Back in Bhutan and things are exciting. We have the UNDP “Sustaining Democracy in Asia” conference at the hotel, with high level representatives from all the Asian governments.
One of the first reminders of what I’ve missed during this summer away is completely altered sense of time here. Another way of saying, nothing works as you think it will. Communications are totally blocked today, transportation is an issue, the plumbing situation is temporarily suspended, and my breakfast was not cooked as promised. What to do. Add to this the steady stream of ministers and officials, the roaming armed security guards, the masses of protocol advisors, the fleet of shiny blue SUVs with drivers in attendance, the gate checks, the diplomats, cameramen, journalists, frantic servers and hotel staff, and what you have is an enormous chaotic mess. Welcome back to Bhutan.
In exchange, there is clear blue sky, fresh clean air, vast expanses of green trees, temples outlined on the tops of stark mountains, smiling faces in colorful dress and endless time. There is plenty of time here. Plenty of space….now settling into that space, getting back into the swing here….more news soon…
Diary of a Pilgrim 