MARIA BLOG 6-18-24

 

Yesterday we took a drive up one of the mountains near Kullu to a Hindu temple. We were able to participate in a thread ceremony.I am not really certain what all of it is about, but I believe it was a blessing of sorts. The priest place a red dot on our foreheads. And tied a thread around our wrist which I think is supposed to represent a wish. And then we walk around the temple together to complete the ceremony.

We then met to participate in a gratitude meeting together and shared a few of the things we were feeling grateful for. Many of the teenagers said they were grateful for their families and for this experience we are having together in India. A few mentioned some other things like shoes, plumbing, and other things that make life much more comfortable. We were then given the letters from our families which was a wonderful surprise. Thank you to all of you that sent letters. You are building then next generation, and it is a bright future.

After the gratitude meeting, we were able to be led in a yoga session. I can’t express how amazing that experience was for me. I don’t know if I will ever be able to practice yoga in India at a temple again. I believe that the teens will appreciate the experience even more as time goes. It was truly a unique experience.

India is a spiritual place and it is neat to experience a place where people practice their beliefs in an open and consistent way.

For my village team, which is the village of Bhuthi, we hike up a mountain every day and at the top of the hill is a temple before we reach the school. The temple is new within the last year, according to our interpreter. She always stops to acknowledge her faith at the temple before moving on, by ringing the bell or other religious gestures I am uncertain of the significance of.

It is important to believe in something. And to reach for meaning in life. My hope is that this experience in India has added to these teenagers’ life search for meaning.

3 Responses to “MARIA BLOG 6-18-24”

1. Stephanie Chamberlain, on June 18th, 2024 at 4:38 pm Said:

   “India is a spiritual place and it is neat to experience a place where people practice their beliefs in an open and consistent way.”. Don’t you wish everyplace could be more open and consistent in practicing their beliefs! How beautiful it must be. And Yoga in such a beautiful setting!!! I really hope the kids appreciated the opportunity for what it was! Thank you for the beautiful update.

2. Jacob VanderToolen, on June 18th, 2024 at 5:12 pm Said:

   Amazing place and amazing views.
   Thank you for sharing.

3. Debbie Foster, on June 18th, 2024 at 10:33 pm Said:

   Thanks for sharing your perspective and thoughts- appreciate you helping them have these experiences, in addition to teaching!