I am here now in Hardiwar. It was tough getting out of Rishikesh today. I had to take a cab as there were not any autorickshaws, shared vans or busses due to the festival. The ride was interesting it is about a thirty mile stretch and there were people camped out on the road the whole way. The cab driver told me that most of the men coming are farmers and in the agriculture business. They come from all over the country.He said most have probably not ever seen a very white person before. Hence the continued staring and harassment. I found out that the Bum Bum Boolah chant is some sort of empowerment to draw the Shiva energy.I am in an internet cafe now and the owner is doing some sort of ritual on an alter that he has constructed. I think it is Aarti a thanksgiving for the Mother Ganga. He has a bowl of water there also.He is chanting Hindu and it is very nice to the ears.The people in India have such strong spritual roots. This most definitely carries over into the education system. Each morning they have an assembly they where they pray and have a yoga centering time. This was at every school we went to regardless of if it was private/public/government run. This I think is one of the their keys to success that is a strong moral base.Anyway, I think it is more crowded here than it was in Rishikesh and I will be happy to return to Delhi tomorrow. I also found out that the man running the internet shop also is a tutor and one of his students just came in. Tutoring is big business here in India and I will explain more about that later. The first thing they did was pray and I can see that this student has great respect for his teacher. I am going to get out now and take a few pictures of the procession. It has been going on now for hours. I leave tomorrow early at 6:20.By the way I did have a beautiful this morning before I left Rishikesh. I got up very early and had a quiet peaceful walk.
Love,
Mary
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7 comments:
Mary,
It sounds like this last week has been colorful, enchanting, perplexing, frustrating, but also peaceful as well. Have an enjoyable and safe journey home. I can't wait to see you.
Nick
I just found your blog and enjoyed it. Will you be posting pictures of India? I knew so missionaries to India and always wanted to go there. I have meant many people from India and enjoyed them. So am enjoying your journals of your trip.
Hi Mary,
How great and courages of you to travel on your own for this last week. It seems that you collected a lot of colourful impressions in Rishikesh. I'm looking forward to talk with you about your experiences.
Have a safe trip back home!!
Love,
Beate
I am so happy for you, Mary! You have really pressed on and forced yourself to keep going amid very challenging circumstances -- this is a great triumph for you!
Your descriptions these past few days of events and encounters are pretty vivid and I just cannot imagine how much you are enjoying this experience. And it sounds like you are doing a great job bridging the cultural gap, too.
Soak it up.
Scott
Sounds like the trip is winding down. I am so glad you have had the blessing to be a part of such an amazing experience. I am sure you will be changed forever in a positive way. How proud I am to call you friend. You have persevered when it was really tough. We look forward to hearing more about your experiences over the next few weeks and months. I know the girls are really looking forward to your return. It is supposed to be cooler here this weekend. I know you will be glad to be back on native soil! Blessings and peace to you as you travel! Cathy
Hi Mary,
Catching up on your blog since I last commented. Been out of town again; had to come back for a meeting, then returning on vacation until Sunday, Aug.12.
I am so encouraged by your spirit and courage. As I read I sometimes wonder if I could do what you have accomplished; your example has helped me reflect and reminds me to appreciate my life and those who impact it each day.
Have a safe trip and am anxious to hear "in person" more about your trip and hope to see all the wonderful pictures.
In my prayers, peace and love,
Joy
WELCOME HOME!!!
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