Kali in Rishikesh

I met her!!! Kali! Goddess of Destruction....in the form of a thali (south indian food sample platter) here in Rishikesh. She purified my soul and my belly. Now, two days later, I am stronger and able to enjoy the beauty of this magical village town on the banks of the powerful Ganges. I have been befriended by Diwali, my elder, statesman-like hotelier. Under a cool sun, we sip chai while sitting in wicker chairs on his porch. He likes to discuss politics, geography, and how dreams become reality. Rishikesh, land of Gods, is nestled in the foothills of the Himalaya. The town is full of seekers, sadhus, pilgrims, merchants, snake charmers, monkeys, yoga ashrams and ayurvedic treatment centers. The slate green Ganges winds around curves and boulders and pujas (rituals) are performed on her banks each evening. The first night here I dipped my hands in the water, tears rolling down my cheeks---for the first time here, I felt the timelessness of sorrows and joys of this place. It's a powerful spot, Rishikesh, and it has humbled me and slowed my pace. After the rickshaw rapidness of Delhi, it is very good to breathe more deeply and begin to surrender to this wild dream called India.