Always lovely to hear from you Peter and I'm happy to share fresh stimulation! Yes, Laurel's article is wonderful and the synchronicity pretty amazing!
Absolutely! India was the foundation for much of what we enjoy today. Regarding Buddhism as a religion: personally I have never viewed it as such. For me Buddhism is more akin to a lifestyle. One that, if adopted widely, would transform human society.
No doubt about that transformation, Lloyd! And I agree, the origins of the word 'religion' itself suggest different interpretations, not all of them relevant to Buddhism.
Both Walter & Sylvia could come and live with me. Walter is a very spiritual being. Thank-you David for bringing to my attention the beautiful work that you do.
Thank you so much, David. I think this sounds an amazing book to read and share among those around me. And thank you for sharing your teachings and skill for the benefit of all others, no matter their form now or to come.
Fascinating! My guru in India, Osho, spoke extensively and lovingly on Buddha many times over many years. I remember he blamed the destruction of Nalanda on the jealousy of the Hindu priesthood who took their vengeance after Buddha's death and effectively drove Buddhism out of India. Buddha was opposed to many of the laws of Manu, particularly the caste system and untouchability. Buddha's personal following and charisma was such they could do nothing during his lifetime.
Thank you for sharing The Golden Road. I’m looking forward getting into this reference-rich book, tracing India’s and Buddhism’s early influences on western culture.
Love the photos from Twala! The dogs look happy and imagining Walter playing with his tennis ball really bring a smile!
Great seeing Sylvie grow into her spots!
Glad to hear the response to our tabby’s musings with Mary Magdalene and thank you explaining not personally replying to all of us. You do well placing your focus on capturing both his insights as well as keeping up with HHC! 🪷🙏
Thank you David. I was thinking the other day as I was watching the 19 monks walking with their dog, Aloka ,the 2300 mile “ Peace Walk “ often barefoot, from Texas to Washington DC through all kinds of weather inspiring Love and Compassion to so many 1000s of people who greet them along the road of all ages, religions, nationalities and backgrounds and how people cry at the beauty they feel is such a uniting force in a world that even amid the violence shows we are all parts of Buddha if we choose to see life that way…🙏❤️
So, there will definitely be a run on the book Thr Golden Road! I'm at the head of the line. Thanks so much for sharing about this gem. I have to go order now.
Thank you, David, for a truly superb post! I ordered William Dalrymple’s book immediately and can’t wait to get stuck into it. I agree with Lloyd; I don’t think of Buddhism as a religion either - I see it as a mind and life training experience. It has certainly transformed my life!
Thanks too for the Twala update, always so uplifting. Do you think Sarah would allow me to bring Walter to France?
I'm anxious to read the book you reviewed. I grew up in hard core conservative Christian church but after I left home and get out in the world I began to realize Christianity had all but destroyed Jesus's message. I began studying Eastern philosophy and religions and knew I found a home. I always wondered if Jesus had traveled on India and even Tibet to learn and practice their knowledge. As you pointed out he didn't have to travel there to find that knowledge. Too bad many "Christians" have missed his message. Thank you.
I am sure that many of us have had similar experiences as you, Cindy! When politics engages with spirituality sadly the result seems generally to be corruption of the teachings, irrespective of the spiritual tradition.
Thank you so much for this great recommendation, David. I was not familiar with his work, it’s spectacular! I’m loving the book and it’s certainly transforming my understanding of ancient history.
I just finished the section on Ajanta, beautifully woven. I could feel so much of that when I was there, it was wonderful to read.
Hi David, Somebody new to read for me. I so enjoyed Laurels article on the caves, I want to learn more too. I never even knew they existed.
Thanks for the summary and the update on Twala. Those pack of dogs, sure look happy.
Hi Peter,
Hope you are doing great.
I love your comments
Greetings from Mexico
Rossy Cortes
Always lovely to hear from you Peter and I'm happy to share fresh stimulation! Yes, Laurel's article is wonderful and the synchronicity pretty amazing!
Absolutely! India was the foundation for much of what we enjoy today. Regarding Buddhism as a religion: personally I have never viewed it as such. For me Buddhism is more akin to a lifestyle. One that, if adopted widely, would transform human society.
Thanks for another great post.
No doubt about that transformation, Lloyd! And I agree, the origins of the word 'religion' itself suggest different interpretations, not all of them relevant to Buddhism.
