Wed, 10 Sep 2008 09:09:10 AM -0400 http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V6DGQ#commentskrishnahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V6DGQWed, 10 Sep 2008 09:09:10 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7H4A35#comments]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7H4A35Sun, 3 Aug 2008 11:28:32 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7GR8AJ#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7GR8AJFri, 25 Jul 2008 11:24:40 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7EMHW4#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7EMHW4Tue, 17 Jun 2008 01:47:05 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7E58SR#comments ]]>Universal Spirithttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7E58SRSun, 15 Jun 2008 01:45:59 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7C52QB#commentsUn-done physical spaces can't disappear. They just alter with time until they either come into existence... or not. And who knows, they may come into existence without quite so many drafts, foundation shifts, creaks, shims, paint scrapers, heat hemorrhages, roof leaks and unexpected repair costs.
I find that I really don't miss our last house nearly as much as I thought I might. Now I have a new set of opportunities, which includes some of the old possibilities dressed in new clothes.]]>Mikehttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7C52QBSun, 16 Mar 2008 01:50:15 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7C52QB#comments
And I shall miss that house as well.

]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7C52QBTue, 26 Feb 2008 12:41:56 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7ATUCE#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-7ATUCEMon, 4 Feb 2008 11:39:12 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-79M7UJ#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-79M7UJThu, 6 Dec 2007 12:48:20 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-797QEF#comments
Thank you for this heart-opening piece.]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-797QEFThu, 22 Nov 2007 11:09:25 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-78M6MB#commentsare the divine light we wish we were.

]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-78M6MBMon, 5 Nov 2007 01:17:56 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-78D3CB#comments
thank you]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-78D3CBWed, 31 Oct 2007 10:03:20 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-77F4VQ#commentsI could not find email to you so I write here:
I have been browsing around philosophy, religion and similar sites for hours now and just ran
across yours: ...it's very nice.

Your site visitors may well be interested in wisdom quotes at my site www.jagadguruchrisbutler.com
If you like my site please consider linking to it however you like on your page.

I think my site matches well with the theme on your page.
Either way thanks for reading this and keep up the great work!

Thanks
]]>Alex - follower of Jagad Guruhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-77F4VQFri, 28 Sep 2007 06:42:03 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-77F4VQ#commentshttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-77F4VQFri, 28 Sep 2007 06:42:00 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-76F7WL#commentsSitahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-76F7WLTue, 11 Sep 2007 11:40:03 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-7626NY#comments
What else in this manifested world do I cherish? That feels like excellent fodder for words for my own web journal. ]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-7626NYTue, 28 Aug 2007 06:43:16 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-75A6RU#comments
Letters on a page like pearls on a string, or colors in a painting, or notes in a song, or waves of light that falls on the earth...

I am glad a few letters on a page make a difference in your life.]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-75A6RUSun, 22 Jul 2007 01:50:51 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-75A6RU#comments
They are just words. Just letters arranged on a page, after all. . .]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-75A6RUFri, 20 Jul 2007 11:22:26 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-74Z7F6#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-74Z7F6Mon, 16 Jul 2007 11:41:17 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-74T5M6#comments
But it is not mine to accept, since I write only what I see... offering it up to a world of wonders.]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-74T5M6Mon, 9 Jul 2007 03:20:27 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-74T5M6#comments
Yep.

Brilliant.

You are, and this piece is.

]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-74T5M6Thu, 5 Jul 2007 10:16:47 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-73S68J#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-73S68JSun, 3 Jun 2007 01:47:57 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-72XA8K#comments
]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-72XA8KThu, 24 May 2007 07:26:34 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-73G8FV#comments

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Dreams on the Wind (a song)

A word from the wind at the window pane,
whispered to give you the news,
that in the heart, if one listens sharp
are found all your Beautiful Truths.

More love than could ever be wanted,
tender touch and companionship rare,
like dragonflies flying spring dances,
your dreams take to shimmering air.

And this life of alone that you're thinking,
is the only one held in your hand,
if your ear to the earth can't reveal,
then perhaps heart and patience, they can.

So the sky that comes next waits so sweetly
because it can know what we can't
and the wind that caresses your future
whispers take off your shoes now and dance.

