Something about Budhgaya....

We came back to HK a week ago from Bodhgaya.  India is actually more friendlier than expected despite there were no real 'hot' water, most of the time it was just luke warm as the solar heating system did not work as well on cloudy days. But it was not the letdown of the trip. It was still the best and most unforgettable place I have ever visited.

We stayed at the Root Institute, a semi monastery that offers a great shelter for people who come in for retreats. We were really lucky to request a double room with self contained bathroom. It made it a lot easier to take care of a three year old and made sure we would not disturb others. 

At Root, they offer delicious Indian style international vegetarian food. It's very nutritionally balanced and with great taste. Some dishes might be too proactive or experimental for kids as they put a lot of spices in...but most of the days, my girl likes the food, especially the bread, yummy veggie soups and pasta.

My girl seem to naturally like the atmosphere of the little town and shown extreme excitement as I did when we landed at Gaya airport. I wonder why....she didn't know the last minute ups and downs I went through when father in law strongly stopping her from going the midnight before our early morning departure.

She picked the flowers freely, walked around the monastery freely, rang the bells freely as if she knew the place. Becoming friends with the goats and lamas there...She really surprised me on the first day when she picked a flower and tipped it in the mud while humming 'karma cheno'. I didn't teach her anything about that. And I do not hold such practice either....It's just amazing...

Perhaps she heard from other people. And love just flows naturally there...

Dinner to 1314

Just came to realization that we are saying goodbye to 13 and move on to 14 at the special place here at Bodhgaya, where Buddha attain enlightenment. If you speak Chinese, you would know how much it means to me. It is a life time commitment to Buddhism and my spiritual path. My girl has been treated like a princess here. The young monks and local Indians were all very curious about her. It is probably rare to see a Chinese girl in the town.

New year eve of 2014

I'm so excited today because the great challenge to India is tomorrow. Can you believe I'm bringing a three year old alone to India? With companion of a Indian speaking friend of course. Without her support and encouragement, I would probably never be there myself, not to mention with a child.

The process of getting India visa was full of obstacles. I visited shanghai visa office thrice and HK office twice. Finally We got it. During the whole procedure I was in rather peaceful mood , because I have faith in its plan. I'd be there if I am supposed to. I almost believe I'm just the messenger and my child is the one needs to be there to be blessed by HH 17th Karmapa.

I just simply believe the trip will run smoothly. There must be a reason for this fortunate child to travel so much. She will have broader vision of the world and so much love to give. Even though people always say it's a waste if money to bring kids to travel because they won't remember it when older. Deeply inside I believe, every trips or even any incidents to the child will stimulate a child's mind or brain somehow. Any trips is worth it and no one can buy the precious memories we created together.

In Buddha's blessing,
Seri