Friends and Family
This morning, July 12th I leave for San Francisco California, and from there I head north towards Redwood Valley where I will stay at the Buddhist Monastery Abhayagiri for a week. Around July 19th I take a bus to Claremont, where a friend Niran will pick me up and we'll travel to another Buddhist Monastery named Wat Metta, where I stay for 3 weeks. This time I am investigating each monastery to figure out which one I wish to ordain and spend the next five years training.
The things I will be observing are the teachers, the teachings, the practice of the other monks, and the interaction with the community and lay supporters. I visited Wat Metta in April for
about 10 days, and had a wonderful time. The other people that were staying were wonderful, the grounds were peaceful, the meditation hall was very inspiring, and it is amidst an avocado orchard and I love avocados. Taylor, who has visited Abhayagiri, paints quite a different
picture than life at Wat Metta. Abhayagiri is more involved with the Lay Supporters who come and visit, like the monks work alongside and are available to talk a lot of the day, and the lay
supporters follow a more structured schedule than at Wat Metta, who offers 7 hours of free time
every day to visitors and keeps the monks basically completely segregated from the lay people.
Abhayagiri also practices going to the nearby town every week for alms round, which is really cool, keeping with the tradition established over 2500 years ago. Also they have an
all night sit twice a month, where the monks and lay supporters may stay up in the meditation hall and meditate until 3 in the morning, and then chant. Thats a really big, I've tried all night sits before and haven't been successful; but if there was the support I'm sure it would be a different story, and it would be a very beneficial practice. I am ordaining as a Buddhist Monk because there is nothing more I would rather do. I get asked the question a lot WHY and to better explain here is a summary of the path I've taken since highschool.
After highschool I was left without structure and seeking something worthwhile and meaningful to do with my life. The first thing I did was try to leave the area, I associated this area with the discontentment I felt with life. I got to Lubbock, Texas, and went to rest at Jono's dad's for for a night, the next morning I was told I was being sent home.
So back home I still had a sense of discontentment but I realized that it wasn't caused by the area I was in, it was something inside. So I started trying more spiritual practices such as Yoga and Fasting. Each had their own benefits but neither offered a lasting sense of contentment or fulfillment. Yoga made the body feel good, but I had to do it sometimes twice a day, and the actual practice became very ritualistic and not really enjoyable to maintain a sense of physical
wellbeing. The fasting was trying to purify the body, rid it of all the impurities found in food, and let it return to it's natural perfect state. This was the wrong view I had at the time, and didn't offer an end, just imbalancing of the mind, and weakness of the body. Meanwhile I was working at the Centerville Cafe, saving money and feeling pretty worthless.
While walking in the woods one day a friend Liz mentioned Ayahuasca, which I had read about years before in a very inspiring book called Breaking Open the Head. She said this Amazonian sacred drink releases a chemical in the brain that is released at the time of physical death.
This intrigued me, as it sounded like a viable way of finding out more about why I was here. So I bought ingredients and prepared some; this experiment ended in failure. Still determined I searched Ebay and came accross a CD being sold by someone who also offered retreats to Peru,
to live with a Shaman in Iquitos. I went to Peru for 7 weeks, and drank Ayahuasca about 14 times. I studied with Don Juan and received so much healthy guidance. Returning to the US I followed the advice of Carlos, the person who ran the retreat, and I sat a Free 10 Day Vipassana Meditation Course, and found something I had been looking for all along. I was amazed at how just sitting and meditating brought about such radical changes and experiences. I sat another course before returning to Peru for 4 months. During this time I studied the science of healing with Don Juan. He taught the science of life, and how to live in harmony with nature. I loved most of what he taught, but couldn't accept one thing: that humans cannot be perfect. It was this reason that ultimately helped me make the decision not to return to Peru. I spent the summer in Massachusetts sitting and serving at the Meditation Center. Cleaning up the mind, and really
living life in a way I had been craving for so long, purely, and harmlessly. I spent about 6 months sitting, serving, part time managing, and administrating retreat centers in MA, IL, and TX.
However in IL I was told by Barry, the head of the East Coast Meditation Centers that I was not a monk, and was practicing like a monk, and this is not the place to practice as a monk. So I decided to take the next logical step on this path and visit a monastery. I visited Wat Metta (www.mettaforest.org) and found a place that really felt like home. Great people with big hearts, a teacher that offers guidance and teachings, and a whole way of life that follows the Buddha's teachings, which I had found to be identical to my own heart.
Why become a Buddhist monk?
The reason for ordaining is to reach that state of perfection by refining and refining the actions of body, speech, and mind. Developing the virtue and abandoning the craving, aversion, and ignorance. To attain Nibbana, a state free of wanting, a state of complete happiness, a state of utter completion. To continue the tradition of the elders, to maintain the practice in it's purity, and convey pure Dhamma and inspire others, wearing the brown flag.
