Bliss Web Design - Damon C Newcomb
Early years:
I was born in Damriscotta, Maine, on September 22, 1950; during the Korean War. Food rationing was in effect, and I was raised on canned milk ( I’ve always liked that stuff). I am an only child, but at least half the lobster fishermen in Friendship Maine are related to me. I attended Poland Community School, and then later, Oxford Hills High School. I was never popular, but did well academically (at least after a while.) I attended the University of Southern Maine, in the early 70s, but was more interested in the counterculture than in my academic work. I dropped out after two years, and went to work! My college years were formative, and many of my values were developed during that time. Like many, I wanted to be rich, famous, handsome, and happy!
Middle years:
In summary, I drifted for almost 20 years! I became bored with work and changed jobs often. I saw the world of work from many perspectives, including; manager of a chicken hatchery, construction laborer, security guard, truck driver, heavy equipment operator, carpenter’s assistant, maintenance man, lifeguard, landscaping foreman, gravedigger, copier repair man, general laborer, factory worker, clerical assistant, short order cook, dishwasher,and probably a few others which I can’t recall! Eventually, I returned to the University, obtained a bachelor’s degree in psychology, graduated summa cum laude, and begin looking for a graduate school. These years taught me what it means to work hard with your hands. I was struggling with my sense of identity during these years, and fighting an on again, off again battle with depression. An excellent psychodynamic orientated psychotherapist helped me explore my identity and potential, and opened up new possibilities for me within the context of our work. Thanks Ken!
Recent years and the present:
I entered a Masters level counseling psychology program at Frostburg State University in 1991. I did quite well; discovering that living in a world of ideas suited me. The program encouraged me to become more integrated emotionally, and fostered an approach to psychotherapy which I endorse and try to implement today; the work takes place in a crucible of relationship, and has more to do with the mystery of connecting with another human being than it does with technique. Sometimes the client changes, and sometimes I do! I love the work, and I am never bored!
I met my lovely wife, Jackie Brown, during my graduate time at Frostburg. Our home in Lavale Maryland is filled with the creative work that flows from her hands, and the work of her friends, other ceramic artists. I always wanted to own a home built of brick, and now I do! Dogs have been my friends ever since I was so small I could get into the doghouse with them! We share our home with two great dogs; a long-haired dachshund and a labrador mix. I am presently employed by the Alleghany County Health Department within their Adolescent Clinic program. I work at Green Ridge Youth Center, in Flintstone Maryland, under a contract with the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. I provide mental health services to 40 youths between the ages of 13 and 18; most of who come from inner-city environments from the more populated areas of Maryland. The job makes me very aware of how much the world has changed since I was their age!
I believe that, on the deepest level, life is a spiritual journey. I started out as a Congregationalist, then became a Unitarian Universalist in my 30s. My belief in Christ opened my heart in an epiphany during graduate school. This experience in turn led me to seek refuge in the three jewels; the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Although I did not get rich, famous, or handsome, I ended up happy! I am indeed a lucky man, and wish the same for you!
May all beings be safe. May all beings be happy. May there be an end to suffering!
