(Written June 14th, 2016)
Nepal is not what I expected, but in a good way. It is far more beautiful, cultured and green. The people are so soft and kind. You are always greeted with respect. The buildings are ancient, the temples weathered. The earthquake remnants are still visible, the collapsed buildings still hide around sharp corners, beams hold structures upright oh so gently. Brick walls resemble jenga pieces; holes with parts missing. It is strange to see a place so delapetated and know the reason is outside anyone’s control. The people here are rising out of survival mode, struggling to return to a normal life. This new normal includes collecting rainwater for washing, living with neighbors who are homeless, and sleeping as close to the ground floor as possible, in fear of the next quake. Cracks rise up the sides of otherwise perfect buildings and from the still-standing higher levels, you can see how low the skyline has become. The Nepalese are early risers, days starting around 4:30-5am. They make their way to the nearest Stupa and circle clockwise, softly touching Buddha’s third eye with a vibrant red powder made of a clay and ash mixture. From there, more Stupas and temples are visited. We accompany Laxman, who works at our guesthouse, on his morning ritual. Laxman is somewhat of a local celebrity in Bhaktapur, people wave and say “Namaste” as we walk through the streets. The Nepalese people have a great sense of pride relating to their nation, their education, their culture and their religions. Sharing it all with them will be a great gift.