How long are you going to be a monk?
I intend to ordain for the entire life, but if at any time I can de-robe
Why not a Catholic or Christain Monk?
The teachings and practices are completely different from religion to religion, and so is the monastic life. A Buddhist Monk or Bhikkhu, is a freely available therapist, a psychologist, and religious teacher.
Bhikkhus practice meditation, and don't practice any sort of prayer; you are your own savior, and all the work is up to you to do. I'm not ordaining because I want to escape, or just simply think being a Buddhist monk is cool, I am ordaining as a Buddhist monk because I practice that way of life, and find the benefits in practicing.
So I leave in less than 15 minutes. Thank you all for the wonderful relationships. Mom will help ensure email messages reach me and email updates as to where I am staying, email your addresses if your interested in letters or books.
Love
Josh
Monday, May 11, 2009
March 2007
Greetings brothers and sisters
I am seeking to Ordain in the Thai Forest Bhikkhu tradition, at the Metta Forest Monastery nearby San Diego California. After much searching, the path is clear, and taking robes is the next natural step for me at this step of the path. The reasons for this decision, to take up the livelihood of a Bhikkhu (a disciple of the Buddha), is 3 fold.
Everything in the worlds of mind & matter is impermanent and constantly changing, no thing is permanent. From the largest planets themselves to the smallest sub atomic particles, all things arise & pass away. The closest means of developing this insight is within our own bodies, observing as sensations & thoughts arise and pass and how a lasting state of contentment or ease is non existent as long as this constant change is going on.
We consider ourselves as this body, this mind, or a combination of the two. There is also a common belief of a permanent self or soul that remains eternal. But using the faculty of awareness one may begin to dissect this "self." One observes this body is just a conglomeration of parts, bones, blood, tendons, pus, spleen, lungs, heart, etc. For conventional purposes we call this assembly a body, just as we call tires, axle, motor, seats, steeringwheel, etc. a car. There is nothing solid about any of it, each component is composed of cells, and atoms, and One may continue going deeper and deeper until arriving at the Truth that these too are arising and passing, composed of wavelengths, vibration. This physical structure is not I. One investigates the mind. Thoughts arise & pass, impermanent so there is no permanence in thought. The calm quiet mind is just an absence of thought. In deep meditation when none of the sense organs, eyes, ears, mouth, skin, tongue, and mind, are reacting there is the absence of imput and no sense of I at all. Who witnesses the tastes, the sounds, sights, smells, the feelings, and thoughts; "this must be the "soul"?" Using the faculty of awareness One may dissect this "consciousness": when a sense object comes in contact with a sense organ a process occurs; a sensation arises on the body, an evaluation is given (good or bad), the mind reacts (craving or hating), and consciousness arises. Each sense door has its own consciousness, arising and passing as contact occurs, no permanence. So exploring the Truth with One's own experience One may realize the absence of self, simply a bunch of arising and passing phenomenon clung to as I.
Realizing there is no self One may realize what suffering is. Clinging to anything that arises and passes causes great misery. Dukkha. This is evident from the grossest levels to the subtlest. Clinging to money, one feels like protecting it, worrying about loosing it, so tense. Clinging to sensual taste, one wants more and more, always craving more and more pleasant, less and less unpleasant, always discontent. Clinging to pleasant body sensations one is bound to be unbalanced, as it constantly changes without Ones control. Clinging to self, as there is nothing truly permanent there, this is bound to result with Dukkha.
