“It’s strange to be here, the mystery never leaves you.” The late Irish poet, John O’Donohue, wrote these words at the beginning of his book, Anam Cara. I’ve thought of them often during these past 10 months in Garhwal. On a sunset walk through Buddha Field, appreciating the silent meditation of the Eucalyptus trees; crushing cardamom with a heavy blackstone and making chai with raw buffalo milk; engaging Anand ji in a discussion about the “mind-field” and David Bohm’s experiments with “spontaneous dialogue.” Poignant moments of connection and awareness. How strange to be here; how strange to be alive. Anand ji has often reminded me that this sensory world is all Maya—an impermanent mirage. And that may be, but it’s sure been one hell of an illusional ride.
I write this final reflection in a plane somewhere over southern Sweden, 3500 miles from home. Home in the relative sense, of course. Home, if defined as one’s place of permanent residence, has been 4 different countries (India twice) over the past 7 years. But home will always be where family and friends are. And that means home will always be spoken of in the plural.
So, I’m coming home (to one of my homes) and I couldn’t be happier. India will continue to be another home and one that I undoubtedly return to many more times.
With Love and Gratitude for sharing an amazing journey with me,
Mountain John
P.S. I’ve posted several new Tales on my personal Blog: www.johninindia.wordpress.com.
Check out the new APV webpage here: www.apvschool.org
Finally, two new videos.
“The Fish Who Grew Too Big For His Lake“: http://www.vimeo.com/26721970
“The American-Garhwali Dance Off“: http://www.vimeo.com/26667057
Hi John,
I hope your fellowship has wrapped up well. I was checking out your blog because I will be also working in Uttarakhand via AIF starting this September. I was wondering if you had any advice how how I might prepare myself or insights on things that would be good to bring along. I’ll be in Satoli near Almora. I’m not sure how close it is to your area, but I’d love to chat via email if you’re able.
Best,
Sara