“Words are a pretext.

It is the inner bond that draws one person to another,

not words.”

Rumi

“…as human beings we all need affection. 

Warm-heartedness gives rise to the self-confidence

and inner strength

that supports a calm mind.”

Dalai Lama

The timeless words from Rumi, along with the recent words from the Dalai Lama, create a word tapestry for the photo from Bhutan that is featured at the top of this blog post.  This spontaneous moment was caught in time as the foursome sat on the bench overlooking the peaceful valley below – two travelers and two young monks – not so far distant in heart – drawn to each other by the view and each other.

Ah…Bhutan, where “success” is tracked by virtue of happiness.
In thinking of a simpler life, Bhutan is ever present in memory from travels there.

Since, 1971 the country uses formal principles of GNH – that’s Gross National Happiness!  Encompassing the citizen’s health in spirit, in body, in their communities, in social interactions and in the health of the natural environment, gross national happiness is fundamental and foremost to all decision making – material growth is not the focus.

Well Be-ing.

The sweet embrace of the people, the green verdant valleys, the beautiful carved wood of the homes, the matriarchal way of life, the unabashed celebration of life and fertility, the music and temples, all combined to imbue in me a deep and abiding love for Bhutan that I will hold close forever.

Simple life indeed.

Deeply satisfying.

The gallery below holds a few more photos from Bhutan that I hope will bring you a sense of peace, beauty and simplicity…

*Slideshow will load below. Hover in the black area below the photo to pause, or go forward and back.