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October 1, 2010 at 4:41 pm #35483DamonMParticipant
Am I correct in understanding that there will be no more summer retreats at Heavenly Mountain? Im courteous as to why this is? I remember taking Michaels Qigong fundamentals back the first year it was at Heavenly Mountain. It was a great experience for me.
Any info on a new location yet?
Damon.
October 1, 2010 at 5:46 pm #35484StevenModeratorThat is correct.
The owners of the Heavenly Mountain retreat center could no longer
keep it open, as the operating expenses were larger than the
revenue they could bring in.Michael is in the process of organizing a new location for the
retreats. It will be in NC, and closer to the airport, near
Asheville. A new place has tentatively been found, but I
suspect that Michael is waiting to release a more public
statement when plans get more solidified for next summer.Of course, the best way for individuals to continue to support
the health of the retreats is to attend them. The health
and future of the retreat program is contingent upon the
level of interest and participation by individuals who value them.S
October 1, 2010 at 7:24 pm #35486DamonMParticipantSteve,
Thanks for the info.
Of course, the best way for individuals to continue to support
the health of the retreats is to attend them. The health
and future of the retreat program is contingent upon the
level of interest and participation by individuals who value them.Agreed. I have wanted and will continue to come to the retreats in the future as possible. Many changes within my personal life including a new marriage to a wonderful Brazilian woman. And also some job changes. Time and finances have been thin as of late for me.
Of course the best thing would be for Michael to move the whole operation to California. But that’s just a self centered little fantasy of mine. 😉
Damon
October 1, 2010 at 10:26 pm #35488StevenModeratorHi Damon,
Sorry to razz you a little bit 😉
I was speaking somewhat generally about some noticed
lower enrollments over the past couple years . . .
economic recession fears and personal finance issues
being a big player . . .
I’ve talked with a number of people that have been
highly interested in the retreats, but have told me
that they can’t come because they are too strapped for cash.On that end, I suggest a different approach.
I suggest people who are interested in coming, don’t
“wait and see” if they can come. Instead, they just make a
decision that the retreats are important and that they
“will be coming” no matter what, i.e. make a decision about
next summer NOW. Then, set up a savings account (nickname
it “Retreats” if you wish) and proactively deposit
$50/$100/whatever on a pay period basis into that account.
Done regularly, you get “used to” the lower income level
and don’t miss the money. When the time of the retreats happens,
money is no longer an issue; it is already set aside for you.
This has been my approach and has allowed me to take more
retreats yearly than I would have been able to otherwise.
As an example, if someone puts away 10% of their paycheck into
such an account, then someone making $25,000/yr would have
$2500 in a year (plus interest), enough for airfare and
maybe two retreats! Of course people have to have the
time free from work, but by saving vacation time and planning
ahead, it should be doable.Note:
The above is general commentary, and is not meant to be
directed personally to you. The only thing I want to say
personally is that I would like to extend to you
the warmest wishes and congratulations on your new marriage!!!
That’s fantastic, Damon! And a nice surprise.
Thanks for sharing your good news . . .Best,
StevenOctober 4, 2010 at 6:34 pm #35490DamonMParticipantFor the warm wishes.
I hope to see you in the future at another Summer Retreat.
and thanks for the strategic planning tips. Makes complete sense. And leaves me with little or no excuses for planning my next trip 🙂
Hope your well,
Damon.
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