“not monks with rice bowls

but the universe reciting itself whole”

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Please visit again as hundreds of  “miniatures” will be posted in this and other categories.

(c)  2009   Unknownheartist@gmail.com

Yesterday was a wonderful day (30/11/2009) as the the Sanpada , New Mumbai Gayatri Consciousness Center was launched publicly with Vedic Hymns for peace and happiness to all humanity. Sacred Sandalwood fragrance and vegetarian food for all guests made the atmosphere purer.

In the middle of it , we had our meeting ( first Image ) for discussing the planning for the 23rd january event for Youth Group.

The land acquired with have a huge hall , gardens , basement and living facilities and again in the spirit of humanity , will serve all people iirespective of caste , religion or color.

The last installment of my napkin art nonsense.   Towers, pagodas, temples, birds…

Sunday 29th November 2009

Sunday Sunday!!!

I had a long lie in AND it’s shit weather outside! Happy.
Dragged myself to the gym, as of tomorrow I Start running again, then swim, off to work and weights at night with muff.
News a goal, need something to push me!

But as for today I am treating someone to a mcdonalds and a day of watching family guy!

Ohh a bit of hail just fell on me!
BRING ON THE SNOW!!!!

I am all for people from other country’s working in the uk (well sort of) but when the person behind the counter at McDonalds can’t under stand any English and manages to mess up my order THREE TIMES then the manage f*ucks it upfor a FOURTH TIME!! Mcdonalds need to tighten up their recruitment system! Just my thoughts.

Got our McD’s and headed back fo the flat. te that then we headed out to Oldmeldrum. Had a relaxing afternoon just watching Family Guy then xfactor.

Was winding my mum up, she left her Facebook on so as her son I thought I will type a few thoughts

“I’m a bumble Bee”

21:30 and we are heading back to Aberdeen. I plan to finish House then get an early night with my book. I pLan to be up at 7am.

I have been thinking lot about traveling. I really would love to spend a year traveling Rural China. Would love to learn the language. Need to start making goals.

Start Modern-Image fulltime again next week. Can not wait to put my all in to it again. Plan on doing a lot more of my own photography so expect to see daily photograhs soon.

With traveling Being in my head I have today uploaded a photograph I took at Tiger Temple in Thailand. This monk owns a tiger sanctuary. An amazing man and true heart for helping wildlife.

http://www.tigertemple.org/Eng/index.php

 MEMOIRS

(Abridged)                                                                                         

By K.K.Subramanian

Waterfriend remembers his childhood

           Kunnathur Mana

My mother was born in a very illustrious family Kunnathur Padinjaredath.You can see the ancestral house near the Peruvanam temple south gopuram (gate)

I have vague memories of sitting upstairs; looking at the road. I must be four at that time.

The family came there in search of livelihood and became the tantry (main priest-they still are) of the temple. I can imagine mother (kali was her name-a goddess) walking towards the temple, holding the hands of the maid servant, almost naked, with only a plantain leaf strip to cover nakedness, not knowing what fate awaited her…tears swell in my eyes, even as I write these lines

She was married off at the tender age of thirteen or so to Subrahmanian Nambudiripad, aged forty plus, already having two wives, one living and the next one and her son still fresh in memory, and a daughter of mother’s age whom her brother married the same day, probably. Mother was dark, uncouth and short; my step sister was fair, lean and very handsome whom mother hated heartily!

I do not remember any one caring for her,  except her younger sister and some cousins. Uncle (eldest) never talked to her or even to her children (in all six, two died early). She had a sharp tongue and was outspoken but had a heart of gold. She was very lazy and father was the laziest!

I digressed…

Around 150 years ago, mother’s ancestor was married to the sister of the king of erstwhile Cochin State who was known as Shaktan Thampuran. He bestowed on the Kunnathur family tax free land. The family became rich.

Maternal grandfather was very intelligent, so too was my uncle. At that time a rich local Nambudiri of Chittoor mana established a school, where we all studied, and uncle was the first student, duly initiated before a lighted lamp etc. Of course the student was without a shirt! I had a few classmates, topless, in primary school. Grandmother was wise, cultured and well versed in puranas (old legends of Hindu religion).When she got angry and shouted like a lioness, her husband shivered like a mouse! She did like my mother, always told me to look after her well but did nothing when she needed assistance. In fact no one accompanied her when she left the house built by father, and we were travelling in a country boat, through the swollen river. Being a fool, I enjoyed the trip!…

Earliest memories centre around a small village Thalore, near Trichur. I was about four. Mother had given birth to a dead baby and so she continued to feed me. I just came in from the spacious orchard where I was playing, lay down in my mother’s lap and started sucking her big breast. (In those days our women folk did not wear blouse.) “Ma, who put sugar in your milk?” -I asked. She just pushed me off and that was the end breast feeding !

I had a playmate Bhagi about eight years or so . She was attached to our maid servant Madhavi. I always thought she was her daughter.

