home again

Last night it snowed again, big fat flakes silently falling from the sky. It happened during shavasana in the beginners class. I was afraid for everyone to look and see it. I am not as tired of the snow as they are, since I missed most of it, and it was beautiful to me!

So, I am waiting to find out how India changed me! If you see any differences let me know!

Actually, I can feel a subtle shift- I am moving slower than I usually do. My practice is sweeter- I am savoring my movements and letting go of more movement for just being. I am thinking that this trip will unfold in me slowly, and I will notice things very gradually. I have discovered one thing. I went with expectations of learning from the yoga teacher in India. I did value my time with him. But, we find our teachers in the most unexpected of places. Our guide in the wildlife preserve was one of those people. He runs Jeep safaris every day, and you would think it might get monotonous after awhile. But I could tell by his body language and the sheer delight on his face that he truly was in that place, in that moment, completely and utterly transfixed by the beauty around him. I am so happy I met him, and that I was able to recognize what was happening. He gave me a gift that day, and I will not forget it. There are not too many people that you find these days that find joy in very simple things- like walking quietly, surrounded by nature.He was equally delighted we enjoyed his favorite spots.

I also found a teacher  in Lingham, my driver in Hyderabad, who chanted the Gayatri Mantra in the car with me on the way to yoga class and allowed me to accompany him to the temple. Even though he had to wait for me as I toured or shopped, he always greeted me with a smile and warmth.The people in India seem very happy. I did not hear any rudeness or shaking of fists at each other as they drove. The first time I felt any “attitude” was when I arrived at the Philadelphia airport and said hello to an employee there, who stared right through me!

I am happy to be back in the studio, and see everyone, and I am happy you were able to come with me on the journey- India is not so far away since you all experienced it too.

So, I am thinking this travel stuff is good! I am pretty much a homebody- sometimes I go for days on end without leaving the property. I am satisfied with being here, in this protected spot, lucky that you all come for class, so I am not a total hermit! I have everything I need. When I do venture out, though, I love it! I am thinking that there are many more places to go- Bali, Italy, Costa Rica, Hawaii. I would love to organize a retreat, and take you with me! Let me know where you want to go, and we will plant the seed, and nurture it together. There is so much to experience.

I have kept journals since 1973. My very favorite books growing up were the Anne of Green Gable series by L.M. Montgomery. In one of my entries, I wrote down one of her little proverbs. Anne, the most wonderful red headed girl in the world says,

“There is so much in the world for us all if we only have the eyes to see it, and the heart to love it, and the hand to gather it to ourselves-so much in men and women, so much in art and literature, so much everywhere in which to delight, and for which to be thankful.” Aahh, so true!