Secret Spot 7 Summits Blog
Chandhrama...B^]
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/05/17/sywambunath.aspx)
Sweet Chandhrama begs me to dream of You...on this most auspicious day...celebrating the birth of Lord Buddha!
Until Soon
BuddhaPhill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Sweet Chandhrama begs me to dream of You...on this most auspicious day...celebrating the birth of Lord Buddha!
Until Soon
BuddhaPhill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Let's have two minutes of...Solace!
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/05/09/lets-have-a-minute-ofsolace.aspx)
Sherparatri in Kathmandu!
Feeling stressed?!
I suggest closing the door and getting comfortable. Reeeeelax.
Ready?!
Press play on any one of the following videos...closing your eyes...breath deeply...and listen.
Sherparatri in Kathmandu!
Feeling stressed?!
I suggest closing the door and getting comfortable. Reeeeelax.
Ready?!
Press play on any one of the following videos...closing your eyes...breath deeply...and listen.
Download | Duration: 00:02:06
The New Nepal! B^]
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/05/07/the-new-nepal-b.aspx)
Shiva(the patron Saint of Sherparatri) and Parwati appear to like the New Nepal.
The 20th Century brought about change for a rather provinical Nepal. In the early 1950's(the late part of the first decade of their 21st century i.e. 1951 in the 'Western World' was 2008 in Nepal...give or take a month or so)...King Tribuvhan's admistration exhibited revolutionary behaviour...as did the people of Nepal. To bring about the easing of the caste system was courageous and avant-garde. Revolutions had just happened all over Asia(eg India, Pakistan and China). This paradigm shift of 60 years ago directly contributes to the freedom the Nepalese enjoy today.
"My Cas' is Kick Ass!"
The other day...while I was getting a straight razor shave...a new friend, Mahadub, asked me what MY caste was...which clearly stated that he wasn't aware that things didn't work any other way than they they do right here. Or do they?!
Since I am in Nepal...and it's good to try to embrace the culture of where you are...I said, "My caste?! My Cas' is Kick Ass!". His head bobbled in the affirmative...and a shrill and lengthy laugh busted out of his soul.
Chhiring Sherpa and Madhavsilwal (Mahadub) Biky stand under an ancient Pipal tree that has lived in Kathmandu for centuries!
The Sherpa people of Nepal were really the first to break 'out' of their caste. In the early 1950's...when Nepal started to open it's borders to the rest of the World...their 'no non-sense' and capable nature made them the ideal canidates to lead Himalayan climbing expeditions...like Everest! Their bold behaviour was a catalyst for change. No expedition can be successful in the Himalayas without the Sherpa. The first person to stand on the highest point in the World was Tenzing Norgay Sherpa! Anyone who thinks otherwise is just not giving credit where credit is due.
The beginning of the 21st century(2000...the year George W. took power in the US of A) saw the Nepalese attempt to herald a 'New Nepal'. Any meaningful changes take time...in ANY environment ...and time ignores the ambtions of man...whether he likes it or not. Try and swim against a rising tide...and you will see that energies are often better spent 'going with the flow'. I recommend catching a sweet, tasty wave...rather than one that will close out on you quickly. =^]
Nepal sports a culture where tens of ethnicities live together in realtive harmony. It's worth praising! There is no 'us' and 'them' in a functional society...only 'US'! The sooner everybody realizes that...the better for all.
Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel and Shuva Sharma consider the route of the Bhanu Peace Path
I'm playing a small role in the development of the Bhanu Peace Path. It's the brain child of Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel...with a little help from seasoned and effective Rotarians like Ralph Hammond. The path will, literally and figuratively, join cultures and ethnicities...and all roads will lead to the Lumbini...the birth place of Lord Buddha! The SherpaSchool.ORG(Hmmmm...we really need to give it a proper name) will be the first community centre/school on the path...and there will be similar institutions along said path...fed by the power that the wheel of the Rotary generates. It's going to be good. Subscirbe to this blog...and you can watch it all happen in real time. I invite you.
Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel and Phill Michael with Tanahun, Nepal in the background
My my...it's seems so simple to have clarity from the New Nepal...I guess that's because it's the Centre of the Universe...and you can't get any 'higher' than in Nepal! I'll say it again...and again. To live in an enviroment that feeds the spiritual side of one's being...while living in close proximity to the Natural(and thousands of temples)...is mind numbingly beautific...I assure you. To exist in a place where Love and Honour aren't just theories...but actually rule paramount...brings us closer to be human.
