By Melanie Klein

A perfect start.  I’m referring to my first opportunity to lead a program at Shambhala Mountain Center: Retreat and Renewal. I think it’ll be a terrific way to offer something back to this special place that has repeatedly refreshed me, challenged me, and inspired me.  I first came to “the land,” as SMC-ers put it, in 2005 and have been attending programs here ever since.

At Retreat and Renewal, I will be more guide than leader, assisting participants to fill their weekend dance card, so to speak, with whatever appeals: meditation instruction and practice, yoga, hiking, massage, a guided tour of the Great Stupa … On Saturday night I look forward to offering a taste of the dharma, for those so inclined to join, and together exploring skillful approaches that reveal our innate intelligence and good-heartedness, even within the over-busy lives most of us lead. And I’m delighted that our morning meditation sessions will be held in the shrine room with the best view.

It seems to me that Retreat and Renewal is also a perfect way to start for those who’ve been wondering what SMC is like, or who wish to come back, but had a thousand other things to do first. It’s Friday evening through Sunday lunch (offered monthly through May); lodging in Mission-style comfort; letting someone else do the cooking.  Short and sweet, and just maybe… absolutely beautiful.  I can hardly wait to get started.