 One day the girl was mopping the kitchen floor. I said something .She didn’t listen and I gave a blow on her back with an iron ladle. The poor girl cried out aloud inviting the attention of mother and paternal grand mother I felt guilty and wretched. Perhaps that was the only time I used violence against any living creature…..

With just a piece of cloth tied like lady’s bikini, I used to accompany Madhavi to the grocery shop owned by a Tamil Brahmin .He would give a piece of jaggery. We never got chocolates in those days.

Father and mother slept in the upstairs bed room. I slept with them. Mother used to tell stories. Elder brother used to sleep with grandmother. He was her favourite. Paternal uncle Krishnaphan was an occasional visitor. We loved him, as he was a good storyteller. About Lilliputs we heard from him. He was dark and fat unlike another p. uncle Vasudevaphan who was slim and fair, the first person to go to school from K.K. family. He was teacher and a close friend of E.M.S. Namboodiripad.

One day an old lady came, covered up to the neck in pure white dhoti (in north India only a widow will dress in white) Do you know her? –they asked. When I blinked, they all laughed . I felt ashamed. It was mother’s ma. As a girl, she was born and brought up in the same house where we were staying temporarily-the great Veembur Kadalayil Mana (which was lying vacant at the time. Mahatma Gandhi visited the house in 1929). Father who was a good architect and astrologer was making our house near the river, about four miles away. One day brother and I accompanied him to see the construction work. My legs were paining like hell. I earned the reputation of having walked four miles when four years old.    

 At that time , another paternal uncle, Parameswaran by name, took me with him to fort Tripunithura where royal family members lived. By custom, only a nambudiri may marry a princess. And, in a nambudiri family only the eldest can marry; others may have legitimate relationship with women of other upper castes, the latter not entitled for a share of nambudiri property. They are not allowed to share meals with us.(My grandfather’s younger brother’s daughter was my schoolmate .I never knew about the blood relationship, though I somehow liked her. Of course I was too shy to talk to her! )

That is how uncle married a real princess and lived in Palace no.11. I was too small to notice the clean bed, the sumptuous food (at home we had it only on birthdays or during Onam) The great festival was going on at the Poornathrayeesha (Krishna) temple and there were any number of elephants (I wanted to become a mahout-I am never tired of watching these majestic animals)

An elephant was being fed. Uncle asked me-do you want to mount it . I shook my head. The mahout lifted me and handed over to his colleague sitting on the elephant. He placed me on its neck. I felt uncomfortable, its hair pricking my naked bottom and I being lifted up and down by the motion of its head while eating; still I enjoyed it .

One day we were taken to Akavoormana near river Periyar. We enjoyed playing in the shallow swift flowing water. I lay down in the water and was carried away some distance. Flapping my arms I managed to remain floating. Thus I learnt the rudiments of swimming. I do not know how to swim really. Like cattle only my head remains above water.

There were two young elephants there. As a baby Ramankutty used to roam about in the house and snatch things from the kitchen. Even now I like to have a baby elephant ….

Vasudevan uncle (the youngest among five brothers, father being the eldest) was working as teacher in Namboori Vidyalaya at Trichur. I would look with admiration  the fat books in his shelf. One day when I grow up I shall read them!

Savithri was born. I refused to see the baby. I wanted a brother. This dislike of girls remained for a long time to come.

When Vas uncle brought a wife I was too shy to meet her. Afterwards the words “cheriamme “automatically escaped from my mouth and all exclaimed “today it will rain” 

   Recently, during morning walk I reached the church and, turning right, easily located the arch, proclaiming entry towards the Shiv temple. I went through it and turned right. A little further, I had hardly turned left when I could easily spot the old gate as it was in 1937! It was something like a flashback in TV screen! The front yard was very small. (in my mind it was very big.)The main building was intact, though concretised. I saw mother’s bedroom upstairs where I slept. Through the left side I traced a few steps and saw the workplace where women husked rice .It was locked. I could easily see the rope swing and Bhagi and I playing there. The reddish brown cow must be somewhere nearby. Bhagi showed me how to pick silky smooth, egg shaped thing (she called it pattunni) from the cow’s skin. She would place it on a stone and crush it with another stone spilling blood. Ma must be in the kitchen. The great surprise was when I turned to the east courtyard and looked to the flight of steps leading to the orchard. I was expecting at least thirty steps. I could count hardly four! To the child everything appears on a mega screen. To the grown up, it is all on TV screen. The surroundings had been cut into plots and sold. There are flats now. But the main structure is unoccupied till now.

Originally, it belonged to Moothedath Kadalayil which was merged with Veembur Kadalayil. On shifting to Pazhai, the house was sold to Akavoor Mana, my paternal grand mother’s maiden house (illam). We were just living there. The Akavoor namboodiri even suggested,” sister, why don’t you live here, why build a new house?” But father wanted to be near our village. 