What comes to heart, is that doubt or the resentment may arise claiming the absence of I or self. Know the Truth: there is only the Law, the Dhamma, this harmonious goodness resonating throughout every corner of the universe. Going against this law, this nature, creates the ignorance, the misery, the apparent dischord found in the world. Disharmonious thoughts and actions are the cause of any discontent, or unsatisfactoriness. The result of the ignorance is the continuation of ignorance, by going against the law, unknowingly. It's like a burning river flowing towards the ocean. The river is naturally moving toward the ocean, but so many individuals are trying to walk upriver, so much difficulty, so much burning, misery. And not only walking up river, but competing, and running, and pushing, to go further and further away from the cool, calm and quiet ocean. Heading "upstream" is because of ignorance, ignorance believing that there is a point up river that One may arrive at and call the "top." However, there is no end, there is just an endless cycle, fueled by ignorance, by craving. To come out of this cycle, to come out of the burning river, One walks the path as taught by the Buddha. We practice the Vipassana meditation technique he taught, to turn inside and realize this truth for ourselves. Seeing for ourselves, oh when this thought of this nature arises, this sensation arises on the body. Through experience one becomes more and more aware of the Law, and with wisdom comes out of the ignorance to do what is unwholesome. Walking the path, abstaining from the Unwholesome, performing what is Wholesome, practicing the Law, One comes in line with the law. The life becomes harmonious, and peace and contentment is enjoyed in this very life. The beauty of the Path, is that there is benefit in the beginning, benefit in the middle, and benefit at the end. Every step of the way, if One practices correctly there is tangible benefit; not to be experienced after death, not to be intellectualized and questioned "is this benefit"? But actually experienced, with undeniable Truth. Practicing seriously, as the Buddha intended, One may reach Nibbana in this very life. This is the most natural state, the state of contentment, the state free of craving. To arrive at this state, One must put forth the effort, to bring the thoughts, speech, and physical actions into harmony with the natural law. This is done by walking the Noble 8 -Fold path as taught by the Buddha, the fully enlightened One, who realized this law, realized this nature inside himself, and out of compassion shared this path. So back to the Self concept. Think about the planets, they move so orderly, the order is even measured, by units we call time. They are certainly very orderly in nature, very much following the Law, even seeing pictures of them is so calming, and peaceful. To walk the path, to align to the Order, One also experiences this very same calm, within oneself. Instead of the disorder, the craving this, hating that; there is just equinimity, and wisdom. There is peace, knowing the law, knowing the order, and Knowing the Truth within. There are no more preferring this or that, it's all just as it is, with complete satisfaction in all, as it is all just a gift to be appreciated. There is just this Order, the bodies are made up of it, the cells, the atoms, the elements, there is order to the matter. The order to the Human Body, digestive, nervous system, etc. The weather patters, there is order, the rain, snow, etc, come about because of certain conditions, thus order. Outside, inside, there is only order. Know there is only discontent, discord, or craving, because of disorder. The ignorance, the selfishness, only exists because of Disorder. Realizing total, complete harmony, One realizes there is no I, there is only this wonderful universe, which is only the Law, the Order, the Nature, the Dhaka. I do not anticipate having access to the computer or telephone. If One wishes to contact me, please write to:
Josh Duncan
102 Alford CT
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Mom will be sure I receive any messages periodically.
In addition please feel free to visit the Metta Forest Monastery. One may stay for up to 2 weeks, initially. There is more information : www.mettaforest.org.
May All Beings, Attain Maga, Phala, & Nibbana
May All beings, Be peaceful, contented, and at ease
May All Beings, Be free from anger, hatred, and ill will
All Beings are owners of their Kamma, and will inherit its results.
With an Available Heart
Josh
I am seeking to Ordain in the Thai Forest Bhikkhu tradition, at the Metta Forest Monastery nearby San Diego California. After much searching, the path is clear, and taking robes is the next natural step for me at this step of the path. The reasons for this decision, to take up the livelihood of a Bhikkhu (a disciple of the Buddha), is 3 fold.
Everything in the worlds of mind & matter is impermanent and constantly changing, no thing is permanent. From the largest planets themselves to the smallest sub atomic particles, all things arise & pass away. The closest means of developing this insight is within our own bodies, observing as sensations & thoughts arise and pass and how a lasting state of contentment or ease is non existent as long as this constant change is going on.
We consider ourselves as this body, this mind, or a combination of the two. There is also a common belief of a permanent self or soul that remains eternal. But using the faculty of awareness one may begin to dissect this "self." One observes this body is just a conglomeration of parts, bones, blood, tendons, pus, spleen, lungs, heart, etc. For conventional purposes we call this assembly a body, just as we call tires, axle, motor, seats, steeringwheel, etc. a car. There is nothing solid about any of it, each component is composed of cells, and atoms, and One may continue going deeper and deeper until arriving at the Truth that these too are arising and passing, composed of wavelengths, vibration. This physical structure is not I. One investigates the mind. Thoughts arise & pass, impermanent so there is no permanence in thought. The calm quiet mind is just an absence of thought. In deep meditation when none of the sense organs, eyes, ears, mouth, skin, tongue, and mind, are reacting there is the absence of imput and no sense of I at all. Who witnesses the tastes, the sounds, sights, smells, the feelings, and thoughts; "this must be the "soul"?" Using the faculty of awareness One may dissect this "consciousness": when a sense object comes in contact with a sense organ a process occurs; a sensation arises on the body, an evaluation is given (good or bad), the mind reacts (craving or hating), and consciousness arises. Each sense door has its own consciousness, arising and passing as contact occurs, no permanence. So exploring the Truth with One's own experience One may realize the absence of self, simply a bunch of arising and passing phenomenon clung to as I.
