Journey to Bhutan:Reflections on Buddhism and National Happiness
Angel Lillard & Bill Detmer
Nestled in the Himalayas between Tibet and India, the Kingdom of Bhutan is rarity in the modern world -- its environment and Buddhist culture have been relatively untouched by colonialism, wars, and ecologic degradation. Thriving monasteries and nunneries dot the mountainous landscape and the sounds of drums, gongs, and chanting waft across the valleys during morning and evening prayers.
This was the backdrop for a mediation-hiking journey we undertook last year. Traveling with a western meditation teacher, two Bhutanese guides, and 14 fellow yogis we experienced in temples, shrine rooms, and homes the magic of a culture grounded in Buddhism and organized around the principle of National Happiness.
After a guided meditation we will share stories, a few photographs, and reflections from this journey. Questions and discussion are encouraged.
Location: Jefferson Area Board for Aging (JABA) 674 Hillsdale Drive Charlottesville, VA Map