This time of the year we all need to step through the airport with some nice bags attached to us. This season a few lucky individuals will get their paws on the Temple Bags limited edition holiday collection. The pieces will be available to ship on December 11 at Temple Bags online store.

Après un an passé au Japon, nous avons enfin profité d’un long week-end pour visiter l’ancienne capitale nippone. Sixième ville du Japon avec 1,5 millions d’habitants, Kyoto possède un patrimoine culturel et artistique sans équivalent dans les autres villes de l’Archipel. Cité des bonzes, des temples, des jardins, des geishas, des arts et de la gastronomie, Kyoto est tout simplement superbe.

Nous commençons notre visite par Le Kinkaku-ji alias le Pavillon d’Or. Construit en 1397 pour le shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, un jeune moine suicidaire n’a rien trouvé de mieux que d’y mettre le feu en 1950 ! Ce pavillon a donc été rebâtit à l’identique et entièrement recouvert de feuilles d’or. Surmonté d’un phénix, ce temple est absolument splendide.

La découverte de la ville se poursuit avec l’exploration du Ryoan-ji (temple du repos du dragon). Fondé en 1450 ce temple est réputé pour son jardin sec, un rectangle de graviers de 10 mètres de large et de 25 mètres de long, fermé sur 3 côtés par un mur en terre où sont disposées 15 pierres. Dans ce jardin, le gravier peigné quotidiennement par les moines représente les remous des rivières et les vagues des océans, les pierres quant à elles symbolisent les continents et les îles du monde. A première vue rien d’extraordinaire et pourtant… à force de contempler ce jardin la “zen attitude” s’empare de vous, incroyable !

C’est donc l’esprit léger que nous nous dirigeons vers le plus vieux temple de Kyoto, le Koryu-ji construit en 603 en l’honneur du prince Shotoku. La pièce principale de ce lieu est une statue du Miroku Bosatsu (le Bouddha du futur) datant du 7ème siècle. Son sourire rempli de douceur et de mystère en font l’un des trésors nationaux les plus précieux du pays.

Non loin de là se dresse depuis 1603 le château de Nijo. A l’abri derrière la forteresse se succèdent divers bâtiments, cours et jardins. Au coeur de cet ensemble, le palais Ninomaru avec ses 33 pièces en enfilade est fabuleux. Fidèlement à l’architecture traditionnelle japonaise, les portes coulissent et sont quadrillées de bois et de papier de riz, les cloisons sont peintes (tigres, cerisiers en fleurs, faucons, paons, bambous et autres font de splendides décorations) et le sol des pièces est recouvert de tatamis. Oui mais dans cette demeure, le plancher des couloirs extérieurs émet des sons pareils aux chants des rossignols afin de trahir la présence d’intrus. Ce système est tellement efficace que rien que de faire le tour de la maison (3300 m2 quand même) on est saoulé par ces grincements ! Rien de tel qu’une petite promenade dans les jardins pour retrouver sa sérénité.

Notre journée de visite s’achève avec le To-ji. Alors que le premier pavillon, le Kondo, abrite la triade du Yakushi Nyorai (Bouddha médecin encadré par ses serviteurs), le Kodo lui renferme 21 statues de bois formant un mandala ésotérique où trône en son centre le Bouddha cosmique, Dainichi Nyorai. Malgré ces trésors, c’est à sa pagode à cinq étages que le temple doit sa réputation. Ici se dresse en effet la pagode la plus haute du Japon (57 mètres).

16h30, la nuit commence à tomber, les temples ferment leurs portes, il est temps pour nous de retourner à notre pension pour nous préparer à arpenter le célèbre quartier de Gion. Ce lieu illustre de plaisirs et de spectacles a gardé de sa superbe en échappant aux appels des promoteurs immobiliers et autres amoureux du progrès. Flâner le long des rues dallées, au fil d’un canal où l’on aperçoit derrière les saules d’antiques ochaya (maisons de thé où officient les geishas) et de fabuleuses machiya (maisons de bois) est très romantique… En-dehors de ce petit périmètre, le quartier de Gion ressemble davantage à celui de Tokyo (le Kabukicho), nettement plus clinquant et obscène.

A suivre …

My notes (in between tweets) from the 179th Semi-Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Saturday Morning Session

President Henry B. Eyring conducted the Saturday morning session, with President Thomas S. Monson providing general commentary followed by talks from Elder Scott, Sister Matsumori, Elder Clayton, Brother Osguthorpe, Elder Bednar, and President Uchtdorf.  Here are the key points made by each speaker (with direct quotes noted as such):

President Thomas S. Monson:

• 83% of members live within 200 miles of a temple
• There are 130 operating temples
• 16 have been announced or are under construction
• 5 new temples announced
  
  • Brigham City, Utah
  • Concepción, Chile
  • Fortaleza, Brazil
  • Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
  • Sapporo, Japan

Mormon Tabernacle Choir sang “Choose the Right”

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Twelve:

• Inspiration to know what to do | being guided by the spirit
• Power, to be able to do it
• Sometimes truth is revealed when you are not actively seeking it
• Pornography is one of the most damning influences on earth, and is overpoweringly addictive
• Commit to overcome it now
• If you pray with all your heart, you can learn to be consistent with the guidance of the Holy Spirit
• Parable: a humble priesthood leader in Mexico teaching a lesson inspired Elder Scott, while a well-educated Sunday School teacher in the States, using obscure examples, did not edify or inspire because it came from a desire to impress (pride).

