03 March 2012

Po Lin, Final thoughts on Hong Kong


I ended my stay in Hong Kong by visiting the Po Lin Monastery.  In the main temple, three statues are housed, one representing Buddha's past, present, and future.  Tourists and locals alike flock to this beautiful sanctuary to burn their incense, offer their oranges, and pray for tomorrow.

The following evening I would fly out, returning to my home in the Middle East.  At times I felt overwhelmed with Hong Kong.  For a little midwestern girl like me, it was big and foreign and I was all alone.  But, I think I learned a lot on this trip.  Perhaps I didn't learn so much about the science that was the purpose of my trip, but I learned about so much more.  Being on my own again.  Entering a new place that feels so different (now that Saudi no longer feels new).  Learning about the square within the circle.  Eating weird food.  Taking the metro.  Dealing with cold weather.

"Remember always that you are just a visitor here, a traveler passing through.  your stay is but short and the moment of your departure unknown." -Dhammavadaka

3 comments:

  1. I love seeing the little oranges on the trees. They are so cute, and look delicious!

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  2. I love how you wrapped up your blog with a powerful quote :) Isn't it a little frightening to do things alone but also quite empowering? Where are you off to now? :)

    Cathy Trails

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  3. Thanks for your comments! I totally agree with both of you! The oranges are awesome, and yes, flyin sola can be really overwhelming at times but it definitely helps you to see yourself in a new light. I am the maker of my own destiny!

    Right now I am back at home in Saudi Arabia, in the next month I am headed a little bit north, stay tuned!!

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