Ladakhi traverse
Jullay to all!!
Climbers often refer to "traversing" a mountain face. I am not a climber by any means, but as we have traveled back and forth across Ladakh, it feels like we are "traversing" this terrain. The mountains are tall and jagged and they provide epic views. Mentally, it has created a wonderful sense of adventure for me and it seems like every turn provides some new aspect of the land and culture in Ladakh.
Our group has done a lot over the past couple of weeks and it seems like with every activity we are growing ever closer. Currently, we are staying at SECMOL, an educational non-profit helping Ladakhi students prepare for higher education and/or life in general. The students are wonderful. They welcomed us with open hearts and minds. It seemed as if we were old family re-uniting once again. This is amazing, when you think about it, as our group and the local students are about as far away, geographically, as possible on the earth. This time has reminded me of the power of open-mindedness. We have engaged in chores around the grounds, English language classes, song and dance sessions and so much more. It will be difficult to leave this environment, as the connections we are developing are quickly deepening.
Soon, we will depart on trek and into a new aspect of the program. It will surely provide challenges for us that we haven't experienced yet. I am sure, however, that our group is ready for the challenges and will undoubtedly connect even deeper with each other.
That is all for now.
Be well and we look forward to hearing from all of you,
Justin
Leh, Ladakh October 2nd, 2008