Sister Vicki F. Matsumori, Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency:

• Being touched by the Spirit is like being wrapped in a blanket.
• Help others understand
• The Spirit will not dwell in unholy temples
• We should find ways to feel the Spirit every day and weekly at Church
• “Be still and know that I am God”

Elder L. Whitney Clayton of the Presidency of the Seventy:

• Generally burdens come from 3 sources
  1. Natural product of the conditions of the world
  2. Imposed on us by the misconduct of others
  3. Imposed on us by our own mistakes and shortcomings
• Burdens provide opportunities to practice virtues — blessings in disguise
• “People struggle everyday under burdens that tax their souls.”

The choir sang “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet”

Russell T. Osguthorpe, General President of the Sunday School:

• “We are all teaching future leaders of the Church.”
• A good teacher can help save lives
• Teaching involves sharing the key doctrine, an invitation to action, and then the promised blessings
• “Learning and teaching are not optional activities in the Kingdom of God.”
• Teachers can inspire their students to change, to do better, to set sights higher

Elder David A. Bednar of the Twelve:

• “More diligent and concerned at home”
• Express love and show it. When was the last time you told your spouse, your child, your parents you love them?
• Testimonies that express love might be appropriate, but the public statement shouldn’t be the only time they hear it
• Feeling the constancy of love is a rich blessing
• Bear testimony and live it. When was the last time you bore your testimony to your spouse, your children, or your parents
• We need to bear it, we need to mean it, and most importantly, we need to live it
• Be consistent. Results don’t come each time
• The consistency of our intent and work is the great lesson
• A single paint brush stroke is not critical, but all of the strokes together create a beautiful painting

The choir sang “My Heavenly Father Loves Me”

The choir sang “Oh, May My Soul Commune with Thee”

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, on showing love as a disciple of Christ and the unconditional love of God for us:

• Of all the things we are known for, are there things we should seek to be known for?
• How do we become true disciples of Jesus Christ? Love God. If ye love me, keep my commandments.  Love should be the center of our life in:
  1. family
  2. callings
  3. livelihood
• “Love should be our walk and our talk.”
• Keep trying. Try to believe, learn of God, study the scriptures, follow the prophets, listen to the Father, do the things He asks of us
  • How can we hear the Father’s voice?
  • Why is love the great commandment?

The choir sang “Come, Come, Ye Saints”

Saturday Afternoon Session

President Eyring conducted the Saturday afternoon session, featuring talks by Elder Oaks, Elder Hales, Elder Zeballos, Elder Callister, Elder Watson, Elder Anderson, and President Packer. Direct quotations (based on my notes) are given in quotes; phrases without quotes are my summary of the remarks given.

The choir sang “Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise”.

The choir sang “Know This, That Every Soul Is Free”

Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Twelve, on God’s love and law:

• God’s love and God’s commandments
• The love of God does not supersede his commandments.  His commandments do not diminish the love of God
• Despite mortal confusion over the relationship between love and law, love does not supercede or render inapplicable law or God’s commandments. Mercy cannot rob justice.
• Counsels a balanced response — every parent knows you can love a child and be angry and disappointed
• The love of God is so universal, even those who are rebellious benefit
• Where do parents draw the line with children that are not following the commandments? Don’t go to extremes.
• Real love does not support self-destructive behavior

Elder Robert D. Hales of the Twelve, against secularism and atheism:

• We live in a time where secularism is deepening.  “Atheism … is spreading across the world.”
• We declare We believe in God the Eternal Father, and in his son Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost
• Why is belief in God so important?“Without God, … our mortal experiences would have no purpose.”
• Cultivate a diligent desire to know God lives. He does.

Elder Jorge F. Zeballos of the Seventy, on the Atonement:

• The command to become perfect may seem impossible, but it encourages us to achieve the best of ourselves
• “God will not require more than the best that we can give.”
• Let us with enthusiasm do all that is within our reach
• It is possible to achieve the impossible. We can receive eternal life. We can be happy now.

The choir sang “Come, Ye Children of the Lord”

Elder Tad R. Callister of the Seventy, on the Restoration:

• Joseph was the Lord’s anointed servant. He restored knowledge of four fundamental truths not recognized by contemporary Christianity:
  1. God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ are two separate, distinct beings
  2. The Father and Son have glorified bodies of flesh and bones
  3. God still speaks to man today; the heavens are not closed
     Does God love us as much today as before?
     Does God have the same power today as then?
     Do we need him as much today as then?
  4. The full and complete Church of Jesus Christ was not on the earth
• Were there not angels before? Mary, Joseph, Peter, James, John, Cornelius, Paul, Stephen all saw angels
• Some people get sidetracked and lose their faith over minor issues: “There will always be some intellectual crisis looming on the horizon.” At some point, one must trust in God.