More love than could ever be wanted,
more touch and companionship rare,
like dragonflies flying spring dances,
your dreams take to shimmering air.]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-73G8FVThu, 24 May 2007 07:24:40 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VF7BW#comments]]>Zoehttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VF7BWWed, 25 Apr 2007 05:38:45 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6ZULS3#comments
At the end of the halcyon days,
came spring,
came spring.
The moon, though beautiful,
set at last,
and the sun warmed my earth.

The small and fragile seed
planted itself,
planted itself.
The weeds, though persistent,
and also beautiful,
yielded to a fresh and hopeful green.

And finally it was heard,
the Truth,
the Truth.
The heart, though watery,
whispered, hushed,
"I just want to Be, myself."
]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6ZULS3Sat, 7 Apr 2007 12:23:03 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6YPU4G#comments ]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6YPU4GSat, 24 Feb 2007 02:15:39 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6YF7K5#comments
The best result of writing, I think.

thank you for the beauty.]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6YF7K5Thu, 15 Feb 2007 12:38:50 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6YCVHT#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6YCVHTThu, 15 Feb 2007 12:32:10 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6YEV6A#comments
We are here to love one another and help each other heal wounds which result from being human.

We are here to lift one another up to the Light when our own ability to rise fails us.

We are here to learn to clear our hearts' passageways so light from heaven can pour into us and shine through us to other beings---and so we can hear the whispers and shouts of God all around us and within us.

We are not just here to be here, though just Being Here is Good and Great. It is not all, no, it is not all.



]]>Sitarahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6YEV6AThu, 15 Feb 2007 12:28:19 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XM6YD#commentsthat, ladies and gentlemen, is writing. . .the best sort, which touches the soul and challenges the mind simultaneaously."

One of the most indelible experiences of my life was given to me recently. On a clear night in the White Mountains, I laid down to rest under the night sky, snuggled into my sleeping bag, looked up, and was greeted by a zillion white stars, all flashing Light to me. I was so diminished in that moment, and so enlarged---so suddenly filled up with Knowing my place, that I burst into tears of gratitude for the Great Gift of witnessing.

The night sky is a Magical Thing. ]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XM6YDSat, 20 Jan 2007 05:43:36 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XGR85#commentsSweet devotion, that is the sense to which we must return, again and again; and somewhere surrounding that sweetness, the strength and the dedication to protect it from the vinegar of life -- dedication being slightly more forceful than devotion, and called for when times are more difficult. Subtle word, and important concept, devotion.]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XGR85Sat, 20 Jan 2007 03:23:24 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XGR85#commentsKimberlyhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XGR85Fri, 19 Jan 2007 10:51:17 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XDG85#comments]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6XDG85Tue, 16 Jan 2007 11:35:41 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6X8P6J#commentsMarkhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6X8P6JTue, 9 Jan 2007 01:52:19 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6X8P6J#commentsAmen.

People consistantly comment on my statement "I don't listen to news, don't read the paper, and don't watch tv" with utter disbelief. I've never been more at peace---deep, soul-level peace-- as in this last year, which has contained soul-feeding music, cooking, writing, poetry, lovemaking, traveling, laughter, conversations with friends, hiking, working, yoga, meditation, reading, and Silence . . .but no soul-robbing t.v. and no news on the radio . . .

And as time passes, beauty feeds on beauty and yearns to grow. I add to my collection of Kirtan music, and share it with others--Stringer included . To a person, the friends with whom I've shared this Sacred music all love it. The heart seems to recognize instantly that which nourishes it, whether in a friend, a lover, a poem, a bit of writing, or a song. . .
and with that, I realize I have missed Neruda, and am off to feed my heart a bit of sweet dessert.
]]>Sitarahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6X8P6JMon, 8 Jan 2007 01:36:51 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6WW6JR#commentsfor all tenderness and kindness that a human might express

If the heart will then bear witness,
and will bear the weight of loss

The heart that closes, blinds itself, and shutters light and life
While the heart that opens loves and breaks and loves, without remorse.]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6WW6JRSat, 30 Dec 2006 11:27:52 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WXRER#commentsHe Was Love Once

He was an infant once,
full of love and innocence.
was he cared for well?
only time would tell.