Purna Lama tells me his story at his ancestral home
As I watched the first blossoms of a multitude of fruit trees emerge from their winter dormancy, I pondered this New Nepal. My Good friend, Purna Lama' spoke to me of an ancient Nepal...where his Tamang grandfather was nothing more than a slave. His family history touched my heart...as did his simple philosophies. People with less (materially) always give more. What am I talking about?! Give it some thought...if you dare...=^>
The New Nepal isn't just a concept...it's a reality that will blossom into sweet fruit. I can taste it.
My greatest Muse recently informed me that my last dispatch brought her 'Here'. That was my plan. That's always the plan...to bring YOU...the Reader...right here. She says she 'loves' Nepal...though she hasn't been here(other than virtually...through this blog) for waaay too long. The Winds of Change...they are always blowing.
'Ramro' and 'Yakpudu'...all at once!
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Shiva(the patron Saint of Sherparatri) and Parwati appear to like the New Nepal.
The 20th Century brought about change for a rather provinical Nepal. In the early 1950's(the late part of the first decade of their 21st century i.e. 1951 in the 'Western World' was 2008 in Nepal...give or take a month or so)...King Tribuvhan's admistration exhibited revolutionary behaviour...as did the people of Nepal. To bring about the easing of the caste system was courageous and avant-garde. Revolutions had just happened all over Asia(eg India, Pakistan and China). This paradigm shift of 60 years ago directly contributes to the freedom the Nepalese enjoy today.
"My Cas' is Kick Ass!"
The other day...while I was getting a straight razor shave...a new friend, Mahadub, asked me what MY caste was...which clearly stated that he wasn't aware that things didn't work any other way than they they do right here. Or do they?!
Since I am in Nepal...and it's good to try to embrace the culture of where you are...I said, "My caste?! My Cas' is Kick Ass!". His head bobbled in the affirmative...and a shrill and lengthy laugh busted out of his soul.
Chhiring Sherpa and Madhavsilwal (Mahadub) Biky stand under an ancient Pipal tree that has lived in Kathmandu for centuries!
The Sherpa people of Nepal were really the first to break 'out' of their caste. In the early 1950's...when Nepal started to open it's borders to the rest of the World...their 'no non-sense' and capable nature made them the ideal canidates to lead Himalayan climbing expeditions...like Everest! Their bold behaviour was a catalyst for change. No expedition can be successful in the Himalayas without the Sherpa. The first person to stand on the highest point in the World was Tenzing Norgay Sherpa! Anyone who thinks otherwise is just not giving credit where credit is due.
The beginning of the 21st century(2000...the year George W. took power in the US of A) saw the Nepalese attempt to herald a 'New Nepal'. Any meaningful changes take time...in ANY environment ...and time ignores the ambtions of man...whether he likes it or not. Try and swim against a rising tide...and you will see that energies are often better spent 'going with the flow'. I recommend catching a sweet, tasty wave...rather than one that will close out on you quickly. =^]
Nepal sports a culture where tens of ethnicities live together in realtive harmony. It's worth praising! There is no 'us' and 'them' in a functional society...only 'US'! The sooner everybody realizes that...the better for all.
Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel and Shuva Sharma consider the route of the Bhanu Peace Path
I'm playing a small role in the development of the Bhanu Peace Path. It's the brain child of Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel...with a little help from seasoned and effective Rotarians like Ralph Hammond. The path will, literally and figuratively, join cultures and ethnicities...and all roads will lead to the Lumbini...the birth place of Lord Buddha! The SherpaSchool.ORG(Hmmmm...we really need to give it a proper name) will be the first community centre/school on the path...and there will be similar institutions along said path...fed by the power that the wheel of the Rotary generates. It's going to be good. Subscirbe to this blog...and you can watch it all happen in real time. I invite you.
Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel and Phill Michael with Tanahun, Nepal in the background
My my...it's seems so simple to have clarity from the New Nepal...I guess that's because it's the Centre of the Universe...and you can't get any 'higher' than in Nepal! I'll say it again...and again. To live in an enviroment that feeds the spiritual side of one's being...while living in close proximity to the Natural(and thousands of temples)...is mind numbingly beautific...I assure you. To exist in a place where Love and Honour aren't just theories...but actually rule paramount...brings us closer to be human.
Purna Lama tells me his story at his ancestral home
As I watched the first blossoms of a multitude of fruit trees emerge from their winter dormancy, I pondered this New Nepal. My Good friend, Purna Lama' spoke to me of an ancient Nepal...where his Tamang grandfather was nothing more than a slave. His family history touched my heart...as did his simple philosophies. People with less (materially) always give more. What am I talking about?! Give it some thought...if you dare...=^>
The New Nepal isn't just a concept...it's a reality that will blossom into sweet fruit. I can taste it.