Realizing there is no self One may realize what suffering is. Clinging to anything that arises and passes causes great misery. Dukkha. This is evident from the grossest levels to the subtlest. Clinging to money, one feels like protecting it, worrying about loosing it, so tense. Clinging to sensual taste, one wants more and more, always craving more and more pleasant, less and less unpleasant, always discontent. Clinging to pleasant body sensations one is bound to be unbalanced, as it constantly changes without Ones control. Clinging to self, as there is nothing truly permanent there, this is bound to result with Dukkha.
What comes to heart, is that doubt or the resentment may arise claiming the absence of I or self. Know the Truth: there is only the Law, the Dhamma, this harmonious goodness resonating throughout every corner of the universe. Going against this law, this nature, creates the ignorance, the misery, the apparent dischord found in the world. Disharmonious thoughts and actions are the cause of any discontent, or unsatisfactoriness. The result of the ignorance is the continuation of ignorance, by going against the law, unknowingly. It's like a burning river flowing towards the ocean. The river is naturally moving toward the ocean, but so many individuals are trying to walk upriver, so much difficulty, so much burning, misery. And not only walking up river, but competing, and running, and pushing, to go further and further away from the cool, calm and quiet ocean. Heading "upstream" is because of ignorance, ignorance believing that there is a point up river that One may arrive at and call the "top." However, there is no end, there is just an endless cycle, fueled by ignorance, by craving. To come out of this cycle, to come out of the burning river, One walks the path as taught by the Buddha. We practice the Vipassana meditation technique he taught, to turn inside and realize this truth for ourselves. Seeing for ourselves, oh when this thought of this nature arises, this sensation arises on the body. Through experience one becomes more and more aware of the Law, and with wisdom comes out of the ignorance to do what is unwholesome. Walking the path, abstaining from the Unwholesome, performing what is Wholesome, practicing the Law, One comes in line with the law. The life becomes harmonious, and peace and contentment is enjoyed in this very life. The beauty of the Path, is that there is benefit in the beginning, benefit in the middle, and benefit at the end. Every step of the way, if One practices correctly there is tangible benefit; not to be experienced after death, not to be intellectualized and questioned "is this benefit"? But actually experienced, with undeniable Truth. Practicing seriously, as the Buddha intended, One may reach Nibbana in this very life. This is the most natural state, the state of contentment, the state free of craving. To arrive at this state, One must put forth the effort, to bring the thoughts, speech, and physical actions into harmony with the natural law. This is done by walking the Noble 8 -Fold path as taught by the Buddha, the fully enlightened One, who realized this law, realized this nature inside himself, and out of compassion shared this path. So back to the Self concept. Think about the planets, they move so orderly, the order is even measured, by units we call time. They are certainly very orderly in nature, very much following the Law, even seeing pictures of them is so calming, and peaceful. To walk the path, to align to the Order, One also experiences this very same calm, within oneself. Instead of the disorder, the craving this, hating that; there is just equinimity, and wisdom. There is peace, knowing the law, knowing the order, and Knowing the Truth within. There are no more preferring this or that, it's all just as it is, with complete satisfaction in all, as it is all just a gift to be appreciated. There is just this Order, the bodies are made up of it, the cells, the atoms, the elements, there is order to the matter. The order to the Human Body, digestive, nervous system, etc. The weather patters, there is order, the rain, snow, etc, come about because of certain conditions, thus order. Outside, inside, there is only order. Know there is only discontent, discord, or craving, because of disorder. The ignorance, the selfishness, only exists because of Disorder. Realizing total, complete harmony, One realizes there is no I, there is only this wonderful universe, which is only the Law, the Order, the Nature, the Dhaka. I do not anticipate having access to the computer or telephone. If One wishes to contact me, please write to:
Josh Duncan
102 Alford CT
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Mom will be sure I receive any messages periodically.
In addition please feel free to visit the Metta Forest Monastery. One may stay for up to 2 weeks, initially. There is more information : www.mettaforest.org.
May All Beings, Attain Maga, Phala, & Nibbana
May All beings, Be peaceful, contented, and at ease
May All Beings, Be free from anger, hatred, and ill will
All Beings are owners of their Kamma, and will inherit its results.
With an Available Heart
Josh
May 2006 ~ Investigating the Universal Quality
Investigating the Universal Quality
Every One contains the Universal quality of Truth. Truth is a personalknowing of the reality within and world without. This Quality is the sourceof all beings existence, creating the life experience according to theawareness of Truth. One may feel safe and secure as long as One lives inharmony with Truth, for this is Life's highest purpose. Every action Onemakes should be with the understanding of Truth, and then it is a Rightstep. Every Right step One makes guides One into deeper insight of theTruth and the Self. One should treasure Truth above all else, for Truthalone takes One to the final destination; an eternal state of Knowing, astate of complete contentment, and ease.Along the path One relates with others, other Ones walking the path ofTruth. In relating with others One should recognize the Universal Quality,and convey only Truth and honesty. Relationships handled in this Way areSelf reflections, and a means for gaining insight into the Self and aninvaluable means for Investigating the Universal Quality .