He was a small boy once,
full of motion and laughter,
or was the Light already
far gone by then?

Did his mother ever hold him close,
and tell him he mattered most,
that we are all God's children
we should love each other well?

Was his father there,
how broken was the heir
by the time he turned a man,
by the time he took her hand?

What made him cry,
did he ever ask why,
what doubts kept him awake,
were there ghosts he couldn't shake?

All I know is the world's gone wild,
when we can kill this child,
because he was love once,
he was once innocence.

Is it strange that I cry tears for
this man who should be feared,
who hated all so well?
time will never tell.

But really, it's a matter of love,
something he never had enough of,
and now I hope he can see from where he is
he was love once.

He was love once.]]>Sitarahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WXRERSat, 30 Dec 2006 07:09:15 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6WW6JR#comments
And while thinking, while allowing questions to be felt and asked absent words which obscure the Truth, one can also stop seeking entirely. One opens to the Fullness that Is, that always, always Is. One need only stop and still long enough to Know, and this can take an instant, just one beautiful instant. Humans seek, and the Sun Is. Love/Source/God/Sacred/Divine Light/Our Sun is not hiding, so must we seek? Maybe. Maybe not.

That, the eternal realm of the Absolute, is full;

This, the transitory realm of the relative, is full.

From the fullness of one emerges the fullness of the other;

Fullness coming from fullness, yet a single fullness remains.

from the Upanishads


(p.s. It depends on the particular humans involved, but when undertaken with exquisite awareness, approached as a prayer-- carefully--with care--it's utter light. )]]>Sitarahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6WW6JRSat, 30 Dec 2006 02:27:46 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WU8ZK#commentsdoes live a full life, one doesn't have a lot of time to write, now does one?!

Cooking a delicious, saffron-infused souffle . . .now that's an act of creation and beautiful tinder for a pen on fire (or keyboard, as it were.)

Charmingly-written and informative entry! (No, I did not know one should grind and mix the saffron with sugar and water, but did know it was from a gorgeous crocus blossom.)]]>Kimberly/Sitahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WU8ZKFri, 29 Dec 2006 09:19:31 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WMGCW#comments
Thank you so much for your kind words. There was a time, when I was younger, when the hours were mine and mine alone, I would wake up into light and whatever it illuminated was mine to explore. All I did was explore, of course... but it was then that I gave myself time to write and write, and then that I could elaborate ideas as an offering back to the world.

These days, until I remove some of the responsibilities I have accumulated over time -- did you know that the dust of the world really does stick to you? -- it seems the odd morning and evening hours are given to meditation, movement, and sometimes a word or two.

With your beautiful encouragement, perhaps I move more toward the keyboard than toward other pursuits.

Namaste.]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WMGCWThu, 28 Dec 2006 07:42:55 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WMGCW#commentsare flipping brilliant. . .*smiling and shaking my head in constant admiration, respect, love, and amazement*

It occurs to me that what you need, perhaps, is to do what you are clearly called to do, and that is: write, write, and write, holding up this diamond and that emerald to the world for all to examine more closely . . .for all to cherish more deeply because you have hold it up, point, and thus illuminate it.

And psssst, people pay people to write, you know?!

]]>Sitahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WMGCWTue, 19 Dec 2006 09:13:39 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WCHZF#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6WCHZFMon, 11 Dec 2006 09:12:12 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6W7PPF#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6W7PPFMon, 11 Dec 2006 09:03:04 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V9ESZ#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V9ESZMon, 11 Dec 2006 08:51:27 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VYKDL#commentsMarkhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VYKDLThu, 30 Nov 2006 11:32:24 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VYKDL#commentsthis, you will never again lose.

Place the prism on one side, says the Mother, and the light is white, turn it over, and the light is broken up. Well, this is exactly what happens; you restore the white. In the ordinary consciousness everything is broken up, and now you restore the white.

Mother also described the experience in this way: You are seated before a closed door, as it were, a heavy bronze door, and you are there wishing it would open to let you pass to the other side. So all your concentration, all your aspiration is gathered up in a single beam, which begins to push and push and push against that door, to push harder and harder, with increasing energy, until suddenly the door gives way. And you enter, as if thrust into the light.

Then one is truly born."

