THE WORLD IS QUIET?

Thursday, January 9th, 2025

Paramaribo, Suriname

Thoughts of the wildfire in Los Angeles are reeling in my mind as I walk the dark early hours.  My mantras are prayers of concern and help for the many victims.  It is a very troubled world.

Meanwhile, the world is quiet here on Kwatta Street going westbound.  The occasional car comes by.  There is no honking or any agitation from motorists who are viewing the four of us in dhotis on a narrow two-lane in single file.  Dogs barking is occasional.  Once the sun hints at rising, we see Indian cows.

MAKING FRIENDS ALONG THE WAY.

 Fifty percent of the population in Suriname are Hindu.  We met Johnny Chakropaul whose ancestry is from India, and who admits to being a Christian.  He came pedalling on his bike. “Is everything alright?” he asked.  And indeed, it was.  Our troupe of four are actual troopers.  We are totally content to chant and walk.

At midday, I met Suriname’s famous folksinger, Kries Ram Khelawan.  He was happy to receive my last copy of The Saffron Path. 

“This is not a gift,” he said appreciatively, “it is prasad.”

For a break in the day, a second leg of today’s walk took us to the edge of the world, seemingly.  At the oceanside, north shore, a pious Hindu man had erected an amazing fantasy land of incredible Vedic deities.  It certainly attracts visitors.

 I managed to squeeze in time for securing my passport and entry visa.  Also, my usual Thursday Gita Chat by Zoom was conducted with a combined North American audience and Suriname group.  The theme was “Getting Unlost” based on verse 18.58 from the Gita. 

All walking is primarily done when the sun is gone. 

CAN YOU SPOT THE MONKEY IN THE TREE?

MAY THE SOURCE BE WITH YOU!

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