Joshua Mathew Duncan
Every One contains the Universal quality of Truth. Truth is a personalknowing of the reality within and world without. This Quality is the sourceof all beings existence, creating the life experience according to theawareness of Truth. One may feel safe and secure as long as One lives inharmony with Truth, for this is Life's highest purpose. Every action Onemakes should be with the understanding of Truth, and then it is a Rightstep. Every Right step One makes guides One into deeper insight of theTruth and the Self. One should treasure Truth above all else, for Truthalone takes One to the final destination; an eternal state of Knowing, astate of complete contentment, and ease.Along the path One relates with others, other Ones walking the path ofTruth. In relating with others One should recognize the Universal Quality,and convey only Truth and honesty. Relationships handled in this Way areSelf reflections, and a means for gaining insight into the Self and aninvaluable means for Investigating the Universal Quality .
Joshua Mathew Duncan
Peru ~ May 2006
Warm Greetings my esteemed friends and family!
I am returning home on the 9th of May. This trip has been an incredible learning experience, and the Jungle expedition made me aware that I have just embarked on this journey.
I must express my thanks to all of you, who have given support and love which has kept me strong during the ups and downs. You always have a friend, you always have my support, you are never alone. Please feel free to email me anytime with questions for Juan, or myself. We are able to help with phsycological problems, physical problems, spiritual, anything from the most simple to the most dire and complex. The life of a curendero is that of a helper.
In the near future we would like to bring Juan to the area and hold a few cerimonies, and allow him to give explainations on curenderismo, and the science. As the time draws nearer I will make the event known, there are many oppurtunites to help organize, provide, or volunteer.
May All Beings Be Happy
Peace Light and Love
Josh
I am returning home on the 9th of May. This trip has been an incredible learning experience, and the Jungle expedition made me aware that I have just embarked on this journey.
I must express my thanks to all of you, who have given support and love which has kept me strong during the ups and downs. You always have a friend, you always have my support, you are never alone. Please feel free to email me anytime with questions for Juan, or myself. We are able to help with phsycological problems, physical problems, spiritual, anything from the most simple to the most dire and complex. The life of a curendero is that of a helper.
In the near future we would like to bring Juan to the area and hold a few cerimonies, and allow him to give explainations on curenderismo, and the science. As the time draws nearer I will make the event known, there are many oppurtunites to help organize, provide, or volunteer.
May All Beings Be Happy
Peace Light and Love
Josh
Peru ~ April 2006
Warm Greetings Esteemed Friends and Family
Small update today, but many new photos have been added to the Peru album http://photos.yahoo.com/paravach.
I will be drinking Ojae with the new moon on the 21st. This will be my last and I anticipate strongest Ojae purge this trip. Ojae is the strongest completely natural purgative available, it is used to treat cancer, aids, and problems that are named uncurable. It cleans your blood, bones, your stomach, and internal organs.
I am also going to be taking medicinal baths, prepared with certain herbs and sensual scents, which are said to be very cleansing and purifying spiritually.
The 24th we are heading to the old Jungle camp for 7 days. Then I will have about a week left in Iquitos to spend with the family, and celebrate the youngest child´s birthday.
I look forward to seeing all of you very soon.
Peace Light and Love
Josh
Small update today, but many new photos have been added to the Peru album http://photos.yahoo.com/paravach.
I will be drinking Ojae with the new moon on the 21st. This will be my last and I anticipate strongest Ojae purge this trip. Ojae is the strongest completely natural purgative available, it is used to treat cancer, aids, and problems that are named uncurable. It cleans your blood, bones, your stomach, and internal organs.
I am also going to be taking medicinal baths, prepared with certain herbs and sensual scents, which are said to be very cleansing and purifying spiritually.
The 24th we are heading to the old Jungle camp for 7 days. Then I will have about a week left in Iquitos to spend with the family, and celebrate the youngest child´s birthday.
I look forward to seeing all of you very soon.
Peace Light and Love
Josh
Peru ~ April 2006
Warm Greetings my esteemed friends and family!
Much has transpired since the last update. We now have a new puppy, Rocky, Juan had his 55th Birthday, two Finlandeans are now staying with us, and very soon my friend Justin and his girlfriend will be arriving.
