Tag Archives: Japan

Lost Without Language

Posted on March 27, 2014 by Mary Strong-Spaid

I went to Tijuana, Mexico a few times when I lived in California. Reading signs and communicating with other people was not a problem for me there, because I had a good understanding of the Spanish language. It was quite … Continue reading →

Posted in food, Photo Essay, photography, Travel | Tagged communication, Japan, Kyoto | 26 Comments

Monk with Begging Bowl

Posted on March 19, 2014 by Mary Strong-Spaid

Zen Buddhism Begging bowl in hand, practicing non-attachment— the humble monk stands. ~ms

Posted in Buddhism, Haiku, Philosophy, photography | Tagged Japan, meditation, monks, poetry, Zen | 11 Comments

Carp and Stone

Posted on March 12, 2014 by Mary Strong-Spaid

The Carp Stone (rigyoseki) at Kinkaku-ji appears to be swimming upstream against a pounding waterfall. I am told that this stone image symbolizes strength, courage, and the will to persevere even when struggling against adverse conditions. Creating circular ripples in … Continue reading →

Posted in LIfe, Nature, Philosophy, photography | Tagged fish, Japan, Kinkaku-ji, Travel, Water | 36 Comments

Byodo-In Temple — Sacred Space

Posted on September 18, 2013 by Mary Strong-Spaid

The Byodo-in temple on the island of Oahu is a beautiful replica of the original Byodo-in built in 998 AD, in the city of Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. A reflection of paradise on earth, the temple rests peacefully beneath the … Continue reading →