Elder Kent D. Watson of the Seventy, on temperance:

• Temperance = avoiding anger and pride.
• Peace of mind and security and happiness does not come from buying things we can’t afford. It comes through self-control and faith in Jesus Christ.
• Happiness comes from being diligent in keeping covenants
• Like tempered glass or tempered steel, a tempered soul is one that has gained increased spiritual strength.

Elder Neil L. Anderson of the Twelve, on repentance:

• Testifies of the Savior’s overpowering love for a repentant soul.  Spiritual arms of mercy, safety, love
• We rejoice in repenting and the joy of forgiveness
• Apart from the rare unforgiveable sin against the Holy Ghost, “there is no sin that cannot be forgiven.
• “Will ye not now return unto me… that I may heal you?”
• Repentance is more of a journey than an event
• “You can’t feel what I have felt”  One who does understand. He does. He has felt your pain.
• I promise you, relief will come
• Do not procrastinate the day of your repentance

President Boyd K. Packer of the Twelve, on hearing the guidance of the Spirit:

• “We are given our agency; we must use it wisely.”
• We must use our agency wisely
• Pure intelligence can be spoken into the mind  — the Spirit can protect you
• Keep your mind clean and free from the clutter of the world
• “One of the adversary’s sharpest tools is convincing us that we are no longer worthy to pray.” No matter who you are and what you may have done, you can always pray
• Learn to pray. Pray often. Pray in your mind, in your heart. Pray on your knees.
• Prayer is your personal key to heaven and the lock is on your side of the veil.
• “Thy will be done”

The choir sang “I Know That My Redeemer Lives”.

Buy Cheap Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven

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They were young, brilliant, and bold. They set out to conquer the world. But the world had other plans for them.


Bestselling author Susan Jane Gilman’s new memoir is a hilarious and harrowing journey, a modern heart of darkness filled with Communist operatives, backpackers, and pancakes.


In 1986, fresh out of college, Gilman and her friend Claire yearned to do something daring and original that did not involve getting a job. Inspired by a place mat at the International House of Pancakes, they decided to embark on an ambitious trip around the globe, starting in the People’s Republic of China. At that point, China had been open to independent travelers for roughly ten minutes.


Armed only with the collected works of Nietzsche, an astrological love guide, and an arsenal of bravado, the two friends plunged into the dusty streets of Shanghai. Unsurprisingly, they quickly found themselves in over their heads. As they ventured off the map deep into Chinese territory, they were stripped of everything familiar and forced to confront their limitations amid culture shock and government surveillance. What began as a journey full of humor, eroticism, and enlightenment grew increasingly sinister-becoming a real-life international thriller that transformed them forever.


Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven is a flat-out page-turner, an astonishing true story of hubris and redemption told with Gilman’s trademark compassion, lyricism, and wit……..
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 “A Sterling Example of Travel Writing That is One of the Year’s Best Books” 2009-11-28
By John Kwok (New York, NY USA)
In the spring of 1986, two Brown University seniors met at their local International House of Pancakes and conceived of the impossible; an around the world trek which would begin in the remote, relatively unknown – to most Westerners then – People’s Republic of China. In her latest, and finest, book to date, “Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven”, journalist Susan J. Gilman recounts the epic trek that she and her best friend from Brown undertook through China in the fall of 1986, venturing deep within the country, to isolated towns and hamlets in a rural countryside that had never seen Westerners before. Without a doubt, hers is one of the most memorable examples of travel writing that I have ever read, and one that should be regarded as a contemporary literary classic.

“Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven” is no mere travelogue written with the literary flair one might expect from a splendid writer like Ms. Gilman. It is substantially more; a mesmerizing account of her final ascent into adulthood as she confronts and her friend’s unexpectedly rapid decline into depression and insanity. And therefore, as such, it is quite simply as life affirming as the great memoir written by her high school English teacher, Frank McCourt’s “Angela’s Ashes”. While I will not compare and contrast the literary merits of both books (Mine would not be a fair assessment since I count Ms. Gilman as a friend and Frank McCourt as my Irish-American “father” who instilled in me a strong love and appreciation for great literature.), I believe that it is as memorable an example of memoir writing at its best as, of course, “Angela’s Ashes” most certainly is; an example that may leave its readers with many of the same emotions felt by those who have read McCourt’s legendary literary debut.

 “I knew women like this” 2009-11-04
By Sherry (New York, NY)
I graduated from Barnard in 1981 and I knew women like this. A little too much money and a bit to little experience it seemed easier for the trust fund set to get themselves into serious trouble, than the rest of us. Still, there was something to envy in the idea that adventure is a birthright. This book is hard to read in parts, but the beginning is all possibility. It is a look into another life, both for the women involved and into another culture and finally how they clash.