What is Ayahuasca? Ayahuasca is a very ancient medicine made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and chacruna leaves. The medicine has been used for hundreds of years by many different cultures in Peru, Brazil, and Equador and it is beleived to have been brought from another planet to help teach the different civilizations. Ayahuasca is a purgative, cleaning the physical body and is also a natural means of accessing the spiritual dimension. Ayahuasca engages one´s intent, you may drink to learn, and it is a teacher, you may drink to be healed, and it is a healer, you may drink to see into other worlds, and it is a window into the unknown. Most importnatly ayahuasca is a spirit, an intelligence, and presence. Ayahuasca teaches the Science of Life, how to live naturally and in universal harmony.
What is a Curendero? A curendero is a healer. In Juan´s case, a curendero a person that doesn´t use rituals or props, he heals with his hands, with his chacappa, and with his mapacho cigarette. He is a simple man, a man with an open heart, and an abundance of love for all of life. A curendero is a doctor, a phsycologist, a dentist, an optrician, a chiropractor, a dieticean, and a pharmacist. Juan uses modern medicine as well, in combination with specific diets, and plant medicines to produce the most potent effects. Juan is what may be called a modern day curendero, he is very well traveled, and understands the customs of many different cultures. Hence he is able to help and cure ailments that range from trouble with a woman, to cancer.
We all have a very exciting oppurtunity at the moment. A peice of land in the Jungle, 55 acres, 84 Km, has become available at a very very cheap price. One of Juan´s friends is moving to Lima and wants to support the school so he is offering Juan this land for $5000 american. It includes a two story house, a river with fish and a beach. Fruit trees, vegetables and Yucca crops, and plenty of space. I emplore anyone that may be interested to lend a hand in aquiring this land. This land once aquired will not be Juan´s land, it will be all of our land. It will be a grand school, the construction of which will benefit all of man kind. You will all be more than welcome to come stay at this camp as hundreds of others have at the other camps. This is an incredible oppurtunity to help. Should you be interested in helping, please email me and we will discuss the topic further.
I will be returning to the United States in about a month from today. My funds have run short, and I wish to help bring my grandmother back into health. Juan says like drinking ayahuasca, the first stay is an introduction, the second you are familiar ayahuasca is stronger, the third is when the true teachings begin.
I had very little time, and many troubles with Juan´s digital camera, my camera power cable will be arriving tomorrow so the next update I´ll post many photos. As for now I have a picture of Mishu on the garbage can hoping to find some fish scraps.
http://photos.yahoo.com/paravach
From the depths of my heart I wish you all Peace Light and Love
Josh
Much has transpired since the last update. We now have a new puppy, Rocky, Juan had his 55th Birthday, two Finlandeans are now staying with us, and very soon my friend Justin and his girlfriend will be arriving.
What is Ayahuasca? Ayahuasca is a very ancient medicine made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and chacruna leaves. The medicine has been used for hundreds of years by many different cultures in Peru, Brazil, and Equador and it is beleived to have been brought from another planet to help teach the different civilizations. Ayahuasca is a purgative, cleaning the physical body and is also a natural means of accessing the spiritual dimension. Ayahuasca engages one´s intent, you may drink to learn, and it is a teacher, you may drink to be healed, and it is a healer, you may drink to see into other worlds, and it is a window into the unknown. Most importnatly ayahuasca is a spirit, an intelligence, and presence. Ayahuasca teaches the Science of Life, how to live naturally and in universal harmony.
What is a Curendero? A curendero is a healer. In Juan´s case, a curendero a person that doesn´t use rituals or props, he heals with his hands, with his chacappa, and with his mapacho cigarette. He is a simple man, a man with an open heart, and an abundance of love for all of life. A curendero is a doctor, a phsycologist, a dentist, an optrician, a chiropractor, a dieticean, and a pharmacist. Juan uses modern medicine as well, in combination with specific diets, and plant medicines to produce the most potent effects. Juan is what may be called a modern day curendero, he is very well traveled, and understands the customs of many different cultures. Hence he is able to help and cure ailments that range from trouble with a woman, to cancer.
We all have a very exciting oppurtunity at the moment. A peice of land in the Jungle, 55 acres, 84 Km, has become available at a very very cheap price. One of Juan´s friends is moving to Lima and wants to support the school so he is offering Juan this land for $5000 american. It includes a two story house, a river with fish and a beach. Fruit trees, vegetables and Yucca crops, and plenty of space. I emplore anyone that may be interested to lend a hand in aquiring this land. This land once aquired will not be Juan´s land, it will be all of our land. It will be a grand school, the construction of which will benefit all of man kind. You will all be more than welcome to come stay at this camp as hundreds of others have at the other camps. This is an incredible oppurtunity to help. Should you be interested in helping, please email me and we will discuss the topic further.
I will be returning to the United States in about a month from today. My funds have run short, and I wish to help bring my grandmother back into health. Juan says like drinking ayahuasca, the first stay is an introduction, the second you are familiar ayahuasca is stronger, the third is when the true teachings begin.