My greatest Muse recently informed me that my last dispatch brought her 'Here'. That was my plan. That's always the plan...to bring YOU...the Reader...right here. She says she 'loves' Nepal...though she hasn't been here(other than virtually...through this blog) for waaay too long. The Winds of Change...they are always blowing.
'Ramro' and 'Yakpudu'...all at once!
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
The Bhanu Peace Path of Nepal! B^]
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/04/30/the-bhanu-peace-path-b.aspx)
Lovely Ankita
Saroj is too busy for the super fresh fish! B^P
Brooding darkness defines the horizon to the east of the Kathmandu Valley...and for once...weather moves in from that direction. Sunny thoughts pierce my mind. Thoughts of Tanahun, Nepali sunshine with flowers and fresh water fish dance like sugar plums through my brain.
A mad scramble for sun drying laundry is precipitated by an afternoon Thundershower...and the heartbeat of Kathmandu resonates through Nepal. I can watch it from up here...and I can feel it.
A number of days ago...there was a total ban on fossil fuel powered vehicle use in Kathmandu...so pure peacefulness reigned in an otherwise normally congested infrastructure.
Chirring is THE Freedom Fry Master! B^P
I'm enjoying an unscheduled brown out at the new place...as Chhiring once again wins the Sherpararti Himalayan Freedom Fry Making Contest of April 2011.
Chirring and a Guest will be flown to Chitiwan, by Yeti airlines, for a seven day adventure based out of an all inclusive resort...and will be vying for the coveted title of National Nepali Potato Frying Champion of 2068. Chhiring should be completing his salting and ketchup certification in about 30 minutes.
Lakpa Sherpa gets her smile on for some Dhal Bhat!
Ram Chandra Pokhrel and Master Gelu Sherpa walk the beginnings of the Bhanu Peace Path!
Let's wheel back in time to the Ascent of Mount Tanahunsur in earlier April 2011...
Reflection time in Dumauli and heavy rain is cascading into a strategically placed, plastic bucket...as the heavens unleash a peaceful, nourishing deluge. The roads we just drove upon went from a thin ribbon of asphalt to a rushing river.
An early morning greeted us with clarity and a sunny afternoon saw a formal meeting of the Banu Peace Path committee call to order. Rolling along we are. B^]
Pete Colgan pondered our(Ralph Hammond,Ram Chandra Pokhrel, Pete and I) numerous conversations while he very recently flew through New Jersey airspace and wrote this very early draft of the the vision of the Bhanu Peace Path of Nepal...from the SherpaSchool.ORG / Rotary perspective...
__________
Vision:
Bhanu brought the diverse peoples of Nepal together in solidarity as a nation through his enlightened ideas, expressed via the beautiful use of a common written language. The Bhanu Peace Path will honor his accomplishment by serving as a metaphor for that enlightened connection of diverse peoples. The path will connect communities along its route from Lumbini to Everest who have committed to the education of their children and the betterment of all of citizens through the establishment and stewardship of a community education center that:
-Enables elementary education for all using age-appropriate teaching methods
-Fosters healthful, low-impact lifestyles, and
-Celebrates and reinforce the language and cultural traditions that make each community unique.
__________
And so we roll forward...
Traditional dancing for the President of Nepal!
We spent a Monday 'hobnobbing' with associates of the President of this fine country. I witnessed long speeches, cultural dancing...and general good cheer. It is easy to be positive and optimistic at the Centre of the Universe!
The following Tuesday was equally interesting. Mr Ram Chandra Pokhrel was good enough to introduce me to the grounds of an ancient kingdom. We ascended Mt. Tanahunsur with vigor...drinking in the beautiful views and the Nepali culture.
Brazilla chops it up via Ncell at the watering hole!
Ravi and Anu
We were fortunate enough to not only enjoy the company of Mr. Ravi Shreshtra and his son Anubrava ...but also his niece, Dr. Brazilla Shreshtra. A 1.3 litre Maruti petrol engine transported us from Damauli to the heights of Tanahun village. From there, we used our feet to explore the aged grounds of a lost civilization. Mr Pokhrel told me that the king of this land ruled hundreds...possibly thousands of square kilometres...from the land we stood upon to the plains of the Ganges. This history made us appreciate the scope of our experience...and compelled my mind to visualize a different era.
Ankita in beautiful traditional dress...and a Baby Goat!
