Kurt Archer


Amritsar: Day 1

August 24th, 2008
Topic: Spirituality| Tags: , ,
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Well I have arrived to Amritsar through the Wagha border. Last time I came through here, I paid 550 Rupees for a cab, this time I paid only Rs. 35…

So I met this actor and sufi from UK with a background from Jalunder and Pakistan. Its been great fun so far, exploring the Golden Temple; walking the narrow alley ways. Yes, it is as everyone has said it is, grand and beautiful. We sat with a Guru ji who told us all about Sikhism, and how connected to nature they are. I asked what they think of Sufism, and he responded, that because he is Sikh, he is also Sufi. Beautiful. It was just the kind of wisdom I have wanted to experience while here. 

Another amazing experience was the closing and cleaning ceremony. Hundreds of volunteers were there to help take down everything, clean everything, people we pushing and shoving to do service for the Palace. And the free food! It is a system I have never seen before, so effective, so efficient. From cleaning bins, to trays for daal and and water bowls. Everything one could ask for and more. This system needs to be documented and replicated in other place; indeed a best case practice. 

We are also staying for free at the hostels here, there is a section for foreigners here and everything. I'm planning on staying one more night before I head to Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj. All I can say now is Jai Hind!

Alternative Economy by Hamid Hannesen

August 21st, 2008
Topic: Discussions| Tags: , ,
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While I was visiting the Roshni Village in Lahore, an eco-friendly farm and school who produces the best organic bread, I met the man who started it all. He shared with us this presentation he gave at LUMS on Alternative Economy, and I wanted to share it with you all.
 
 
Presentation on Alternative Economy
by Hamid Hellmut Hannesen, Roshni Association, Lahore
 
In ancient cultures all social and economical life was influenced by the religious life. Normally there was a group of religious people, not involved in any practical work, but teaching everybody and designing all social and practical life. Worldly leaders like kings and pharaohs were part of this.

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