I had very little time, and many troubles with Juan´s digital camera, my camera power cable will be arriving tomorrow so the next update I´ll post many photos. As for now I have a picture of Mishu on the garbage can hoping to find some fish scraps.
http://photos.yahoo.com/paravach
From the depths of my heart I wish you all Peace Light and Love
Josh
Peru ~ April 2006
Warm Greetings My Esteemed Friends and Family!
I had a wonderful time in the Jungle, very relaxing and peaceful. Mishu also is doing very well, the Jungle helped tremendously in his training. The kids went back to school this past Monday. And the house continues to undergo many changes.
It rained during our hike into the Jungle, it was very refreshing, by the end of our treck we were soaked but energized. Mishu walked during the dry parts, but for the most part I carried him in my arms. The first day we were there Juan´s brother Cesar found a baby Tucan, Fauncho. Fauncho eats ripe bananas and any fruit he can get. He is really cool, and over the time we spent in the jungle he became more and more friendly, he actually sat on my shoulder during our meals. Mishu learned how to climb up and down trees, and definately became more centered and concentrated. He also responds to his name and understands the word no. I learned how to start a fire and prepare food in the Jungle. We ate rice, beans, spaghetti, salso, some fish Gabicho caught, a drink prepared from corn, and soup. The meals were all very simple, but tasty. I was unable to maintain the strict schedule required for a self instructed meditation course, but I did the best that I could, and meditated for at least 5 hours a day. The last day there, I played volleyball with the family that lives at the camp, and learned how to prepare a vegetable called Peefayo. It rained the night before we left and the trail at times had water up to our waist. It is a big change comming back to the city after being int he Jungle. The peace is all pervasive, and palpable, and in the city the dischord is unavoidable. It has become evident how important inner silence truly is, when you are surrounded by dissonance.
This past monday the kids went back to school. They have a 3 month summer break, December-March. This will be the first year they are fully prepared with all that is necessary for school. They all needed pens, pencils, erasers, notebooks, and various other items. I had brought down backpacks with me so everyone was provided for in that department. The kids leave at 7am and return at around 1pm, while Gabicho who is in secondario which is like highschool, leaves at 1pm and returns home at 6pm. The classes are all similar to the united states, there is a writing class, mathmatics, science, a language class, art, music, and a communications class. They walk about a mile to their school no matter to weather. They also do not eat while at school, so I have been preparing breakfast for them before they leave, and we usually have dinner ready at around 2-3pm.
There have been big changes in the past couple of weeks. We now have a refrigerador in the kitchen. Thanks to a donation my Dad made, we have a well with a pump. And we also have tupperwear and a place to store the food we keep in the house. The well is the biggest change, we now have drinkable water available at all times, it is no longer necessary to walk to the center of the village to fill our water jugs. We also have a much easier time washing dishes and clothing, filling the tubs with hose water, rather than bucket by bucket. We are currently finishing up rooms for guests to stay in. The living area will have toilets, and an area to bathe. The well will be connected to a very large bucket of water, that will flush the toilets, and provide water for a shower. We are all very happy with the additions to the house, and eagerly look forward to finishing the kitchet, as it is missing walls and doors.
Lastly I would like to mention a great oppurtunity that arose last week. Leonor, became aware of a house in the Bario de Florida, which is the town we begin our jungle hike in, that was for sale. She approached me, and asked if I would help her buy this land, she said it would cost 200 soles, which is the equivilent of $60. Monday I went with Gabicho to look at the land. It is an incredible area, with maybe 4 acres of land, 3 coconut trees, kimeto, and wheato trees. The house has one room, and an outdoor roofed porch area, that overlooks the town, and the Jungle. I fell in love, the area is so tranquil, and not to mention on the porch there is a wonderful freeflowing breeze. Leo wants this land for her parents, as they dont have a house in the Bario, they live at the Jungle camp. Of course I jumped at this spectacular oppurtunity, this also means that I have a place to stay in the Bario, which again the peace is palpable.
It is a wonderful thing, to help those in need. The family has no source of income, other than people donating, or poeple giving them money. The kids all need new clothes, and the kitchen remains unfinished. Every dollar helps, to put it in perspective $20 feeds a family of 12 very well, providing breakfast, and dinner, with tea and bread at night. $30 would also cover the entire cost of all the notebooks and school supplies the kids needed. If anyone would like to help the family, donate items or any money, it would greatly be appreciated. The easiest way to donate money would be to send it to my Mom so she could transfer the funds directly to me in Peru. If you wish to send items you can send them first to my mom or directly to Peru.
