Returning to blogging soon, but I'm in the midst of a two-week break for re-organizing, hosting several special guests who I'm really looking forward to seeing---some old friends and my Florida cousin are coming to town, and this week to enjoy the three days of festivities when Amma, my Indian guru is here in NYC, including darshan (she offers hugs to thousands throughout the three day period), pujas (religious ceremony), live music, chanting monks, clothing & jewelry bazaar, vegetarian Indian food, and Devi Bhava.

Attending Amma darshan is a fascinating, internationally flavored experience. No cameras are permitted, so I can't share it in photos, but to give you a few highlights, so far I sat next to a woman who flew in from Paris (where Amma also tours), watched darshan taking place while Hindus intermingled with people from many religions and cultures, and while Voices of Unity, a large choir from Unity Church in Manhattan simultaneously stood behind Amma singing some rousing gospel songs after the swamis did a round of bhajans (devotional music). I even saw Iggy Pop milling around.

If it sounds like something you'd like to try out, it costs nothing to attend, and Amma is probably coming to a town near you. Here's a link to the North American part of her annual world tour.