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| When I had met the local teacher, he mentioned that they
were working hard at preserving the traditions of his
people that were rapidly being eroded away by the
influence of Western culture. So many of the children,
when they are old enough, are heading for the bright
lights of Kathmandu, and, hopefully, an easier life. This
often, unfortunately, at the expense of their own values,
traditions and history. It does not only happen here but
in many societies where the kids think that different is
better, only to find out much later how much was lost when
not learned at a young age.
Dawa is so full of information and so eager to share that
by the time I have a chance to write it down much is
forgotten.
I saw some Stupas jutting into the clouds
(See Page 47).
They are a common sight both in the villages and high
above. They are the little sisters to the big mountain
brothers. Dawa tells me that these round, stone edifices
are used to hold the cremated remains of the villagers,
which are placed in bowls and then placed in the
center of the Stupa, often times built in a high
place. |
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| This is where the spirit of the person then resides. If
something bad happens in the village and it is attributed
to an evil spirit, the village goes through the birth
records of those that had died. When they locate the
problem spirit, the village goes to the Stupa and destroys
it. We are at 12,260 feet and I feel good.
I have been listening to Dawa lecturing someone from
Denmark about the dangers of traveling alone, and the
stress it puts on other people, especially if something
goes wrong. He
also pointed out that it does not provide jobs for the local
people that depend on carrying and guiding. |
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| I have been
watching for a couple of weeks how the Nepalese walk their
paths. It is a real art form. The terrain is seldom level
and as has been pointed out, often steep. To get any where
they must walk great distances. This is done as matter of
fact as we getting into our cars and driving to the store.
They accomplish this walk with knees bent, keeping their
torso steady and flowing smoothly. There is no bounce in
their stride, it’s a shuffling movement and reminds me of
water flowing down a steep rocky slope. Going up hill they
take long strides but still move with the same continuous
flowing motion. It is difficult to master for it takes
strong muscles around the knees.
Bill, my friend, the sewing needles and thimbles you
donated are a huge hit. I wished that I had brought many
more. They are so darnn practical that they can be given away
everywhere and are greatly appreciated by everyone. There
are only three sets left. |
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Page 51 |
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