As another doorway struck my forehead, I truly realized that these diminutive people shared many hundreds of years of culture and tradition...while north America was just a dream. Things were readily put into perspective as my eyes roamed over the landscape...while my ears were filled with historical lore.
An early morning greeted us with clarity and a sunny afternoon saw a formal meeting of the Banu Peace Path committee call to order. Rolling along we are. B^]
Pete Colgan pondered our(Ralph Hammond,Ram Chandra Pokhrel, Pete and I) numerous conversations while he very recently flew through New Jersey airspace and wrote this very early draft of the the vision of the Bhanu Peace Path of Nepal...from the SherpaSchool.ORG / Rotary perspective...
__________
Vision:
Bhanu brought the diverse peoples of Nepal together in solidarity as a nation through his enlightened ideas, expressed via the beautiful use of a common written language. The Bhanu Peace Path will honor his accomplishment by serving as a metaphor for that enlightened connection of diverse peoples. The path will connect communities along its route from Lumbini to Everest who have committed to the education of their children and the betterment of all of citizens through the establishment and stewardship of a community education center that:
-Enables elementary education for all using age-appropriate teaching methods
-Fosters healthful, low-impact lifestyles, and
-Celebrates and reinforce the language and cultural traditions that make each community unique.
__________
And so we roll forward...
Traditional dancing for the President of Nepal!
We spent a Monday 'hobnobbing' with associates of the President of this fine country. I witnessed long speeches, cultural dancing...and general good cheer. It is easy to be positive and optimistic at the Centre of the Universe!
The following Tuesday was equally interesting. Mr Ram Chandra Pokhrel was good enough to introduce me to the grounds of an ancient kingdom. We ascended Mt. Tanahunsur with vigor...drinking in the beautiful views and the Nepali culture.
Brazilla chops it up via Ncell at the watering hole!
Ravi and Anu
We were fortunate enough to not only enjoy the company of Mr. Ravi Shreshtra and his son Anubrava ...but also his niece, Dr. Brazilla Shreshtra. A 1.3 litre Maruti petrol engine transported us from Damauli to the heights of Tanahun village. From there, we used our feet to explore the aged grounds of a lost civilization. Mr Pokhrel told me that the king of this land ruled hundreds...possibly thousands of square kilometres...from the land we stood upon to the plains of the Ganges. This history made us appreciate the scope of our experience...and compelled my mind to visualize a different era.
Ankita in beautiful traditional dress...and a Baby Goat!
As another doorway struck my forehead, I truly realized that these diminutive people shared many hundreds of years of culture and tradition...while north America was just a dream. Things were readily put into perspective as my eyes roamed over the landscape...while my ears were filled with historical lore.
Lali Bahadur Baniya and Son, Phill Michael and Ram Chandra Pokhrel
The hospitality of the local people was outrageous...and Gelu and I were treated to another version of the ubiquitous Dhal Bhat. It's amazing how a change in diet(steaks and potatoes vs organic vegetables and rice) can open one's heart and mind! B^P
The professional Garlic Peelers at the Hotel Santosh in Damauli!
Another spetacular sunset at the KTM Hideout! B^]
We were watching some fellows at the Santosh Hotel remove the husks from a huge basket of garlic. I like to cook...but I despise peeling garlic...and it is nice to witness folks enjoy the most tedious of tasks with good humour. It's another reminder of the unique character of the Nepali people...and their ability to make the most of any situation.
I love Nepal! B^]
Until SoonThe hospitality of the local people was outrageous...and Gelu and I were treated to another version of the ubiquitous Dhal Bhat. It's amazing how a change in diet(steaks and potatoes vs organic vegetables and rice) can open one's heart and mind! B^P
The professional Garlic Peelers at the Hotel Santosh in Damauli!
Another spetacular sunset at the KTM Hideout! B^]
We were watching some fellows at the Santosh Hotel remove the husks from a huge basket of garlic. I like to cook...but I despise peeling garlic...and it is nice to witness folks enjoy the most tedious of tasks with good humour. It's another reminder of the unique character of the Nepali people...and their ability to make the most of any situation.
I love Nepal! B^]
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Sundar Nepal! B^)
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/04/13/sundar-nepal-b.aspx)
Two more Wonders of Nepal; Sushma and Ankita!
Wow!
Ankita's Father is the Samosa Master!
We are really, really, really busy enjoying the Beauty of Nepal right now. Somebody has to do it...so it might as well be us! B^>
Gelu Sherpa and Phill Michael are reunited after a more than three year hiatus from Nepal!
