Reviews

Meditation

I'm getting so much from your weekly class. My practice finally feels like it is going somewhere. I am so grateful to you, Margo. What a lucky thing that I stumbled across a note in the local paper announcing a weekend class in Cumberland so many years ago. I'm slow off the mark but have sure found a good teacher.

L. Smith, Comox, BC

Tending the Spark: Mindfulness and the Creative Life

I love having you as a teacher. You are a continual reminder that I'm not too big or too scary or too emotional. Creative expression allows us to be big.  when we create, we live in the big space inside. It doesn't intrude on anyone else's turf.

Sue B., Toronto, Ontario

Recent online series

Spring 2021

Dear Margo,

I want to express my appreciation for the series of online classes you have just completed. The style of presentation that you offer is quite different from other online dharma classes that I have attended and I found it to be refreshingly beneficial. The small group adds to the intimacy, comfort and friendliness of the experience.  I think the small group discussion is a vital component for learning and integration of the topic. One of the most beneficial aspects of the series was receiving the weekly readings and suggestions for practice. It was a perfect amount of content and information for me and I didn't feel overwhelmed.The style and facilitation of the class felt very inclusive with every voice being given an opportunity to share. The overall experience for me was very positive and I would look forward to other classes that you might lead.

Much, much, gratitude,
Sheelagh E., BC

Recent performances

At Seattle Insight with Doug MacKenzie in March, 2016:

"Beautiful. I am particularly thankful for the humble artistry. The music was such a gift with the stories, and combined, they created a real experience of teaching and sharing through story. Deep bow of gratitude for a living experience."

"Thank you, I really enjoyed the stories and the music. Excellent blend of insights from the varied women and men."

School Visits

“Margo created an entire world with her words and vivid images. She engaged the children’s five senses by using an enriched and precise vocabulary.”
~ J. Crawford, Puntledge Park Elementary, Courtenay, BC

“Thank you again for coming to speak to our class. I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. It fit in with my current unit on media awareness because one of the main outcomes of the unit is for the students to develop their ability to think critically. The story on abuse of power really spoke to that when you talked about the importance of choosing aids in government.”
~ J. Stoutley, Mt. Doug Secondary School, Victoria, BC

“A big thank you for coming to our class and telling your wonderful stories! You have a very natural talent and lovely speaking voice in order to tell your tales. The students and I really liked them, found them interesting and there were morals to be learned!! They especially loved the "hang" drum you brought and were totally intrigued by it's bell-like sound, as was I.”
~ A. Chatton, Mt. Doug Secondary School, Victoria, BC

Storytelling

Thanks for a wonderful Jataka Tales tonight.  The stories were enthralling and your timing and sensitivity to the needs of the children was wonderful. 
  ~ Carol Geil, Seattle Insight Meditation Center, Seattle, WA

About twenty of us sat in a circle and as soon as Margo pulled the circle in, which she did somehow, mysteriously, she cast a net. She created a momentous sense of occasion. She held our attention, thoroughly, for a hour. Her voice was soothing, but it was also captivating. She told the stories as though they were her own. She never fumbled; she never forgot a line. Her voice was the only thing happening and we were willing to follow it anywhere.
~ Arleen Paré, Victoria, BC

Review of “The Legend of the Weaver's Daughter”:

With her clear and melodic voice, and spell-binding narration, Margo brings the ancient story of the weaver’s daughter alive in a way that awakens our own desire to practice. We are left full of awe for the powerful results of a young woman’s determined practice and full of delight in the Buddha’s teachings. In accompanying the weaver's daughter on her journey, we too, become recipients of the beautiful teachings she has learned from the Buddha. (Click here for full review)
~ Andrew Berger, Northampton, Massachusetts

Liberating our Gifts Workshop

“I hoped my heart would open in some direction. It did. Thank you for your gentleness and your gift.”
“I think the process really worked and wonderful things happened. Thank you so much!
“I loved the stories and the group work and how they complemented each other. Thank you, Margo!”
“I came with an open mind and was rewarded with much fun, inspiration, and a sense of wonder. I love your stories!”
“I enjoyed the balance of reflection, small groups, telling stories, and listening. All the stories were excellent.”
“This was a wonderful experience, very positive and rewarding. There was a great balance between giving and receiving, listening and speaking. Thank you for your time and your stories.”
“I feel more connected to my heart centre, more inspired to seek the mystery in life, to focus on the how, not the what.”

“Stories are the thread that weaves the web of our experiences, making life the rich and colourful tapestry that it is. I’d recommend your workshop to those who are interested in deepening their connections with others and in opening to their own self-expression.”

“I have enjoyed the experience fully. Each day has been full and healing.”
“I hoped for some inspiration and received it. Thank you!”
“I feel happiness and an openness to share my well of love and possibilities.”
“I had no hopes but will come away with a better appreciation for life.”
“I feel an expanded sense of what is possible. I also feel more connected to others. I feel more willing and committed to share who I am with others. Also, more willingness to look for possibilities of staying open.”

“Definitely your stories were the most powerful part of the workshop. Each of them had significant meaning for me. Also the group sharing of "I love...." was a lovely connecting exercise that has stayed with me. I think it has great potential for unity, both small and large scale.”
~ Roberta M. Courtenay, BC

“I found that the workshop opened up a door again that had not been opened in a while and the best part was that I got to share the experience with my daughter-in-law, and indirectly with the rest of the family, because she is now into it too and will share her experience and appreciation of storytelling. That is a wonderful flow of generosity.”

Introducing Buddhist Meditation:

“Thank you, Margo. What a wonderful day. Lots to take home and apply. You have an amazing gift in your voice and teaching ability – gentle and strong.”

The Exquisite Risk (with Mark Nepo):

“The storyteller was phenomenal!”