These days, even the most subtle agenda can be a bit trying. Before I continue on, I am not saying that having plans, intent and direction is a bad thing, it is a very good thing that can keep you focused on one’s intent and purpose. Sometimes though, it can obscure the flow of the natural spontaneous order being experienced here and now. My best moments on this trip have been when I simply rest in Being here, letting the environment and moment merge with my intent to enjoy myself, the people and my surroundings. Sometimes, the agendas of well-intentioned travelers can feel… Oppressive. (in the most benign and light hearted way) We all want to enjoy ourselves, no doubt. And oftentimes, we think that is the things we do alone that bring this enjoyment. For me, just the unfamiliar surrounding is enough to evoke excitement and enjoyment. Just watching, feeling and observing my emotions, thoughts is moving enough, and anything else is icing on the cake. I have noticed myself, become subtly annoyed with imposition of agenda or should on this trip. It feels unnatural, forced and contrived and the actions that arise out of those feelings feel the same. This experience is something I have noticed on this trip. So often, my most moving and heart-opening experience arises in the solitude of appreciation of myself and others independently of the environment. The attractions or customs of the city are conduits for this connection not the means unto themselves.

Distinction and discernment are two favorite words of mine. Distinction is a word that brings together the aspects of uniqueness and quality. When I desire to experience the culture or unique aspects of a people or individual this word distinction is always on my mind. The distinction of a culture or individual human being I revel in experiencing. For this experience to flow in the most enriching way, I feel must be open to their edges yet rooted in the truth own’s one value and worth. This is where discernment comes. I experience discernment to be judgement free from negativity rooted in the understanding of self and the curiosity of others. Travelling with other people can be trying because of stories(however valid at times rooted in fear and distrust of others. “You better be careful”is a story. “You can’t trust these people” is a story. Yes, it is wise to be mindful of all the conditions of your surroundings and environment, but oftentimes distrust can create a cautiousness based of a mental apparition not the reality at hand. Discernment and openness are higher are upgrades of cynicism and gullibility. Cynicism hardens the heart, reduces the intuitive faculties and devalues self and the environment in order to be comfortable with an experience. Gullibility is openness that looks on the outside for and sacrifices discernment of an environment and the trust of self for the approval of others. This trip has been most enjoyable when I rooted in my curiosity of others and trust of myself.