Gelu Sherpa (Dawa's Nephew) has returned from his hamburger flipping job in the Saudi Arabia...so the two Moto Manchis(rough translation from Nepali to English: 'Big/Phat Men') are exploring a country we had both been sorely missing in 2010.
Phuri's Monastery, Phill Michael and the Mini Time Machine.
Phuri Sherpa reflects upon the Past and the Future...
Ramro!
We managed to roll over to Phuri's Buddhist Monastery and have a little visit...as well as visit a nearby Hindu Temple.
The Pristine Forest of Dakshinkali!
The many bells of Dakshinkali!
There are endless sites for spiritual devotion in Nepal...possibly too many to see in a lifetime! Luckily we all have more than one life to lead...=^]
Mr. Pokhrel makes it all happen!
Now we are in the Tanahun region...fresh from:
-participating in a festival to honour Nepal's greatest poets
-rubbing shoulders with the President of Nepal and his associates
-ascending Mt. Tanahunsur with Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel
-laying foundations for the Banu Peace Path that may well link projects similar to the SherpaSchool.ORG
-etc, etc.
A sweet voice sings for the President of Nepal!
The beginnings of the Banu Peace Path!
More about all that in my next dispatch.
Currently, we're ensconced in the Santosh Hotel in Damauli...where there is the fastest Wi-Fi I have experienced since arriving in Nepal. Ramro! B^]
Nepali New Year was last night...so we thought we would be stuffing toilet paper in our ears...to block out the party noises...but silence reigned supreme by 11pm?! Strange but true. I expected the noise of drunken revelers to be near deafening...as Nepali people will generally make any excuse to celebrate Life...which...in my opinion...is admirable. B^]
I was picturing us weaving around passed out party goers today...bloated, snoring pylons on a (hopefully) deserted highway. We shall see...
It's 2068 at the Centre of the Universe(Nepal)...as we continue to look toward to a bright future without boundaries! Let us ALL rejoice...regardless of our respective GPS coordinates!
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Two more Wonders of Nepal; Sushma and Ankita!
Wow!
Ankita's Father is the Samosa Master!
We are really, really, really busy enjoying the Beauty of Nepal right now. Somebody has to do it...so it might as well be us! B^>
Download | Duration: 00:00:23
Gelu Sherpa and Phill Michael are reunited after a more than three year hiatus from Nepal!
Gelu Sherpa (Dawa's Nephew) has returned from his hamburger flipping job in the Saudi Arabia...so the two Moto Manchis(rough translation from Nepali to English: 'Big/Phat Men') are exploring a country we had both been sorely missing in 2010.
Phuri's Monastery, Phill Michael and the Mini Time Machine.
Phuri Sherpa reflects upon the Past and the Future...
Ramro!
We managed to roll over to Phuri's Buddhist Monastery and have a little visit...as well as visit a nearby Hindu Temple.
The Pristine Forest of Dakshinkali!
The many bells of Dakshinkali!
There are endless sites for spiritual devotion in Nepal...possibly too many to see in a lifetime! Luckily we all have more than one life to lead...=^]
Mr. Pokhrel makes it all happen!
Now we are in the Tanahun region...fresh from:
-participating in a festival to honour Nepal's greatest poets
-rubbing shoulders with the President of Nepal and his associates
-ascending Mt. Tanahunsur with Mr. Ram Chandra Pokhrel
-laying foundations for the Banu Peace Path that may well link projects similar to the SherpaSchool.ORG
-etc, etc.
A sweet voice sings for the President of Nepal!
The beginnings of the Banu Peace Path!
More about all that in my next dispatch.
Currently, we're ensconced in the Santosh Hotel in Damauli...where there is the fastest Wi-Fi I have experienced since arriving in Nepal. Ramro! B^]
Nepali New Year was last night...so we thought we would be stuffing toilet paper in our ears...to block out the party noises...but silence reigned supreme by 11pm?! Strange but true. I expected the noise of drunken revelers to be near deafening...as Nepali people will generally make any excuse to celebrate Life...which...in my opinion...is admirable. B^]
I was picturing us weaving around passed out party goers today...bloated, snoring pylons on a (hopefully) deserted highway. We shall see...
It's 2068 at the Centre of the Universe(Nepal)...as we continue to look toward to a bright future without boundaries! Let us ALL rejoice...regardless of our respective GPS coordinates!
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Living on KTM time...again! B^]
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/04/10/back-on-ktm-time.aspx)
SecretSpot.NET has a new look...check it out now!
