The Halfway Point: Lifetime Experiences to Remember
It was a little easier to wake up today. Our bodies have finally begun to slowly adapt to the changing environment around us. Today, just like any day, we embarked on a journey which started with a good breakfast, followed by a drive. The road was full of twists and turns – yet the surrounding scenery was calm and quiet, making every minute of the ride worth it. During this experience, we asked ourselves the same question: Isn’t it funny that simply driving in Bhutan brings more peace and value than anywhere else in the world? Pondering this brought deep moments of reflection on our lives and made us recognize just how grateful we were to be immersed in such a unique trip.
Our first stop was the famous fertility temple, Chimi Lhakhang. The temple was renowned for blessing many families with children, drawing in couples from every place on the globe. While the monks were chanting and praying, we were handed binders containing proof of all the children who had been conceived with the help of the temple. It was astonishing to see that there were even photographs of children who all shared the same age as us.
The temple itself was breathtaking. Even now, we still don’t know how to describe its beauty. Although, the vibrant colours, gold trims and ancient structure were quite old, its appeal was timeless.
Afterwards, we walked around town and were able to shop for souvenirs. Each of the buildings showcased vibrant colours much like the temple and hand-painted phalluses, a token to honour the fertility the deities offered. At first glance, it was strange and a little uncomfortable, but after spending some time there we realized just how important and normal of a symbol it was to the local people. Back in Canada, we don’t get the opportunity to be indulged in such a diverse culture, where everything (even penises) have meaning.
The group soon wrapped up, piled back onto the bus, and we headed through the countryside, to the farmland. Â We were warmly welcomed by a woman named Aum Toebzam, who lived in a Bhutanese farmhouse, grew all her crops on that land, and held deep-rooted traditions dear to her heart. After a quick tour, the group headed off straight to milking cows. As we watched each student take their turn milking the cow, we felt deep gratitude for the simple things we enjoyed back in Toronto. It was eye-opening to see just how much work goes into a small cup of milk or butter, which we easily pick up from supermarkets in our spare time without a second glance or thought.
Soon after, Ms. Toebzam allowed us entry into her wonderful home. Inside, we saw an amazing family shrine, with colourful butter-carved structures at the altar. Our guide, Karma told us about how every meal, crop or snack is required to be offered to the shrine and the gods first, before being consumed, which isn’t common in Canada. Later, we were given the pleasure of experiencing a traditional welcoming beverage: butter tea. It was unique and although we didn’t enjoy it much, we are so glad we had the opportunity to try it. This trip is really about taking steps out of our comfort zones, and this was just another example of that.
The tea was followed by a delicious handmade meal. Each of the different dishes was grown on the land and were traditional essentials. In fact, Sam said it was one of the best meals she had ever had. We always thought McDonalds fries were the supreme food, but coming here, we realized that the best meals don’t just come from their taste. They come from hard work, dedication and love. We fully believe the meal we ate was the true definition of sustainability; nothing was wasted, processed or unhealthy. Even the snacks – dried puffed rice and corn, showcased these values.
After filming a few Tiktok’s, poorly playing darts and a quick stop at a snack store, the group winded down for the day. From today’s adventures, we arrived at one consensus: sometimes the best things come in the smallest forms – homemade meals, traditions and bumpy car rides.Â
