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PART THREE we were in a temple

1

"Above us was a canopy, the stretching arms of cedar and spruce and Douglas fir. We knew to follow in silence, watching our steps, heads bowed.

We were in a temple."

 

 

What is a temple? What is a church?

 

Are these only designated places or is it wherever we find spititual connection and awe?

 

How does Vishesh sense the sacredness of this forest?

2

"All the ravens were once white until one raven passed through the smoke hole of the longhouse and turned black."

What is the role of sacred locations in this world? Are they eternal reminders of grace and wonder or, like the golden spruce and albino raven, fleeting glimpses of something greater?

 

What are the roles of the birds in this book: the nightingale, the seagulls and other birds above the cricket field, the raven and the birds in Vishesh's dream.?

3

"I remembered Patel's words, 'Surrender is not giving up, it is worship.' 'Show me how to step,' I said, 'so that it pleases you. Make me one with you and also this land. Be with me.'" 

 

 

How can surrender also be worship?

 

How is the Eastern understanding of surrender different from the way the word is used in the West?

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