Sometimes the hectic pace of life in the 21st century causes us to be so distracted that we don't allow ourselves time to be introspective. Taking the time to re-acquaint ourselves with what is genuine and what is superficial can be challenging. It is often compelling to get caught up in minutia and/or media events...and make mountains out of molehills.
Technology is a wonderful thing if used for its original purpose...to educate and illuminate. I wish I could get excited about the Kardasians latest tweet...Charlie Sheen's latest Facebook drama...swatch choices for the British Royal wedding...but I just can't find it in myself to do so. There are much better things to focus on.
Coming Soon to the Most Healing Hospital in the World.
SecretSpot.NET has a new look...check it out now!
Sometimes the hectic pace of life in the 21st century causes us to be so distracted that we don't allow ourselves time to be introspective. Taking the time to re-acquaint ourselves with what is genuine and what is superficial can be challenging. It is often compelling to get caught up in minutia and/or media events...and make mountains out of molehills.
Technology is a wonderful thing if used for its original purpose...to educate and illuminate. I wish I could get excited about the Kardasians latest tweet...Charlie Sheen's latest Facebook drama...swatch choices for the British Royal wedding...but I just can't find it in myself to do so. There are much better things to focus on.
Coming Soon to the Most Healing Hospital in the World.
As a 150cc Indian made motor purred beneath my hulk...the unique sights, sounds and scents of the Monkey Temple caressed my senses...and some 'random scrawlings' on a wall caught my eye:
'In quarreling the truth is always lost!'
Hmmmmm...not so 'random'...in fact...very, very poignant!
Some folks like to convert their own personal sadness into an arrow of anger that they aim at what they perceive as a shining target. It's awfully hard to effectively hit your target when your arms are full of baggage. =^]
People have been visiting Swayambunath since time immemorial, so as far as I'm concerned, age old wisdom is always worth considering. I hope you agree.
In past lives, I've come in close contact with people who believe that, 'we live to suffer'. How ridiculous is that statement?! Totally ridiculous! Through careful analysis and reflection I've come to the conclusion that we can easily live our dreams...if we choose to rise above our supposedly inherent selfish human nature and become more aware.
'First World' sensibilities tend to think that the people of the 'Third World' are caught up in turmoil and chaos. I can report...from my own experience...that it is quite the opposite.
Cosmos rules supreme at the Centre of the Universe. I'm reminded of that every moment that my three eyes are open. =^]
Each of us has the ability to enjoy pure peacefulness...if we choose to be aware...so on that note...let's consider a Peace Path in Nepal...
Yes Mr. Ram...I'd like to help you build a Peace Path!
'In quarreling the truth is always lost!'
Hmmmmm...not so 'random'...in fact...very, very poignant!
Some folks like to convert their own personal sadness into an arrow of anger that they aim at what they perceive as a shining target. It's awfully hard to effectively hit your target when your arms are full of baggage. =^]
People have been visiting Swayambunath since time immemorial, so as far as I'm concerned, age old wisdom is always worth considering. I hope you agree.
In past lives, I've come in close contact with people who believe that, 'we live to suffer'. How ridiculous is that statement?! Totally ridiculous! Through careful analysis and reflection I've come to the conclusion that we can easily live our dreams...if we choose to rise above our supposedly inherent selfish human nature and become more aware.
'First World' sensibilities tend to think that the people of the 'Third World' are caught up in turmoil and chaos. I can report...from my own experience...that it is quite the opposite.
Cosmos rules supreme at the Centre of the Universe. I'm reminded of that every moment that my three eyes are open. =^]
Each of us has the ability to enjoy pure peacefulness...if we choose to be aware...so on that note...let's consider a Peace Path in Nepal...
Yes Mr. Ram...I'd like to help you build a Peace Path!
School supplies and clothing that's on its way to the SherpaSchool.ORG...care of the Bedford Rotary.
Phill Michael and Mr. Binod Motorcycle
This house cost 9 Nepali Rupees 60 years ago. How things change! =^]
Ang Dawa Sherpa and Phill Michael enjoy another Nepali Hatman Convention at a Customs office.
A spur of the moment motorcycle ride took us around the Nagarkot loop. It was an excellent outing...and a nice change from the inordinate amount of time I have been spending in my Kathmandu (not so) mobile office.
Binod was in his element....and Kurt the German re-acquainted himself with two wheel motorized transport...after a 10 year hiatus. He did well.
Cold Cruisin' the hillsides surrounding the Kathmandu Valley.
Cold Cruisin' the hillsides surrounding the Kathmandu Valley.
Download | Duration: 00:00:34
Cold Chillin' with Wilbur!
Making connections over dinner at the Kathmandu Guest House.
