I’ve been enchanted by Taos, New Mexico, where I’ve spent the past month. I attended the Taos Summer Writer’s Conference and taught a bit at Shree Yoga, but mostly I’ve just been marveling at the gorgeous scenery. It recently occurred to me that this journey is not necessarily leading anywhere. What a relief! Because IContinue reading “Keep on Keeping On”
Category Archives: Pilgrim’s journey
Ask and You Shall Receive
A few days ago I walked up the hill to see Rabjam Rinpoche. I had a few questions about how to proceed in my life. I asked him to do a mo, or divination for me. It turns out he refers all mo activity to one of his monks who is apparently the mo specialist. Continue reading “Ask and You Shall Receive”
Nothing Happening
Nothing happens in Bhutan. Even when you think something is happening, it isn’t. Sure, it looks like stuff is happening. Cows traipse in the middle of the road, eagles soar in tandem overhead, pine trees droop and drape and announce themselves with great dignity over vast expanses of hillside. Large Indian army trucks honk theirContinue reading “Nothing Happening”
Goodbye Guruji
It seems strange to say it, but I didn’t realize how profound of an impact Pattabhi Jois had on my life. Our personal connection was not that strong; I don’t think he ever knew my name. But for the past 17 years, his presence on this earth has impacted almost every aspect of my life.Continue reading “Goodbye Guruji”
Kila Nunnery
A few of us girls hiked the gorgeous one hour up to the Kila Nunnery on Sunday. Starting from the top of Cheli La (La means mountain pass) we climbed through thick old forest and bright blooming red rhododendron. On all sides, in the distance, were snow covered mountain ranges. Above is a snow packedContinue reading “Kila Nunnery”
Expanding Views
I was looking out over the vast valley this chilly morning, the high peaks covered in fresh snow, and there was a moment of expansion. Perspective, perhaps. How easy it is to get caught in our own little world, to fixate on pain and discomfort. Standing there staring into the immense space created by skyContinue reading “Expanding Views”
Neyphug’s Monks
Over the past few weeks we have gone up to Neyphug Monastery to make offerings to the little monks: shoes, hats, longjohns. The 60 young monks are either orphaned, from abusive homes, or otherwise disadvantaged, and Neyphug Tulku has given them a home and education at the monastery.
Back Again in Paro
Well it seems I have more to do here…on the eve of my departure a sudden shift in the fabric of the universe created an invitation to return to teach here for another month, at another resort. I never even made it to Bangkok. Two weeks of prostrating under the Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya mustContinue reading “Back Again in Paro”
Following Machig’s footsteps to Ha valley
Well things are winding down here, sadly. I would stay a lot longer if I could. Drove to Ha, the next valley over with a few friends, 2 Bhutanese girls (Sonam and Sonam) and firey Sri Lankan Ashok, giggling most of the day. We brought a big picnic and a camera, and when we arrivedContinue reading “Following Machig’s footsteps to Ha valley”
Taktsang
Winter is in the air dropping pine needles on my head. A velvet chill lines a good wind, fluttering prayer flags in its wake. Puffs of chimney smoke cloud the road where I take my afternoon walk. A new season has been announced, and I feel slightly wiser today. Perhaps this is due to blessingsContinue reading “Taktsang”
Diary of a Pilgrim 