Serving and Spiralling Love

After saying goodbye to our grandfather, we started walking to our next destination. The road seemed longer today, and by lunch time, as we were about to collapse, we heard a sweet voice welcoming us. Arti called us into her house; she had the most radiant smile. She pointed us to a room specifically designed for pilgrims, and the very first meal we had today was bundi and jalebi (Indian sweets made from chickpea flour). Looking at our food, we remembered all our dessert lovers, and, with a big smile, ate it all. We were so tired that we couldn’t move an inch, so, with our stomachs full, we slept straight for an hour. In my half-baked, sleep, I heard someone say," Don’t talk so loudly, they are very tired, let them sleep and take proper rest. 

Once we came to our senses, we saw Arti making food for us. We joined her in making some rotis (Indian flat bread) and later shared a meal with them. Arti teaches English in her village school. Her parents have been in this profession for over 30 years. Interestingly, this family serves jalebi and bundi to everyone who passes by their shop, be it a pilgrim, a customer, a child, or an animal. We spent almost three hours with them, and we saw people constantly knocking on their door, but they kept finding space to serve everyone walking by with a big smile. 

Arti, in her conversation, shared how we should even meditate while we are doing the pilgrimage. She shared about different meditation courses she has been through, and now she is looking forward to a 10-day Vipassana course. There was so much to connect; it felt as if we were meeting our sister living in another village. 

With more intimate conversations, we had special ginger tea made by the uncle. Aunty shared how she worked hard so that both her daughters could study well and find better opportunities for their lives ahead. 

While waving goodbye, Arti asked us if she could give us a bike ride to the next village. Because we are walking this time, we said we will keep that offer for the next time. 

What a joy it was to connect to the family serving andspiralingg love:)

Garudeshwar to Vagach via Boriyad