Ang Dawa Sherpa's kids continue to fuel me with Dhal Bhat!
The Dragon is rising!
Cold Rollin' through Nepali Hillsides!
Dinner with a new Danish friend.
Juicy Fruit and very beautiful sights!
A new Secret Spot with New Friends!
Re-united with Bajee Namgel.
Chhiring Dawa is one step closer to the First World!
I might start sending dispatches more often so I suggest you subscribe to PhillMichael.COM...I invite you!
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Shimbuno Re-visited...B^]
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/03/26/shimbuno-revisited.aspx)
Two Fisted Crackberry action in Kathmandu, Nepal
I love my Kathmandu(KTM) office!
I am equipped with 24 hours of clean 220V power and all the trappings of the First World...but firmly rooted in the Third World...Nepal. Most people in KTM are subject to 'load shedding'...a phenomenon where power is available for about 10 hours a day...on a rotating schedule.
Peekay talking at 4096m/13,365ft.
There's still tens of gigabytes of images and video to go through. All in good time. We've been busy while in civilization...but not so busy that we couldn't attend the Gorakhani picnic last Sunday. It happened near the Bodinath.
The world famous Bodinath...a Unesco World Heritage Site!
Our day started well as...Unda Manchi(Dawa) made me one of his patented omlettes!
Shimbuno re-visited...indeed! B^P
I guess it is the year of the Rabbit in Sherpa-land?!
Phuri Sherpa, Ang Dawa Sherpa and Phill Michael on the way tot he Gorakhani picnic
One nice surprise was encountering Phuri Sherpa (Dawa's nephew). He's the fellow who had the aortic valve replacement in May 2009! You can learn more about that here!
Phuri is alive and well...and continuing to enjoy being Phuri the Monk!
Phuri Sherpa and Phill Michael re-united almost two years after Phuri's Aortic Valve replacement.
For some reason...they planted me on the stage?! =^>
There was food for hundreds of people!
Mitotsa! B^P
Nuri's (Dawa's brother-in-law) beautiful kids enjoy the picnic!
_______________________________________________________
I just returned from a long day of running and riding around KTM. It ended with digesting some tasty morsels at Kharel's...and utilizing his 'high speed' ADSL connection. I was uploading at 20kbs. It was like watching a yak shed.
These sisters made us a fine dinner...again! B^P
By the time 1030pm rolled around I was cruising through the deserted streets...taking the mini Time Machine through some paces. I saw very few vehicles...though there was a big water truck with a motorcycle COMPLETELY jammed under it...with plenty of people standing around it...in the dark.
Every moment in Nepal is Chaos...every minute in Nepal is a glimpse into a greater Cosmos.
This is truly the Centre of the Universe! B^]
A brisk jog up the stairs at the KTMGH and my balcony door greeted me with flowers!
I wonder who left them?! Hmmmm...=^>
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
With the help of a generator, the Kathmandu Guest House has furnished some of their rooms with full time power. I like it! Ramro!
Gone are the days of trying to figure out when the power is going to be on or off...or how one is to charge a laptop, etc, etc.
Also...with the Ncell USB modem I'm using...I can...as Kharel would say, 'Surf the Internet verrry niiiiicely!'
Also...with the Ncell USB modem I'm using...I can...as Kharel would say, 'Surf the Internet verrry niiiiicely!'
I'm also catching up on my B-movie viewing...as I like to have the TV on in the background when typing/skyping. The 60 or so channels available are lousy with programs we North Americans would rather soon forget. Fortunately, there are some diamonds in the (extreme) rough. I have to admit that I'm starting to enjoy the Hindi channels with the swamis and yogis. That stuff is trippy...yet edifying. I'm sure it would be even more so...if I understood the language!
We are still trying to find time to process all the media from the recent SherpaSchool.ORG Winter Foundation Trek. Slowly but surely! Here's a short video of the view from the top of Peekay Peak on March 6th, 2011:
We are still trying to find time to process all the media from the recent SherpaSchool.ORG Winter Foundation Trek. Slowly but surely! Here's a short video of the view from the top of Peekay Peak on March 6th, 2011:
Download | Duration: 00:00:22
Peekay talking at 4096m/13,365ft.
There's still tens of gigabytes of images and video to go through. All in good time. We've been busy while in civilization...but not so busy that we couldn't attend the Gorakhani picnic last Sunday. It happened near the Bodinath.
The world famous Bodinath...a Unesco World Heritage Site!
Our day started well as...Unda Manchi(Dawa) made me one of his patented omlettes!
