Friday 20 June 2014

Tuesday, June 17th, 2014

Osoyoos, British Columbia

Where Bhakti Is Strong


Fran was struggling up the summit with her bicycle which was weighed down with her goods, namely her tent, sleeping gear, clothes and food, which were equally balanced on either side of her conveyance.  Her one third of the way up the mountain and my two thirds of the way down at a road’s switchback, became the meeting point, a spot ideal to stop and take a few breaths.  We naturally had something to share about the glories of road travel, and as we did so, the strong scent of sage was ever present, enhancing the already pleasant sensation of overlooking the Okanagan Valley at the city of Osoyoos. 

Happy trails, friend! 

Down at the Osoyoos Beach, where Karuna was waiting for our ritual wraps in the morning, I also met Keith Lacey of the ‘Osoyoos Times’.  Both he, and then minutes later, Brian Highly, of Okanagan Times, raised great questions about the walk. Hey, here we also met the local pot dealer.  No, he didn’t even bother to try to sell us weed, we’re monks, right? 

The real high power time of the day was a trip up to Kelowna.  The stay over at Karuna Shakti and Aaron’s place, and then the program arranged at the Italian Cultural Centre.  The hall is not large, but it did accommodate 50 plus.  Just imagine a snug group of kirtan lovers who came to indulge in chants and dance after a brief “Tales From Trails”.  I witnessed this enthusiastic group.  There were no shy folks, no transcendental wall flowers.  All was good. Also, our bhakti books, music CD’s and meditation mala beads sold very well.  This is also a barometre that gauges the interest of devotion in a location. 

Residents of Kelowna and Osoyoos, we love you.

May the Source be with you!
 
25 KM

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