 “China didn’t really deserve this” 2009-10-09
By Harry Eagar (Maui)
There have been other books about traveling with a mental case — Hemingway’s “A Moveable Feast” is perhaps the most famous — but few have been so relentlessly grim as “Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven.”

The title, to get that out of the way, is catchy but has almost nothing to do with the book, which is the tale of two fresh Brown graduates who decide in 1986 to backpack around the world, starting with China, then only recently open to such gallivanting. I confess, I picked up the book because I wondered just how stupid two Ivy League girls could be. Plenty, as expected, but there are more layers in this book than I expected.

One in particular raises “Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven” out of the common ruck of travelogues. Not too often in travel literature (aside from the explicitly political) does the author face and confess to a moral dilemma. It happens here, and it turns the book into an experience worth contemplating, which otherwise it would not be.

If it hadn’t been for that and for the crisis of madness that overtook Gilman’s travel companion, called Claire, this would have been a tedious tale.

The two girls had vague notions of experiencing the rest of the world, but since they didn’t speak Chinese, their experience of China was trivial. Mostly they interacted with other backpackers, portrayed as a shallow and giddy bunch of layabouts that you wouldn’t bother to know back home.

This knocking about and being continually repulsed by the living standards of the Chinese could, and does, get old pretty quick, and combined with occasional passages of too-purple prose made reading “Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven” a chore for the first 150 pages. The confession that “each day . . . we grew more acutely aware of just how coddled we’d been all our lives and just how foolish we were” was no surprise. I could have guessed as much before opening the covers.

Things improve — that is, they go downhill catastrophically for the participants — thereafter.

With the perspective of nearly 25 years, Gilman has some thoughtful things to say about her experience and about the Chinese, to the extent she learned much about them. “Everything I’d known up to that point about China was basically, a gross cultural stereotype.” By the end of the book, she comes away with a different stereotype, equally at odds with reality, or so it appears.

The Chinese put up with a lot. Whenever I walk the aisles of a garden store and see the ranks of ceramic or fiberglass garden gnomes from China, I wonder what the former peasants who have migrated to the dark, satanic mills of the Pearl River Valley or Shanghai imagine to be the cultural characteristics of people who need so many garden gnomes. The few Chinese who encountered Susan and Claire couldn’t have been much enlightened in that respect.

 “No Bowl of Flawless Delight Paradise Dog Soup” 2009-10-06
By Marcy Casterline O’Rourke (Northern NJ)
“Undress me in the Temple of Heaven”, a travel memoir about two Brown grads in the People’s Republic of China in the eighties, seems an obvious attempt to cash in on the success of travel memoir “Eat, Pray, Love”, by Elizabeth Gilbert. Gilbert was such an original fruitcake that her first person, utterly self-absorbed memoir was a charming wander across the map. Unfortunately, Gilman’s book is not the sexy, fun romp that the title seems to promise. Yes, she finally gets undressed, but the Temple of Heaven ain’t what it used to be. This is a dated, sarcastic tale of an ill-advised trip to China with the usual self congratulatory, Liberal stereotypes: big boobed, ethnic, free love, New York liberal, versus the uptight, rich, thin, blond Republican. Guess who wins. The so called irreverence is that Gilman departs far enough from the party line to admit that Communist China is no bowl of Flawless Delight Paradise Dog soup. I found this book a strange, headache inducing journey, where the girls are always in excruciatingly unpleasant circumstances but manage to survive–no mean feat in the vicious, crude, Orwellian communist bureaucracy of the People’s Republic. Gilman has a few honest moments about youth, but not enough and not nearly honest enough.

 “Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven” 2009-09-25
By M. L. Hughes (Connecticut)

I enjoyed Undress Me in The Temple of heaven — I found it was a fascinating non-fiction book about China both in 1985 and recently!!

I have bought 3 copies and given two away — so far everyone is enoying it immensely!!

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Buy Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven Now

Penang – an island resort – is perhaps the most favorite tourist destination in Malaysia that is much famed for its rich culture and history, natural wonders, and excellent cuisine. Situated in the straits of Malacca on the Peninsular Malaysia’s north-west coast, Penang is the smallest state in the country, after the state of Perlis.

Penang is made up of the island of Penang, occupying an area of about 290 square kilometers, and a tapered strip of land of about 750 square kilometers on the mainland Sebarang Perai, both of which are connected by a 13 km long bridge. Georgetown is the administrative center of the island resort. Once known as the harbor of pirates, Penang has a long interesting history dating back to the mid 16th century.

Al though a relatively small destination, Penang does not have any shortage of sights and attractions to amaze visitors touring here. From cultural spots and ancient shrines to mosques, forts and splendid natural landmarks, Penang’s attractions are truly endless. However, the prime attraction of Penang is undoubtedly its beautiful beaches. Of the beaches in the area, probably the most famous is Batu Ferringhi, which is a great spot to relax as well as engage in a number of water sports activities.

