By Travis Newbill
Floral Notes and Bardo: The Creative Chronicles of a Shambhala Mountain Resident is a daily feature on the SMC blog in which a member of our staff/community shares his experience of existing as part of Shambhala Mountain Center.
Changes visible in moonlight — the aspens and my ongoing evolution.
Myself and the newly elected Dekyongs gathered in the fancy upstairs lounge of Shambhala Lodge — it always feels like a VIP room to me, compared to the rustic spaces I typically inhabit. I shared my thoughts and experience related to Head Dekyongship and the Delek System at SMC. I’m committed to ensuring a good, wholesome, transfer of power.
We sat in a circle and through a rousing round of spontaneous insight, elected my buddy Danny to be the next Head Dekyong.
I’m looking forward to being out of the position. There’s a lot going on these days. I’m working extra hours in the Marketng job — we all are — to bring this event to fruition. We’re giving birth. Meanwhile, I’m giving Stupa Tours, doing Ikebana, and beginning teacher training. I’m seeking space within the packed days — trying to enjoy walks to the bathroom.
My life is full. But, I’m sure that’s not true. If more things popped up that I need to do, it would probably be possible to do more things — to rest less, have even less free time. But, eeesh… My personal life, my relationship with Heather, my art (which has been severely neglected lately), is also important!
What is right exertion? Running hotter than is healthy doesn’t feel right.
I want a healthy, balanced, life.
Speaking of health… after many years of not being able to go to the dentist — because I was living a good life as a starving artist, and choosing trips to NYC, Phish concerts, and bags of weed over dental hygiene — I finally went! For a while now, I’ve been wondering which would come first: tooth-ache, tragedy, or getting a check-up and cleaning. The latter won, by a hair.
My mouth is not in good shape, but it could be worse. My teeth are good, but my gums are not. I was told that I need about $20,000 in periodontal surgery. That number is not even real to me. I don’t know what to do.
Aside from that huge WTF, my life is feeling really good, and I feel like I’m learning a lot about how to conduct a good, healthy, life. My finances are balanced, my health is good… But, WHAM.
It feels heartbreaking — knowing that my body needs care that I cannot afford to give it.
I’m going to look around at my options, maybe there’s another way…
DON’T WALLOW IN SELF PITTY
— October 6, 2014
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Travis Newbill is a curious dude on the path of artistry, meditation, and social engagement who is very glad to be residing at Shambhala Mountain Center. His roles within the organization include Marketing Associate and Shambhala Guide — a preliminary teaching position. Follow Travis on twitter: @travisnewbill