In the emotionally intense setting of a weekend encounter group, dramatic experiences and insights often take place. However, the ultimate benefits or enduring effects of specific episodes are difficult to assess. In the absence of tangible, long‐range tokens of positive change, group facilitators may. create their rewards by rationalizing the results of their own manipulations. Based on his experience, the author reflects on how a facilitator's desire to be facilitative may obscure the line between wishful thinking and common sens