Beaches such as Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang are also much popular, whose area consists of some upscale hotels and resorts. Apart from these, if you are ready to tour via jungle trails, you can reach some of the most secluded beaches in the area such as Monkey Beach and Pantai Mas.

Erected at the site where Captain Francis Light landed in 1786, Fort Cornwallis is one of the most visited tourist spots in Penang. Among the highlights of this wooden fort is a gallery exhibiting historic artifacts, an open air amphitheater, and a handicraft and souvenir center.

Another worth visiting spot in Penang is Khoo Kongsi – an impressive building, the entry to which requires a prior permission from the Kongsi office. For those who want to take a peep into the interesting history of the region, nothing would be better than taking a tour to some of the museums in the region such as the Penang Museum and Art Gallery. Likewise, climb atop the Penang Hill, rising more than 85 meters above the sea level, to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city as well as the coastal areas surrounding it.

In spite of being a popular tourist spot, Penang is also a much famed religious spot with an array of shrines. No matter you are a spiritual tourist or a history buff interested in the religious past of the region or just a sightseer, taking a tour to Penang’s temple would be a great experience.

Some of the most popular temples here are Kek Lok Si, the South East Asia’s largest Buddhist temple whose architectural designs are a mix of Burmese, Chinese, and Thai styles; Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple, with a gigantic statue of the Lord Buddha; Kuan Yin Temple, erected to honor the Chinese Goddess of Mercy and which is noted for its intricate carvings and architecture; Snake Temple, a Taoist shrine which is perhaps the one of its kind in the whole world; and Sri Mariamman Temple, which is the oldest Hindu temple in the state.

Apart from these attractions, one of the prime reasons that keep attracting tourists to Penang is its world-famous traditional style cuisines, which are more or less influenced by the cuisines of three prominent Asian groups such as Malay, Indian, and Chinese.

With a great number of restaurants and eateries, you can enjoy sumptuous Penang dishes, ranging from Roti Canai served with thick chicken gravy and Penang Satai to honey squid, baby oyster omelet and duck noodles prepared with Chinese herbs. Above all, Penang provides fabulous shopping experience, with a number of outlets and boutiques spread across the state.

When comes to accommodation, Penang boasts of a great number of hotels and resorts, all of which provide a range of options to choose from including standard rooms, family rooms, deluxe and superior rooms, studio, and executive suite. Room rates are usually inclusive of breakfast and tea/coffee.

Some hotels provide complimentary daily newspaper, and car parking facilities. No matter you prefer to stay in city center, beach location, or near shopping areas, Penang has options for all. Usually, these hotels are located within easy reach of almost all attraction that you prefer to see.

With the introduction of the internet, finding a hotel in Penang is not a tiresome task. You can easily find a hotel of your choice and that too without leaving your living rooms. There are some service providers that render online hotel reservation services.

Some even provide discounted rates for making instant hotel bookings. Whatever your preferences may be: grand, budget, or spa resort, these providers can help you find and book an accommodation of your choice, thereby enabling you to be free from the hassles of bookings.

Singapore is one of the most enchanting tourist destinations in the world. Occupying an area of about 633 square kilometers, Singapore is situated in the southern tip of Malaysia Peninsula, in South-East Asia, in between Indonesia and Malaysia.

Al though a small destination in terms of area, Singapore boasts of such a great number of attractions that it requires long period to explore them all. Acknowledged as the ‘Garden City,’ Singapore presents a diverse range of attractions that are a contrast of old and new as well as a blend of east and west. Included in the highlights of Singapore are incredible temples, interesting museums, historical monuments, well-manicured parks, beautiful gardens, excellent shopping facilities, sumptuous cuisines, and mesmerizing cruises.

Must-visit attractions, among many others, in Singapore are:

Sri Mariamman Temple: The oldest Hindu shrine in Singapore, this is devoted to Sri Mariamman, which is regarded as the goddess of health and prosperity. Also within the temple complex are temples dedicated to other gods and goddesses that are worshipped in South India.

Sentosa Island: It is a great place for those seeking peace and tranquility. Alternatively known as the ‘Isle of Peace and Tranquility,’ Sentosa is a great spot for honeymooners, those vacationing with families, and weekend tours. Among the highlights of the island are cable car, providing magnificent views of the sea port; Observatory Tower, which is the largest of its kind in Asia; the underwater world, one of the world’s largest oceanariums; Dolphin Lagoon; and Sunset Bay.

Chinatown: This area has a long history dating back to 1821 when a group of Chinese immigrants arrived here from Fujian province. Chinatown is made up of four districts such as Telok Ayer, Kreta Ayer, Bukit Pasoh, and Tanjong Pagar, each with its own significance. Few among the highlights of the region are Nagore Durgha Shrine, Hokkien Temple and Thian Hock Keng. The much famed Sri Mariamman Temple is also located here. A good number of Chinese establishments including shops, medical centers, and teahouses can also be seen in the area.

