In the heart of Varanasi, a city steeped in spirituality and history, I found myself drawn to a gray-bearded holy man named Baba Mehdar Giri. His presence was a beacon amidst the bustling streets, and our encounter would leave an indelible mark on my understanding of travel and life.
Baba Giri had come to Varanasi to embrace the end of his life, seeking moksha or liberation, through the sacred rituals of the Ganges. As we sat together, he shared a profound insight: “God is not a statue. You have to find God in you.” This simple yet powerful statement set the stage for a deeper exploration of the impermanence that underlies all aspects of life and travel.
The first noble truth of travel: embracing dukkha
The journey of travel, much like life, is rooted in dukkha or suffering. From delayed flights to lost passports, these challenges are inevitable. However, it is our perception and acceptance of these difficulties that shape our experience. Baba Giri’s advice to “truly embrace impermanence” resonates with the teachings of the Buddha, who sought to understand the impermanence of life through his own journey.
As a travel writer, I have faced my share of displeasing experiences from food poisoning in Hanoi to a bicycle accident in Berlin. Yet, it is these very challenges that have left the deepest impressions. They remind us that the discomfort we feel is not permanent, and that embracing this impermanence can transform our perspective on travel and life.
The second noble truth of travel: letting go of attachment
Attachment to expectations and desires can lead to suffering when things do not go as planned. In Rome, I experienced this firsthand when my favorite restaurants were fully booked, and the Vatican Museums had long lines. The Buddhist idea of nonattachment is not about having a perfect trip, but about being open to new experiences and letting go of preconceived notions.
When faced with disappointment, it is essential to remember that it may be the beginning of a great adventure. As Pema Chödrön wisely noted, “When there is a great disappointment, we don’t know if that’s the end of the story. It may be just the beginning of a great adventure.” By letting go of our attachments, we can embrace the unexpected and find joy in the journey.
The third noble truth of travel: the path to a better experience
The cessation of suffering comes from eliminating attachment, craving, and ignorance. In Zagreb, I initially struggled with the city’s aesthetics and local cuisine, but I soon realized that my anger stemmed from my own expectations and attachments. By excavating these feelings and understanding their origins, I was able to let go and appreciate the city for what it was.
The Buddha taught that understanding the source of our suffering is the first step on the path to release. By applying this principle to travel, we can transform our experiences and find peace amidst the challenges we face. As the Zen proverb goes, “Let go or be dragged.” It is our choice to embrace the journey and all its imperfections.
The fourth noble truth of travel: the right way to travel
The final noble truth of travel is about being a respectful and mindful visitor. This means engaging with local cultures in a meaningful way, supporting small businesses, and being aware of our biases and judgments. In Rome, I had the opportunity to challenge stereotypes and engage in a meaningful conversation with a Filipino butcher, transcending the typical American image.
As Prince once sang, “The only love there is, is the love we make.” Similarly, the only path there is, is the path we make. By embracing the four noble truths of travel, we can become wiser, more mindful travelers, open to the spiritual awakening that comes from exploring the world and ourselves.