Karen Duncan Josh Duncan
102 Alford Ct Calle 16 de Junio
Chadds Ford PA 19317 Pje Colon No 173
Iquitos, Peru
I am working on getting more pictures, and the next update will consist more of the people. If you do make a donation rest assured I will provide much information and many pictures of the help you have provided the family.
Thank You All
Peace Light and Love
Josh
I had a wonderful time in the Jungle, very relaxing and peaceful. Mishu also is doing very well, the Jungle helped tremendously in his training. The kids went back to school this past Monday. And the house continues to undergo many changes.
It rained during our hike into the Jungle, it was very refreshing, by the end of our treck we were soaked but energized. Mishu walked during the dry parts, but for the most part I carried him in my arms. The first day we were there Juan´s brother Cesar found a baby Tucan, Fauncho. Fauncho eats ripe bananas and any fruit he can get. He is really cool, and over the time we spent in the jungle he became more and more friendly, he actually sat on my shoulder during our meals. Mishu learned how to climb up and down trees, and definately became more centered and concentrated. He also responds to his name and understands the word no. I learned how to start a fire and prepare food in the Jungle. We ate rice, beans, spaghetti, salso, some fish Gabicho caught, a drink prepared from corn, and soup. The meals were all very simple, but tasty. I was unable to maintain the strict schedule required for a self instructed meditation course, but I did the best that I could, and meditated for at least 5 hours a day. The last day there, I played volleyball with the family that lives at the camp, and learned how to prepare a vegetable called Peefayo. It rained the night before we left and the trail at times had water up to our waist. It is a big change comming back to the city after being int he Jungle. The peace is all pervasive, and palpable, and in the city the dischord is unavoidable. It has become evident how important inner silence truly is, when you are surrounded by dissonance.
This past monday the kids went back to school. They have a 3 month summer break, December-March. This will be the first year they are fully prepared with all that is necessary for school. They all needed pens, pencils, erasers, notebooks, and various other items. I had brought down backpacks with me so everyone was provided for in that department. The kids leave at 7am and return at around 1pm, while Gabicho who is in secondario which is like highschool, leaves at 1pm and returns home at 6pm. The classes are all similar to the united states, there is a writing class, mathmatics, science, a language class, art, music, and a communications class. They walk about a mile to their school no matter to weather. They also do not eat while at school, so I have been preparing breakfast for them before they leave, and we usually have dinner ready at around 2-3pm.
There have been big changes in the past couple of weeks. We now have a refrigerador in the kitchen. Thanks to a donation my Dad made, we have a well with a pump. And we also have tupperwear and a place to store the food we keep in the house. The well is the biggest change, we now have drinkable water available at all times, it is no longer necessary to walk to the center of the village to fill our water jugs. We also have a much easier time washing dishes and clothing, filling the tubs with hose water, rather than bucket by bucket. We are currently finishing up rooms for guests to stay in. The living area will have toilets, and an area to bathe. The well will be connected to a very large bucket of water, that will flush the toilets, and provide water for a shower. We are all very happy with the additions to the house, and eagerly look forward to finishing the kitchet, as it is missing walls and doors.
Lastly I would like to mention a great oppurtunity that arose last week. Leonor, became aware of a house in the Bario de Florida, which is the town we begin our jungle hike in, that was for sale. She approached me, and asked if I would help her buy this land, she said it would cost 200 soles, which is the equivilent of $60. Monday I went with Gabicho to look at the land. It is an incredible area, with maybe 4 acres of land, 3 coconut trees, kimeto, and wheato trees. The house has one room, and an outdoor roofed porch area, that overlooks the town, and the Jungle. I fell in love, the area is so tranquil, and not to mention on the porch there is a wonderful freeflowing breeze. Leo wants this land for her parents, as they dont have a house in the Bario, they live at the Jungle camp. Of course I jumped at this spectacular oppurtunity, this also means that I have a place to stay in the Bario, which again the peace is palpable.
It is a wonderful thing, to help those in need. The family has no source of income, other than people donating, or poeple giving them money. The kids all need new clothes, and the kitchen remains unfinished. Every dollar helps, to put it in perspective $20 feeds a family of 12 very well, providing breakfast, and dinner, with tea and bread at night. $30 would also cover the entire cost of all the notebooks and school supplies the kids needed. If anyone would like to help the family, donate items or any money, it would greatly be appreciated. The easiest way to donate money would be to send it to my Mom so she could transfer the funds directly to me in Peru. If you wish to send items you can send them first to my mom or directly to Peru.
Karen Duncan Josh Duncan
102 Alford Ct Calle 16 de Junio
Chadds Ford PA 19317 Pje Colon No 173
Iquitos, Peru
I am working on getting more pictures, and the next update will consist more of the people. If you do make a donation rest assured I will provide much information and many pictures of the help you have provided the family.
Thank You All
Peace Light and Love
Josh
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