If you have been following this blog – why? I haven’t posted anything! Reason being – spotty interweb and my complete desire to not miss a moment, a breath, or a smile.
“What happened in India?” “Did I find Spiritual Enlightenment?” “Am I now a Hindu?”
These are some of the fascinating questions my family and friends have asked me, along with – “You didn’t drink the water did you?” “Do cows really roam the streets?” “Are there dead bodies floating in the Ganges?” And my personal favorite – “Did you see people laying on beds of nails?”
Over the next few months, as I continue to unravel from this experience, embracing the beautiful transformation and creative inspiration, I will answer these questions, as from my eyes and my heart I will share with you, India.
A little out of order, but I will start with the easiest to answer.
“You didn’t drink the water did you?”
The only water I drank was either boiled or bottled.
“Do cows really roam the streets?”
Yes, cows really do roam the streets.
“Cow (Bull) on street with Terri & Bottled Water”
As it was explained to me, Indians believe the cow to be sacred because she gives milk. If you think about a cow, from their (Indian) perspective, it totally makes sense – a being that freely gives nourishment is sacred. If your mother gave you milk, isn’t she sacred? The Bulls are tolerated because they make more cows. It seemed to me that the entire community took care of all of the animals that roamed freely. It was rare to witness a sense of ownership, such as a goat on a rope or a dog on a leash.
The Gentlman and Scolar, Dr. Tripathi, told me that when his mother bakes bread she gives the first loaf to the cow, the last loaf goes to the dog, and the others are for family meals, priests, and neighbors.
“Dr. Tripathi & Mother”
India, from my experience, has the most authentic and genuine sense of community, as they embraced and welcomed me into their homes, villages, and temples. Everywhere I went, the people always gave me a gift of a blessing, tea, malas, precious stones, bracelets, and a loving embrace.
These are some of my happiest memories and it is with an open heart and pen (key board) that I share theses experiences with you.
Namaste –
Kathleen
Copyright © 2016 Kathleen M. Callan
All Rights Reserved
Thank you for writing about your experiences in India. I am looking forward to hearing more about your trip. When I read about Dr. Tripathi’s mother giving bread to the cow first reminded me of something another friend said. We should always bless our food and give thanks to the animal, plant or person who provided this sustenance. Thank you Kathleen for giving us the gift of looking at India through your eyes.