Temple 1 to Temple 6
I walked from Temple 1 to Temple 6, or 35 KM or more. My feet hurt. I’m burned from the sun. I feel absolutely amazing.
There is a small sign which always points the right way through rice fields, forests, and towns. I have been lucky to meet some great people along the way.
It’s a spirit journey for me, and weaving through farmers' fields, bamboo forests, and small villages has been enlightening. The temples are the same, but the path between them makes me think and reflect.
I usually listen to music while walking everywhere, but here. I haven’t played my music, but just thought about my past, my present, and my future.
Along the way, local Japanese people have given me free water and tea. They greet me with huge smiles and kind faces. They only speak Japanese to me, but I feel warmth from them. I’ve now gotten into the habit of asking to take pictures (I hate taking pictures of people because I worry I am invading their privacy).
I’m sleeping in a temple tonight (I’ll write a different post for that).
Doyo niny - even if you walk alone, there is always a spirit of others with you.