Satprem, quoting Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, in Sri Aurobindo, or The Adventure of Consciousness


Reading this quote from The Adventure of Consciousness created one of those lovely moments of recognition. Ah ha! Yes, that is what it felt like. For so long, pushing, pushing, pushing on those heavy gigantic bronze doors . . .wishing . . .oh, the longing for them to open. And the tears, then anger, then more tears, when they didn't budge!

Then finally, one surrenders, softens and stills, and realizes the sort of pushing one was doing was All Wrong.

Ignorance is the worst darkness.

Nothing yet in this life has felt better, or been felt more deeply, than when in my silent surrender and gentle concentration, the door gave way and I recovered my Sun. ]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VYKDLThu, 30 Nov 2006 07:29:18 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VSGQH#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VSGQHSat, 25 Nov 2006 04:08:02 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VF7EE#comments ]]>Bela, Mark's daughterhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VF7EEFri, 24 Nov 2006 08:45:27 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VSAWP#comments

I like your daily schedulinho . . .some chai, a walk on the beach, some yoga, a little brunch with some interesting Brits, some "home" time, meditation, another walk . . .dinner, even if alone, must be delicious and peaceful. Then more time with the beautiful waves and sand. ahhhhhh!

Much to be thankful for, it appears!

Be well! ]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VSAWPThu, 23 Nov 2006 12:52:10 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VP752#commentskhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VP752Mon, 20 Nov 2006 07:55:05 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VQBD8#comments
Shouldn't it?]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VQBD8Mon, 20 Nov 2006 08:37:50 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VQBD8#comments]]>Mannyhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VQBD8Mon, 20 Nov 2006 08:32:40 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VP752#comments
I hope Manny will keep us posted on Life in Goa. The blog, in any case, will be continued -- we left the States with an intention, to move into new areas of teaching and awareness through our study here in India, but it is clear to me that the Well Lit Path upon which we embarked stretches out into the future... so the borders of India won't cloe the chapters here.

It will be fun and interesting to see what presents itself as topics over the next few weeks and months!]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VP752Mon, 20 Nov 2006 05:09:51 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VP752#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VP752Sun, 19 Nov 2006 08:52:38 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VN6VD#commentsnot to be here, but in the surrounding areas. The motorcycle freed all that up, so I let our excellent off-the-beach hotel be our base, the good restaurants be our fodder (cows in the restaurants, goodness: fodder is the right word), and be drawn into the beauty and the stillness of the outlying countryside -- where the inhabitants of the villages opened up with smiles or waves as we passed, the vistas opened to the eyes, and the slow rhythm of the waves let the heart be soft, soft...]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VN6VDSat, 18 Nov 2006 11:20:14 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VN6VD#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6VN6VDSat, 18 Nov 2006 11:52:35 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V2EJ5#commentsMarkhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V2EJ5Thu, 16 Nov 2006 11:00:36 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V2EJ5#commentsMonsoon

Delicate drizzling mist
then liquid sheets,
flooding Divine earth
to ankle deep.

Penetrating every glistening, trembling leaf,
soaking every still piece of baked chocolate ground.

Watery blessings on Sacred Terra,
anointed with holiest water,
sprinkled from God's hands
onto bodies of gods and goddesses manifest.

For one god and one goddess,
sacred waters came down,
and came through,
and came in,
forever washing them,
in the monsoon of their creation.]]>TMhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V2EJ5Thu, 16 Nov 2006 01:18:18 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6V9FFM#comments
This photo deeply touches my heart as few others from your journey have. ]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6V9FFMTue, 14 Nov 2006 11:59:32 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA9P#comments .

But most of them pleasant, or earthy, with even cattle and other animals pushing their way through a space not designed for all of us...

Oh, I forgot to mention that we were latched onto by a young man there, some 13 years old, perhaps. I thought oh, man, now we have to unleech ourselves again. He asked if we wanted to buy something, and when we shrugged his advances off, he said "Psst, Mister, just be careful, no buy sandal oils in the market, not good oils, make you sick!"

