Day 3 of the Zen of Spirit journey in Japan with John Morton continues with the practice of breathing in and breathing out and holding our focus in the present. We experience many opportunities to just be here now — at Benesse House on Naoshima Island, at Ritsurin Park in Takamatsu, and at our hotel and bath house in the hidden Iya Valley.
You may be wondering what kind of travelogue this is that speaks to you in the present, maintains a simplicity of description, and asks you to observe for yourself.
In Japan, beauty and simplicity abound.
On this Zen of Spirit journey, everything is designed to bring us into the precious presence — here in this moment. Let’s be present, shall we?
Our accommodations at Benesse House on Naoshima Island are exquisite. The natural surroundings are like heaven on Earth.
The interiors are an artist’s dream. Observe the beauty here.
As we gather on the docks, hear the sparkling laughter, see the satisfied smiles.
A quick boat ride brings us to the city of Takamatsu. A walking adventure through the city — clean, crisp and clear. We enjoy a stroll through the streets, see shops and gas stations. Notice the manhole covers that are artwork in themselves.
Enter Ritsurin Park — a special spot of beauty and one of the best landscape gardens in Japan. John Morton leads us on a peace walk as a medley of inspiring music fills our headphones.
Bliss, beauty, serenity. Then, exuberant joyful school children show us the true essence of the park. Observe their faces — such happiness!
John Morton and we travelers bless the park, place the Light, plant our loving here.
A train and bus ride to the hidden Iya Valley. The Haiku of the Day from Linda Searle:
Breathing in and out
narrow road climbs to the sky
beauty surrounds all.
Our hotel and bathhouse are Japanese style. We bathe in hot springs, dress in kimono, dine on food prepared with much loving and caring. Food is art and art is food.
John Morton shares with us, answers our questions, and blesses us before we sleep. And the journey continues…
