A Unique YOU!

There is ABSOLUTELY no one like YOU in this world. We all have something unique to say, to create, to offer, and to teach others. If you follow your heart and get in touch with your soul, it will lead you to endless opportunities. Your dreams, talents, passions and desires are your clues. Don't discount them. Instead, honor them and you will find happiness in all that you do.

I have had amazing teachers, advisors, and guides in my lifetime, as I am sure many of you have had as well. I have learned many facts, ways of thinking, knowledge and wisdom and now I know, more than ever, to not only follow my logical and rational mind, but, to follow my heart and trust that it will lead me to the right place.

As a child, I always loved learning. I was one of those few kids that loved school. Of course, I didn’t like the many hours of homework, the competitive nature of the classroom setting or the rote studies, but I did love to learn when the teachers presented their subjects in an interesting and enjoyable way; through multi-media, art, storytelling, team projects and other opportunities where I was able to use my creativity to better understand the subjects. I took this love of learning to heart and, later in my life, became a family educator, using unique and enjoyable experiences to teach others. My passion for education led me to help start educational institutions as well, and I have spent the last 15 years working diligently with others to help create and build them. Never understanding my path as I was participating in it, I delved into leading, organizing and raising money…anything I could do to help make these institutions wonderful places for children, parents and adult learners.

Having examined my path in depth for the last few years now, through guidance and hard work, it’s no wonder that I can look back and see how much I loved growing up at my Father’s Jewish Day Camp, an exceptionally fun and creative environment. I have been in the role of a camper, counselor, and director throughout my life. From owning and being the program director of Camp Summertime many years ago, to organizing family retreats for business organizations and institutions, I have always had “camp” in my blood. My entire family loves camp as well, and together, we have attended many family weekend retreats and Bruinwoods Family Camp for the last 10 years. Taking a queue from my childhood camp experiences we have even created “Camp Gootnick” on many occasions in our home and family life as well. I have also approached my volunteer and professional work with a fun and positive attitude when planning events and activities.

My life has also been focused on communication as well. Not only do I have a B.A from UCLA in Communication (which, quite frankly, taught me nothing about true “communication”) and I am trained as a mediator, my love and passion has always been communicating and connecting with others. I have always enjoyed talking to friends, discussing and sharing our experiences in life, whether it is our careers, single or married life, the challenges and joys of parenting or ongoing relationships with our family and those around us.

My other “gift” has been my deep sense of awareness and spirituality. I have taken the opportunities that have been presented to me to learn more about my inner self and what I want in my life.

Mixing my passion for education, fun and creativity, communication and spirituality has lead me to my true path….helping others heal and lift themselves to greater heights through joyful experiences and knowledge.

Creating an institute to learn and grow as individuals and families by connecting to each other through positive experiences and education is my mission. My vision is to empower people to help them find joy and “heaven on earth” and, therefore, create a better world.

My newest venture is The Renewal Institute, a place where “Individuals and Families are empowered through education and experiences to change the world”. I will be creating this Institute together with my dear friend, Nancy Tylim, who shares an extremely similar vision. We will be offering workshops, discussion groups and experiences to help open minds and hearts, so that everyone who participates can see themselves as unique individuals and discover how their paths play a role in what their purpose in this world can be. We are launching The Renewal Institute in established communities, such as synagogues and other organizations, at the beginning of 2010! I continue on my path and I believe I am moving in the right direction. It is a constant learning process for me.

Know that YOU are a unique and amazing individual with your own path…follow your heart … have courage, choose to take risks and your passions and gifts will show you the way!


Here’s to making 2010 a gateway to new possibilities and opportunities. May the toast for the New Year be to fulfilling all of your dreams!