the “D” word:

desire without demand

We have few examples of men knowing, naming, and pursuing their desires in healthy ways. As we watch oligarchs and bully politicians take what they want from our institutions and society with entitled abandon, they are often cheered and celebrated.

We have plenty of examples of the Dictator - men who believe they are entitled to getting what they want and will do anything to get it. We have plenty of examples of the Doormat - men who virtually erase their wants in the name of keeping the peace.

In this workshop, we will dive into our relationship to the D word behind it all, Desire. There is great power - and attraction - in masculine folx owning their desire. But liberation exists only where we find the strength to own our desires without any demand or attachment to their fulfillment.

We will explore the reasons so many men struggle to even know our desires - other than a few socially sanctioned ones like status symbols, certain kinds of sex, and “being left alone.” 

We will practice knowing, embracing, and stating desire in invitational ways that are free from demand, shame, entitlement, and avoidance. 

Join us for a one-day interactive workshop on FRIDAY, MARCH 28, to explore what masculinity can look like outside the constraints of patriarchy.

Facilitators John Helmiere and Ben Mustin will lead a half-day gathering where men and masc folx explore embodiment, play, imagination, and openness as a path to experience masculinity based in empathy, strength, and love. This workshop is open to any men/masc folx; the content will build off previous workshops, but attendance to previous workshops is not necessary!

When: 12pm-8pm, March 28, 2025

Where: Exact Venue TBC, Greater Seattle Area (within 45 min drive of downtown Seattle)

Cost: $90-150 per our Sliding Scale

Curious, but can't make it on 3/28? Join us for our full weekend retreat May 16-18!