Ideally prayer slips are filled out before you visit the temples. Even in Shangri-La details can slip to the last moment.
In the pink.
Today’s walk had much diversity…urban, rice fields, bamboo forest, flat and mountainous terrain, plus a ferry ride.
A cat loving family in Kōchi raised a cat. The family’s name appeared on the cat. Thereafter the family was blessed with prosperity. This Fortunate Cat is dedication to the faithfulness of the good cat that brought good fortune to the family.
The sedge hat is part of the pilgrim attire. Four phrases of enrichment are written in Sanskrit on the hat. Though many henros faithfully wear the sedge hat, some henros find new owners for the hat.
My Parisian friend believes the sedge hat should be worn so poisonous snakes dropping from trees would slide off. I haven’t found anyone to support this notion; however, signs do warn of poisonous snakes.
How to walk Shikoku 88 Buddhist Temples? With help from others. Is luck or providence that brings individuals most needed into our lives?
Anne R. is a Dane with a cherub face and glowing smile. She taught me how to find the roadside markings and savor cups of hot water. Well traveled, she finds a memento pebble from each place to added to her rock collection. I loved her brilliant idea of taking a day off without the backpack and walking along the coast. The temples will still be there.
Naomi N. is Japanese and had the most amazing calming effect on me. I met her days into walking and still needing training wheels. There were times anxiety clenched my chest. From the moment I met Naomi, I felt calm…Let go. All will sort itself out. Sheepishly I mentioned this to Naomi. In the most natural fashion she replied we were probably family in past lives.
Arnold S. is Canadian and glides alone each day with the serenity of Buddha and with the experience of walking 88 temples four times. He is a fountain of knowledge. Arnold carries an endless supple if tiny Canadian flag lapel pins to give as ossetia. He “freed” me of the notion I must only walk. There’s no virtue walking miles and miles alone busy highways when a train or bus can make the day more enjoyable. Kindly he mentions remarkable places or routes I might over look. I start my day solo walking and when least expected, there he is. How nice to have a familiar face and anchor.
There is a purity in Japanese design. From ink and brush writing, to topiary trees, to stark hotel room there is quiet elegance. Just the right amount of detail and absence.
Beneath a budding cherry tree sat dozens of extremely well behaved 5-years old students with their teachers close at hand. Arnold approached the teachers for permission to pass out ossetia, Canadian lapel pins. Each child held their cupped hands together patiently waiting for this unexpected treat. Little voices replied, “Thank you,” “Thank you very much,” and “Canada.” Perhaps this henro has fostered a future Ambassador to Canada.
A snafu happened with my accommodation reservation. When I arrived, all the rooms were occupied and the office closed. Several of the guests helped to locate accommodations at a nearby Airbnb. Quite a feat when you considered they spoke Japanese and I spoke English. Thanks to smartphone technology and google translation my dilemma was solved. A perfect recovery. The Airbnb hostess picked me up and sorted things out most professionally and personable. I could not have asked for a nicer evening.
Into every life should be decadent desserts. The Seaside Resort cantilevered over the ocean offering a magnificent coast view and equally magnificent desserts.
Linda Scandore 