The sincerity and well-wishing in his voice made me stop and turn, and thank him with equal sincerity... Unexpected kindnesses...]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA9PMon, 13 Nov 2006 02:31:15 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA7A#comments
Anyway, the majority of the color came away from his hand when washed... but there was a good blue mark for a couple of days. Words to the wise!]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA7AMon, 13 Nov 2006 02:26:33 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VG8J9#commentsIt's been wonderful to follow your travels so far. It has all seemed such an experience for you and Mark. I look forward to hearing your comments when you get back. Everyone is doing well here. May God continue to light your path.
Love,
Letty]]>Lettyhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VG8J9Sun, 12 Nov 2006 10:54:54 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978#comments]]>Mannyhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978Sat, 11 Nov 2006 01:15:31 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978#comments
Manny, I read Sri Aurobindo's words today and these seemed to touch on what you're experiencing in India.

I'm so happy for your journeys -- the one in India, and the one about which we've spoken, which reaches the heavens within you.

Namaste, my friend.

]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978Fri, 10 Nov 2006 12:44:27 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA9P#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA9PFri, 10 Nov 2006 12:30:45 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA7A#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VDA7AFri, 10 Nov 2006 12:28:58 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VD9WQ#comments

Ingenious use of the reflective surface (she said, smirkily.)

You both look so happy and . . .and . . .I see a brilliant new light shining from and through you. (or not new, but brighter than ever before?!) ]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/pictures/MTSZ-6VD9WQFri, 10 Nov 2006 12:25:13 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978Thu, 9 Nov 2006 07:01:57 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978#commentspaula]]>paulahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6VD978Thu, 9 Nov 2006 12:03:37 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V8H3D#comments
Kat]]>kathttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V8H3DSun, 5 Nov 2006 09:35:55 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V9F32#comments(Oh, rats--the little face wouldn't come up.)]]>georgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V9F32Sun, 5 Nov 2006 08:38:02 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V8HAU#comments
I see you were there. A jet of light from the setting sun, a wash of light from the rising moon, and no door... Only the window of the eyes.]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V8HAUSun, 5 Nov 2006 06:05:07 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V8HAU#commentsSome Kiss We Want

There is some kiss we want
with our whole lives

The touch of spirit on the body

The pearl begs seawater
to break its shell

And the orchid, how passionately
it needs light and air

At night I open the window

And ask the moon to press
her face against mine

Breathe into me

I breathe in spirit
breathe out love

in an endless shimmering, magical circle

Close the language door

And open the love window

The moon won't use the door

Spirit won't either

Only the window.



Yes.]]>Kim (inspired by and a few words borrowed from Rumi)http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V8HAUSat, 4 Nov 2006 04:43:39 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V6DGQ#commentsSavitri, a work in English poetry that would have been in all the course curricula of all schools -- had we even the slightest penchant for inner awareness in our general culture. Well, maybe I found it 20 years later than I would have liked... but I found it!]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V6DGQSat, 4 Nov 2006 09:30:35 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V6DGQ#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V6DGQThu, 2 Nov 2006 07:15:45 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V5CYU#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V5CYUWed, 1 Nov 2006 06:41:22 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V483C#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V483CWed, 1 Nov 2006 06:31:45 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6V39DJ#comments
Once the water channels were stablized, the watertable began to rise, and they were able to control irrigation enough to plant trees. And did they ever plant! A hundred, two hundred square miles of trees? More? They created nurseries to give special care to seedlings, cultivated saplings, which were then hardy enough to transplant. To have an understory, where bushes and grasses and insects survive, you need cover. They planted drought-resistant species. Once a modest break was created, and enough organic matter was at hand, they tilled small areas and planted grass, which cows now graze untended.

Permaculture practice states that, for coastal areas, the planting of trees serves several purposes: first and foremost, it creates the protection I just described. As important, however, its leaves and body capture moisture from the humid sea breezes, which runs down the trunk and falls everywhere within the tree's dripline -- the reach of its branches. Literally, a tree is the mother to all things which lie beneath its outstreched arms.

Finally, that captured moisture doesn't simply dissipate into the air, as would happen with surface moisture in a barren land. Instead, rains and mists are held in this micro ecology, to later transpire into the sky to assist in the formation of cloud mass... which then moves inland to create MORE rain. The opposite is the process of desertification, which is helped by global changes in temperature, but triggered by an ax in the hand of humans.

