After the silence

Re-entering the world felt like what I imagine birth to be like.
It's all a little bit insensitive, and yet I now know that it seems
that way only because I perceive it to be, and only because
of labels that the mind gives EVERYTHING. Okay, enough
philosophy. But really, the second day of being back I stayed
in bed and had not an inkling to go outside to the world of rough stuff. By day 3 I'm back in the groove, and inspired to witness it all through a fresh perspective, slowly slowly, shanti shanti.

This photo of the prayer flags and stupa (temple) is on a mountain slope
where 20-30 monks are in lifetime retreat. They are all Tibetan
refugees who have walked for over 2 months through brutal weather
conditions without any food to cross the border in flight
from China's oppression. Many do not make it either from being shot point
blank by Chinese soldiers, or simply don't survive the treck. These monks
have committed their lives to mastering their own minds for the benefit of
all sentient beings (still trying to wrap my head around that one).
The reality of the situation in Tibet is unavoidable here.
This area is the by far the most ideal place in India for Tibetans to find
refuge and work, but there is still much struggle and hope that one day
they will be able to return. From talking to both Tibetans and foreigners
who are trying to do anything to alleviate the situation in Tibet, the efforts that are
made don't seem to make a dent on the unimaginable torture and murdering
that is occurring every single day just over the border. None the less,
with the help of His Holiness and others, there may be hope.
Please, for Tibet's sake, do not buy crap made in China!