We first noticed them in Delhi…Indians wearing funky T-shirts emblazoned with lovely script that read, Being Human. I found it noteworthy that none of the shirts said, “Doing Human”.
It has become abundantly clear in these days spent in the ashram, and during the previous two-weeks walking in Wales, that when I’m at home, I spend a bizarre amount of time on the computer, a ridiculous other amount of time doing who-knows-what, and very little time just being.
Down time is key to assimilate any new information and/or experiences and to actually process whatever has happened. It is necessary to stop the barrage of constant stimuli that says you must stay tuned in, tapped in, and on-top-of, whatever is ‘trending’ (Oh, how I despise that word).
Funny thing. We’ve been in this ashram bubble with no news from anywhere, and guess what? Haven’t really missed a thing.
The Swami has said that, “…silence is the answer for all the deep questions.”
I think silence works pretty well for all the not-so-deep questions too. In fact, I think it just might be the cure for everything. I feel a bumper sticker coming on… Seek Silence.
So, I now have a plan for my re-entry in to my ‘real’ life.
I am going to create more nothing time. Of course, nothing in this context actually turns out to mean absolutely everything.
Hello to the Four Annes, which every time I see in print reminds me of a shady dilapidated hotel on the east-side that at one time was a gorgeous popular place to stay. “Ah yes driver, take me to the Four Anns, we’ll be dining at 7”. All kidding aside, I have not sent my usual responses because I am back in that hustling-bustling world you left behind, details not necessary.
I must tell you, or rather remind you, when your blog pops up I do not open it and read willy-nilly. I wait for the perfect moment when all is calm, my special blend of coffee in hand, feet up with silence surrounding me. I have enjoyed the unraveling adventures in Wales, the hills & mountains, the extreme weather conditions and the curious folk along the way. Now I am contemplating the noise in my life, and I too am seeking silence, more and more. Thank you for blogging and filling me with your insight and wonder. Giving me my own thoughts along the way. One question, has there been any knitting or homeopathic concoctions at anytime during the peaceful non eventful moments? I’m thinking not, but just had to ask.
Oh Karen…your comment was worth waiting for. I love the vision of the Four Annes Hotel. Maybe it’s run by four spinster sisters who still cover everything with doilies and yellowing lace tablecloths.
I can just picture you with your coffee and am honoured that you wait until the right moment, with coffee in hand…If you can imagine this, I’m not missing my coffee at all. What’s up with that? And yes, Viola ann has been doing a little knitting but not much. She’s been doing lots of sewing though, buying and altering garments. And yes, Susan Anne has a shelf of homeopathic remedies at the ready…So far, we’re pretty healthy. Thanks again for the vision of the hotel. I feel like it’s a hotel I can ‘see’ now…
Love the way you write, Colleen. You four look quite radiant in your being and even, dare I say, quite stylish . . .
Thank you Carol 🙂 Though I have to tell you that the Swami is constantly talking about getting rid of the ego and it sounds suspiciously like the sin of pride, we were always told about it. I am feeling like my face is much more relaxed, so I’m going to own that radiant comment…then again, could just be from the constant sweatage…
Hi girls,
On the eve of my last sleep before leaving for Indonesia, I find myself calm and relaxed after reading through your blogs. I always found the cities of India to be like a kaleidoscope with the constant motion of colour. Your description of Rishikesh certainly brought it back. You four Ann(e)s all look very centered – looking forward to swapping stories when we are all back on the coast. Namaste. Sheila
Hello Sheila, Thanks for writing before you jet off to your own adventure. Kaleidoscope is exactly the right word. A swirling frenzy of colour and sound…though here in our little ashram bubble we have been insulated from nothing but birds and the odd thunder-shower. There is no doubt that we are all definitely feeling mellow. We’re not sure if we’re going to be able to move fast enough in the ‘real’ world. We kind of shuffle around in a fog of OHMs. Stay safe and stay in touch when you can. Namaste, Colleen
This sounds SO good to me *logs off of computer with a smile*
Hey Claire! Thanks for visiting. Yes indeedy, I see less doing, and more hanging out and just being in my future. Glad to have the company 🙂