Member for

5 years 7 months
Photo
Cover Photo
bergamot blooms in a summer field
First Name
Deborah
Last Name
Haak-Frost
Biography

If you make a reservation for a retreat at GilChrist, you will most likely see my name on the email signature, talk with me on the phone, or see my face when you arrive. I’ve always delighted in being able to connect people with the natural world in ways that allow them to experience their environment deeply and meaningfully. My undergraduate degree in psychology and environmental studies paved the way for this beautiful integration of two passions of mine. The principles of permaculture – earth care, people care, and fair share – also shape my approach to my work. Making rest and retreat more accessible for all is something I try to work toward.

I also do a lot of the behind-the-scenes logistics and administrative work at GilChrist: working with group retreat facilitators, handling billing, managing social media, keeping the website up to date, cataloging the library, and also pitching in with cabin cleaning and feeding the goats.

When I’m not at work, you can find me volunteering in my Three Rivers community, cooking and baking in my kitchen, taking in thought-provoking television and movies with my husband, or daydreaming about grand garden plans for my backyard.

Job Title
Caretaker for Community Engagement
Cover Caption
Bergamot blooms in this summer view from the GilChrist office
Engagement Results Display
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Staff Department
GilChrist Retreat Center
Department or Org
GilChrist
Email
dhaak@fetzer.org
Submitted by dhaak on Sat, 10/10/2020 - 10:56

This piece is part of a series offered by the GilChrist team during the month of October about practices of healing, in honor of GilChrist’s 25th anniversary on October 15.

 

The Tao of Puck the Goat

What a special fellow you are
So unaware and useless it seems.

But I know better-
You are wise and witty
You don’t ask for what you want
You just assume it is there for you.

I love that you are so unconscious
You have no shame
You do not judge
You are just present and aware of the moment-
Waiting for any treat I might give you, 
And, that I will scratch your back and give you
A friendly word or two.

I love too, that I can be ‘Gail’ when I’m with
Puck the Goat.

Topics
Southwest Michigan
Partner
GilChrist Retreat Center
Blog Category
Reflections
Author
Gail Walters
Event Category
GilChrist
Slideshow
black and white goat chewing on grass