A Reflection

Having now lived in this country for over three years I’m still beguiled at times by the contradictions that coexist here without ever causing the slightest amount of consternation in the native inhabitants (most likely because their civilization has been in motion for over 1,000 years). For example, the combination of Brahmanism, Buddhism, and animism is accepted by all without question, yet in my mind they are somewhat opposed in their basic principles and should be seen as exclusive of the other. I can recall when my own principles were rattled when I first arrived here. The basis for our ideals, principles, ethics, etc are “site specific.” What occurs when one finds themselves in an environment that no longer supports ideas or beliefs that have inhabited us for our entire lives? We become ruins in a sense—and within that is the promise of either further disintegration, or the possibility of using this new knowledge to adapt oneself. We can also retreat into a private world that attempts to mimic our home countries, never fully coming to terms with our locale. Even when we embrace this new reality we may find ourselves occasionally shocked at the difference, especially when one finds work, an apartment, friends. Each of these present a unique experience in themselves that is fraught with frustration, joy, well-being, and…yes, consternation. Surfaces, essences, depth, appearances…illusion…all take on new meanings.

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Chant


Where bread, not stones, makes the mountains
the way they are

Where bread, not stones, is the laughter heard
in the walls

Where bread, not stones, is favored by doves
and a grammarian of sound


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“I’m a reasonable man.” An oxymoron.

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Something dark, despondent, disenfranchised…yet danceable.

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Everything forgotten, except for the details.


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