Replanting has made this place what it is today. ]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6V39DJTue, 31 Oct 2006 03:07:48 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V38DE#comments
]]>Mannyhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V38DETue, 31 Oct 2006 02:51:27 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6V39DJ#commentsGeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6V39DJTue, 31 Oct 2006 12:06:08 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V38DE#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6V38DEMon, 30 Oct 2006 11:59:17 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZS3B#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZS3BMon, 30 Oct 2006 11:50:52 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2#comments
all the best.
abi]]>abihttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2Mon, 30 Oct 2006 03:52:46 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZS3B#commentsStellar writing, Endymion.]]>Selenehttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZS3BMon, 30 Oct 2006 01:55:04 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZ6AB#comments
So, thanks for your questions! No, we did NOT drive the car. I believe that, were we to be here for a more extended period of time, a car would be useful... but really, there is so much energy to incorporate, so much to learn, without throwing ourselves into the fray that are the roadways here. I remember driving 9 hours from Porto Alegre to the beaches in Santa Catarina, Brazil, over two-lane roads most of the way. It was one of the most exhausting experiences I can recall... and here...

Well, I have to laugh. Last night we were walking through the overcrowded streets of the business district of Pondicherry, and Manny stopped and pointed ahead. "Look at that!". The regular glut of scooters and autorickshaws and cars and trucks and busses were all packing into the cross street ahead of us... and among the mix, four unattended cattle added some fertilizer to the mix, literally and figuratively. The whole pile of humans were beeping and edging in and aroudn each other, while the cattle mosied along, unfazed.

Besides, while this was a French protectorate, they do indeed drive on the left... more than enough: too much! ]]>Markhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZ6ABSat, 28 Oct 2006 12:21:31 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZ6AB#commentsDid you guys drive the car, or did you have a driver? How intrepid are you? Of course, having navigated both Brazil and Boston, my guess is you can handle anything. Do they drive on the left side of the road there, a la the Brits? Or did they give that up when the Brits left? Or do they just drive on whichever side is open at the moment?
Too many questions! Much love. ]]>georgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZ6ABFri, 27 Oct 2006 10:35:47 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZ5XB#commentsMariahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UZ5XBFri, 27 Oct 2006 08:38:04 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UXDCR#commentsSuch richness....thanks for the vicarious journey.
The oak trees are glimmering and the pumpkins snarling on the stoops in this neck of the woods!
Warm regards,
Joanne (Rowley)]]>joanne Rowleyhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UXDCRFri, 27 Oct 2006 08:41:44 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UXFLY#commentsgeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UXFLYThu, 26 Oct 2006 05:54:15 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2#commentsGeorgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2Thu, 26 Oct 2006 05:44:41 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UXDCR#comments
It is a delight to read your posts, you paint pictures with your words...

All the best,
Heidi]]>Heidihttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UXDCRThu, 26 Oct 2006 10:28:37 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2#commentsRose Russohttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2Wed, 25 Oct 2006 02:30:33 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2#commentswhat does it smell like, taste like, look like (photos are blurry when enlarged on the screen, but BEAUTIFUL!), feel like, sound like? Inspiration is ubiquitous in the words and photos . . .to eat less, to feel, pray, sing, dance and love more, to be grateful for good companions, who, yes, are hard to find. Shanti~Kim]]>Kimberlyhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/MTSZ-6UW6U2Wed, 25 Oct 2006 11:43:59 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UU8UJ#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UU8UJMon, 23 Oct 2006 05:22:22 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UHNEK#comments]]>Georgiahttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UHNEKSun, 22 Oct 2006 07:50:38 PM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UMJYA#commentsdrawing flowers in a notebook with tiny colored pencils while flying on a giant, fuel-sucking bird from the New England coast to the plains? No? Well then, how about this? I pulled some crispy, dried-out sunflowers from my garden today, and marveled at the miracle of the tiny,spidery webs of roots which nourished those huge plants all summer and into autumn . . .]]>Kimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UMJYATue, 17 Oct 2006 01:03:01 AM -0400http://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UHNEK#commentsKimhttp://www.thewaywest.com/blogs/WellLitPath.nsf/d6plinks/CENL-6UHNEKThu, 12 Oct 2006 11:43:47 PM -0400