The workshop with Leslie Jamison, fellow writers and their works, the readings, events, and Lisbon itself, etc.--they all truly surpassed anything I'd imagined. Somehow, in spite of how rigorous and stimulating (and packed) the schedule was, I ended up writing quite a bit. I also managed to go out and explore and eat (a lot) and drink (a bit) and talk and laugh (a lot) and get to know truly amazing folks, some of whom I am happy to call friends now. A group of us were talking about this phenomenon one night and someone offered the theory that the intensity of this experience and thoughtful structure of the program allows folks to be a bit more open and vulnerable--often more quickly--to each other in meaningful ways. I think this has been true for me. Being in Lisbon and participating in Disquiet offered a much-needed recalibration. Esther Lee, 2015 Participant