Oh wow. I just spent a bit of time reading some of these posts. I have thought so many times of sitting down to research what is going on with MMS...if anyone else feels what I feel...(for inquiring minds: many feelings)--
I was at mms for 30 months. When I did leave it was because I chose not to return home from my (second ever) home visit. I never got closure, as it were, with the core of MMS. I'm not stating an opinion here. Only fact.
I chose not to go to the reunion because I was never given that closure. Not that I think finding peace with something is entirely up to any one party. Might it have given it to me? I dunno. Time heals. It's an amazing and beautiful, yet savage beast. The latter because I remember thoughts I had while at MMS. I don't act on those thoughts now. (I'm being vague because although I DO NOT FEAR taking a side, some of what is on this site makes me not wish to be cubby-holed). I will not be on here again to defend my initial statements, not that I would try but...
I want to say this. I was involved in the knowing of some things that have been referenced, and questioned on here. Some of the things I think many people wonder about. I was there during some hard times at MMS. I'm a tough bitch, and was an even more stubborn young girl. I swore up and down that I would make my voice heard, my anger heard, when I left MMS.
This is how I feel. This is not how anyone should or maybe does or whatever. I'm speaking for myself only.
Regardless of the mistakes that were made on (it seems) everyone's part, I felt loved and cared for. I felt love FOR the core staff there. I specify the CORE very intentionally. Gary will always be in my heart, bleed through my music, inspire me. Colleen will always be a mentor, and a mind I respect. Mike, what to even say. He's who he is and truth is I dug him. Deb was a no nonsense woman. Tough. I get it, and although I never felt the love from her that I wanted to...I think she cared for me in the best way she knew how. John. Oh John. A man that the thought of just made my eyes water. I wish I could see his face one more time. I think he truly loved me and wanted the best for me. THAT is a gift that will be with me always.
I'm so sorry for those who are continually plagued by their specific experience at Mission Mountain. Mine was not peaches. Time, however, has given me the gift of both distance and (a slight bit of) wisdom, by which I weigh my memories and experience.
I waited 7 years to say anything about MMS. I'm happy I did. I think it's wonderful there is a forum like this. Good luck to all of you.