From Brahma to Buddha, Spring 2008

First of all, Dear AL,
We miss you and I am sorry that we have not been in contact these past few days.

This is a long awaited blog entry, for which I wrote the rough sketch in my journal about 2 weeks ago. Little did I know that I would not get a chance to write it until now…

Basically I wanted to write about the wonder that was Varanasi, even though it has been about a week and many amazing experiences since then. So, as per my notes, here it goes:

March 3, 2008

So, here I am fresh off the 12 hour train ride from Varanasi to Jaipur. For awhile it smelled really bad on that there train… I listened to music and enjoyed the rush of each passing train and the countryside sweeping by. Our group crowded into a car and bonded over late-night tales of conspiracy theories and esoteric silliness. Our random shifting subjects ranged from what will happen in 2012 (something I with my rational and easily freaked out mind do not like to contemplate) to crystal skulls and Indiana Jones. I loved our closeness and the way we jumped and held on to each other for support as each of us told our stories ranging from encounters with the supernatural to crazy dreams… (Lara has a scary one having to do with glowing eyes…)

Right now my mind is on India and on my first 10 day encounter with this land where Gods are reputed to still walk the Earth and miracles are every day occurrences: Varanasi.
Varanasi is the most holy city in India for followers of Hinduism (about 80% of India’s population) The holy river, Ganga-jee (known to westerners as Ganges) kisses the banks here, and it is said that to die in Varanasi means freedom for the cycle of rebirth and the attainment of enlightenment. We spent our time in this holy city, with a busy schedule of ISP’s, lectures, free time (part of which I spent reading an awesome book, Midnight’s Children, which I highly recommend), and home stays.

Blog entry to be continued...Tommorow!

Sorr guys, expect a few more from me very very soon.

Love, ellie