Shimbuno re-visited...indeed! B^P
I guess it is the year of the Rabbit in Sherpa-land?!
Phuri Sherpa, Ang Dawa Sherpa and Phill Michael on the way tot he Gorakhani picnic
One nice surprise was encountering Phuri Sherpa (Dawa's nephew). He's the fellow who had the aortic valve replacement in May 2009! You can learn more about that here!
Phuri is alive and well...and continuing to enjoy being Phuri the Monk!
Phuri Sherpa and Phill Michael re-united almost two years after Phuri's Aortic Valve replacement.
For some reason...they planted me on the stage?! =^>
There was food for hundreds of people!
Mitotsa! B^P
Nuri's (Dawa's brother-in-law) beautiful kids enjoy the picnic!
_______________________________________________________
I just returned from a long day of running and riding around KTM. It ended with digesting some tasty morsels at Kharel's...and utilizing his 'high speed' ADSL connection. I was uploading at 20kbs. It was like watching a yak shed.
These sisters made us a fine dinner...again! B^P
By the time 1030pm rolled around I was cruising through the deserted streets...taking the mini Time Machine through some paces. I saw very few vehicles...though there was a big water truck with a motorcycle COMPLETELY jammed under it...with plenty of people standing around it...in the dark.
Every moment in Nepal is Chaos...every minute in Nepal is a glimpse into a greater Cosmos.
This is truly the Centre of the Universe! B^]
A brisk jog up the stairs at the KTMGH and my balcony door greeted me with flowers!
I wonder who left them?! Hmmmm...=^>
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
Holi! %^)
(This dispatch is available with plugins at: http://blog.secretspoteverest.com/2011/03/19/holi-.aspx)
At the Centre of the Universe (Nepal), the Super Full Moon in March 2011 marks the festival called Holi!
There's coloured dye...tons of laughs...water balloons...and most importantly...copious quantities of good food! Most of the Kathmandu locals, including Ang Dawa Sherpa hide in their homes as to not be bombarded by paint missiles!
Post finger-painting session!
The Holi Feast is being prepared!
Kharel and Phill were starving!
Sweet goodness!
Covered in dye!
Holi is indeed a sensible festival!
We are still busy processing all the media from the Winter 2011 SherpaSchool.ORG Foundation Trek.
Here's a quick video to spur Tom's memory...
Phill Michael and Tom Colgan on top of the bus at 10,000 feet in remote Nepal.
Contact me to see how you can join the SherpaSchool.ORG Spring 2011 Foundation Trek and/or subscribe to PhillMichael.com to virtually join us.
I invite you!
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
At the Centre of the Universe (Nepal), the Super Full Moon in March 2011 marks the festival called Holi!
There's coloured dye...tons of laughs...water balloons...and most importantly...copious quantities of good food! Most of the Kathmandu locals, including Ang Dawa Sherpa hide in their homes as to not be bombarded by paint missiles!
Post finger-painting session!
The Holi Feast is being prepared!
Kharel and Phill were starving!
Sweet goodness!
Covered in dye!
Holi is indeed a sensible festival!
We are still busy processing all the media from the Winter 2011 SherpaSchool.ORG Foundation Trek.
Here's a quick video to spur Tom's memory...
Download | Duration: 00:00:12
Phill Michael and Tom Colgan on top of the bus at 10,000 feet in remote Nepal.
Contact me to see how you can join the SherpaSchool.ORG Spring 2011 Foundation Trek and/or subscribe to PhillMichael.com to virtually join us.
I invite you!
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
We flew out of Shangri La! B^)
The Pilatus Porter awaits...with the Himalayas looking on approvingly!
Approaching our aircraft
After an inordinate amount of walking, napping, negotiating, yelling, screaming...and general disarray that is prevalent at remote Nepali airstrips...we managed to charter a single prop plane back to Kathmandu.
The Winter 2011 SherpaSchool.ORG Foundation Trek was a raging success...and all those involved are still mopping up tears of joy!
The Loading of the Up!
Download | Duration: 00:00:51
'Take off' video from a remote Nepali airstrip in Shangri La!
Rural Nepal from the air!
Contact me to see how you can join the SherpaSchool.ORG Spring 2011 Foundation Trek and/or subscribe to PhillMichael.com to virtually join us.
I invite you!
Until Soon
Phill =^)
PHILL MICHAEL
Expedition Leader and Summit Climber
Everest Freestyle Expedition
Secret Spot Seven Summits
SecretSpot.NET
PhillMichael.COM
SherpaSchool.ORG
SecretSpotStore.COM
PhillMichael.com
Phill Michael
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