I had the privilege of meeting Stania for the first time in an ESL class in San Francisco in 2007. I was impressed not only by her vast knowledge of her subject matter, but also by the way she taught her classes. Her sensitive, caring and loving way of making her students see how they can be the masters of their own learning and all the potential they have to reach higher in their lives was really inspiring and touching. This was already the beginning of our coaching for me. Some years later, I am still very fortunate to have her lessons in life through her very inspiring way of coaching. Her professional coaching uses inquiry, reflection and discussions that have helped me identify my personal and relationship goals. From this I have been able to develop action plans in order to achieve these goals.

I have no words to thank Stania for all her contributions to both my spiritual journey and my growth as a person – especially in my darker moments when she is always able to shed her bright light onto my path. In addition to being this outstanding professional, she is a unique sensitive human being who has all my admiration and respect. Without a doubt, one of the best people I have ever met in my life. My heart is full of gratitude for the work she has been doing with me.

Nearing the end of my brimming adolescence, a mass of possibilities lies beyond my teenage years. Adulthood seems to require a rigorous and yet daunting response to the many unanswered questions. Where to go, what to do, who to be? Frankly, I am lost.

I had spent many days questioning and dreading the future… of growing up… of my life becoming like a routine. I felt like a pawn, my life going to be controlled and confined to the mantra of two steps forward, one step back.

But Stania has offered me through my evolving meditation practice an alternate way to play the game.

Meditation has given me an enriched perspective on life. By utilizing the practices of self-awareness, life blossoms for me… and in there rests an entirely different meaning, a thread of purpose and possibility of livelihood I can see in each day. Though I am still a speculating novice, I have found myself living more, appreciating more, and learning substantially.

Stania maintains a distinct level of compassion, concern, and purpose in her craft. There has yet to be one session where I felt I was talking just to pass time. Her deep engagement and encouragement has awakened a once-dormant fascination within me; I now find I require these sessions continuously not because I feel I am dependent upon them but because they fulfill my standard of seeking after enlightenment. Her sessions are as inquisitive as meditation is itself. In fact, her methods go beyond maintenance. I am inspired by her love of life, her vigor and innate truth, and her joy!

My problems are insignificant in comparison to some. But through meditation, and with the help of Stania, I feel like I am learning how to become a part of this world, regardless of what challenges linger in my path. Stania is my coach, my guide, but primarily, a confidant, an irreplaceable friend. There are few in this world like her!