Both Walter & Sylvia could come and live with me. Walter is a very spiritual being. Thank-you David for bringing to my attention the beautiful work that you do.
Beautiful observation, thank you so much Kathleen!
Thank you so much, David. I think this sounds an amazing book to read and share among those around me. And thank you for sharing your teachings and skill for the benefit of all others, no matter their form now or to come.
You are so kind, thank you very much Erin!
Fascinating! My guru in India, Osho, spoke extensively and lovingly on Buddha many times over many years. I remember he blamed the destruction of Nalanda on the jealousy of the Hindu priesthood who took their vengeance after Buddha's death and effectively drove Buddhism out of India. Buddha was opposed to many of the laws of Manu, particularly the caste system and untouchability. Buddha's personal following and charisma was such they could do nothing during his lifetime.
Thanks so much for sharing that, Christopher. I know Buddha was much against caste as you say. I think you'll find Dalrymple's book intriguing.
Thank you for sharing The Golden Road. I’m looking forward getting into this reference-rich book, tracing India’s and Buddhism’s early influences on western culture.
Love the photos from Twala! The dogs look happy and imagining Walter playing with his tennis ball really bring a smile!
Great seeing Sylvie grow into her spots!
Glad to hear the response to our tabby’s musings with Mary Magdalene and thank you explaining not personally replying to all of us. You do well placing your focus on capturing both his insights as well as keeping up with HHC! 🪷🙏
I shall do my very best, thank you Linda!
Fascinating. Thanks David.
My pleasure, thank you Tom!
I see all the love and compassion. I breathe in.
Breathing out, I feel peace.
Thank you. All.
Lovely! Thanks for sharing, Leila!
Thank you David. I was thinking the other day as I was watching the 19 monks walking with their dog, Aloka ,the 2300 mile “ Peace Walk “ often barefoot, from Texas to Washington DC through all kinds of weather inspiring Love and Compassion to so many 1000s of people who greet them along the road of all ages, religions, nationalities and backgrounds and how people cry at the beauty they feel is such a uniting force in a world that even amid the violence shows we are all parts of Buddha if we choose to see life that way…🙏❤️
Yes, far more uniting than dividing. All arises from mind.
So, there will definitely be a run on the book Thr Golden Road! I'm at the head of the line. Thanks so much for sharing about this gem. I have to go order now.
I am sure you will find it engrossing, Penelope!
Thank you for the book recommendation, David, another book to look out for my collection!
Thanks, as ever, for the latest update from Twala too.
My pleasure, thanks Wendy!
Thank you, David, for a truly superb post! I ordered William Dalrymple’s book immediately and can’t wait to get stuck into it. I agree with Lloyd; I don’t think of Buddhism as a religion either - I see it as a mind and life training experience. It has certainly transformed my life!
Thanks too for the Twala update, always so uplifting. Do you think Sarah would allow me to bring Walter to France?
🙏🏻🪷🐱
LOL! I am sure many of us share that thought, about Walter, Jane! Enjoy the book!
Hi David,Another lovely story to make my day.
If it was at all possible,that little kitten would be mine.I hope it gets the kindest owner nearby.
Best wishes for the wonderful work you do.
Sue English
My heartfelt thanks, Susan!
I'm anxious to read the book you reviewed. I grew up in hard core conservative Christian church but after I left home and get out in the world I began to realize Christianity had all but destroyed Jesus's message. I began studying Eastern philosophy and religions and knew I found a home. I always wondered if Jesus had traveled on India and even Tibet to learn and practice their knowledge. As you pointed out he didn't have to travel there to find that knowledge. Too bad many "Christians" have missed his message. Thank you.
I am sure that many of us have had similar experiences as you, Cindy! When politics engages with spirituality sadly the result seems generally to be corruption of the teachings, irrespective of the spiritual tradition.
It's great...!
Thanks Zuzana!
Thank you so much for this great recommendation, David. I was not familiar with his work, it’s spectacular! I’m loving the book and it’s certainly transforming my understanding of ancient history.
I just finished the section on Ajanta, beautifully woven. I could feel so much of that when I was there, it was wonderful to read.
And thank YOU Laurel, for taking us to the Ajanta Caves in your beautiful post!
I so appreciate you sharing it!