with poetry and Islamic concepts in an inclusive, experiential, and respectful way. Beginners embraced and welcomed. No prior experience with writing or Islamic teachings necessary.

From Past Participants…

“I love poetry, so of course I signed up for the workshop… It was a comforting, educational space, and I felt like there were still good people in the world. I felt like people still cared and had reverence. If that's something you value, I'd highly recommend this workshop with Sara.” – Fi Kahani

“The 99 Names poetry workshop was a powerful and transformative experience. It offered a meaningful space to reflect deeply, connect with others, and explore profound themes of humanity, oneness, and unity. I found it insightful and deeply healing.” – Dr. Maryam Ghadiri

About Sara:

Sara A. Farooqi is a mama, poet, friend, facilitator, community builder, and culture designer. Through Interdependence Lab—the organization she founded—she supports the social impact sector to cultivate equitable and joyful communities grounded in reciprocity and interconnection.

Guided by this spirit of interdependence, she leads experiential sessions rooted in her experience as a practicing Muslim, inviting reflection and connection among diverse groups across faith traditions. She sees Islam as an essential thread in the human story and invites others to engage with its wisdom in ways that foster wonder and mutual learning.

She currently serves on the board of Vesper Society, a faith-based health equity foundation. She previously served on the board of Muslims for Progressive Values and the steering committee for MASGD: Muslim Alliance for Sexual & Gender Diversity. Her poetry and writing have been featured in LILA, The Tapestry, Inclusion Solution, and Yoni ki Baat: Musings and Monologues on Identity by South Asian Women.