Financial District: This is one of the most modern spots in Singapore, with an array of soaring buildings such as OUB Building, Republic Plaza, and UOB Building. It is also home to such destinations as the Lau Pa Sat Festival Market, which in turn is a great place to savor the best in Asian cuisines and that too at cheap prices. Likewise, the Orchard Road is also situated here, which is dotted with a plethora of shopping malls.

Arab Street: This area stands as a repository of culture of Muslim community in the region. The prime draw of the street is the Sultan Mosque, which is noted for its unique Islamic architecture. Attractions here also cover Istana Kampung Glam and Malay cemetery, which is the oldest of its kind in the region. Apart from these, the street is dotted with a myriad of restaurants specializing in Islamic cuisines and shops selling items such as carpets, jewelry, perfumes, and textiles that have been brought from destinations such as Indonesia and Middle East.

Little India: It is a great place to experience the spirit of India in Singapore. This area becomes colorful, especially on Sundays and during festivals such as Deepavali and Thaipusam. The much famed as well as revered Veeramukaliamman Temple is situated here.

Aforesaid are just few among umpteen attractions in Singapore. Highlights also include spots like Telok Blangah Hill, Singapore River, the Esplanade, Downtown East, and the Malay Village. Aside these, Singapore also feature some beautiful beaches that are situated along the East Coast Park, Changi, Sentosa, and St Johns Island. Above all, people touring the destination can engage in a number of activities from shopping and superb dining to sightseeing and golf and water sport activities.

No wonder why Singapore is frequented by people from across the globe year-round. Hence, Singapore has accommodation choices to suit every taste and pocket. For luxury lovers and well-heeled, some excellent options are available in the form of four-star and five-star facilities. Likewise, facilities made available range from swimming pools and hair beauty salon to shopping options and body treatment facilities. Further, mostly these hotels are within easy reach of many of the attractions in the region as well as the Changi Airport.

Today is Guruvayoor Ekadashi.

My wife observes it by abstaining from eating rice. In the evening she will fast.

In the early morning, we all went to the Guruvayoorappan temple at Mayurvihar, Phase 1, in Delhi.

I wonder if Ekadashi (eleventh day after full moon/ new moon) is observed any where in the north India!

Temple Coach Fran Dunphy – on his team’s defensive effort

“I’d like to think we are a good basketball team defensively.  We’re getting there as a defensive team.  I give Lavoy (Allen) a lot of credit for that because he is always in the right spot defensively.  That’s a nice anchor for us to have.”

Temple Coach Fran Dunphy – on the offensive runs made by Temple

“That’s been our personality a little too much.  You can’t count on those runs to make a separation for us from our opponents.  We had some droughts offensively that we need to tighten up. We’d like to be more consistent and not count on those runs to get separation.”

Temple Forward Lavoy Allen – on Temple’s defensive play

“We all came into this season looking forward to playing defense.  We weren’t sure where our offense would come from.  That (defense) is the one thing we need to take advantage of.”

Temple Guard Juan Fernandez – Temple’s offense this season

“We’re still trying to find our offense.  We are doing a good job, but I think we can do better.”

Turning Point Of The Game / Key Run Of The Game

The first half was a tight defensive battle.  Virginia Tech moved ahead 15 – 14 with 8:29 remaining in the 1st half.  Temple went on a 10 – 2 run to halftime.  That made the score 27 – 17 and gave the Owls a lead they would build on in the 2nd half.  Temple Forward Lavoy Allen  scored 5 of the Temple 10 points in that span.

Key Stat In The Game

Temple having a 34 – 16 advantage in Points in the Paint.  This stat shows that they established Lavoy Allen down low.  He had 18 points on 8 of 9 shooting.  Allen pulled down 10 rebounds, and dished out 4 assists. 

 Temple’s defense was a key as they limited Virginia Tech to 29.8% shooting (17 – 57) and limited the Hokies to 3 – 15 3-Point shooting.

Key Players In The Game

For Temple

Forward Lavoy Allen who shot 8 of 9 from the field and made 2 of 3 free throws for 18 points.  Allen grabbed 10 rebounds (3 offensive) for a double-double.  Allen showed his passing skills as he dished out 4 assists.

For Virginia Tech

Guard Malcolm Delaney shot 9 of 21 from the field and 3 of 10 3-Point Shots, and 11 of 11 from the foul line for 32 points.  Delaney scored 28 points in the 2nd half.  He accounted for 28 of Virginia Tech’s 33 2nd half points.

Point Where The Game Was Decided

With 10:58 remaining in the 2nd half Virginia Tech cut the Temple lead to 38 – 32.  Temple responded with a 19 – 4 run to take a 55 – 36 lead with 5:01 to play.  Lavoy Allen scored 10 points during that surge.  Virginia Tech would get no closer than 11 for the rest of the game.

Written By:  Glenn Papazian