"Warrior Training; A Journey of Synchronicities"

Over the past year, I've explored deeper into my meditation practice and started a journey of self-discovery.    The sacred temples, the philosophy and teachings, I have only read about in books, scrolled endlessly online, and listened to in podcasts and audiobooks. I’m always seeking to expand my understanding. Every book is a new discovery that fuels my curiosity and the desire to learn more.   

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I never anticipated that our Kung-Fu training trip to China with my family and Kung-fu school, would turn out to be an experience that would deepen my spirituality.

I find myself sitting inside a small cave where the Buddha meditated for seven years, standing in the oldest Buddhist temple, engaging in sacred ceremonies, and sharing meals and meditation sessions with the monks. It feels like the universe orchestrated this, leading me to the exact places to progress towards my spiritual journey.  

My Shaolin journey begins with a strenuous hike in the ancient mountains of Zhengzhou, China.  My boys and I; well maybe just me, is facing a physical and mental endurance challenge. This is no ordinary hill—it's a steep terrain with sliding rocks, uneven steps, and sharp gravel, providing a difficult near impossible quest. Throughout the trip, our Sifu (Kung-Fu teacher) shares many of his personal stories,  including the endless hours he spent on this mountain in particular, during his training as a young warrior. He shares that the ascent must be completed within thirty minutes or they would have to start again. He describes how his knees is covered in blood, skin peeling off from the sharp gravel, trying to make time. I can’t imagine the pain, the trauma it’s causing him without my heart breaking into pieces. I am in awe of his resilience and perseverance. 

 I run everyday, I feel in shape and healthy for an adult;  but it still took me over an hour just to get to the top.  My kids are a lot faster and waited for us at the top. I would have not been able to survive if the 30-minute rule had been enforced. 

 At the top of the hill, a massive, gold and white Buddha statue stands. And as you look out into the horizon, you see the lush greenery miles out; a breathtaking view. You can see the starting point of the trail from the top and it brings a great sense of accomplishment seeing the majestic mountain you have conquered.  I felt like I was on top of the world! 

But it doesn’t end there…

On the way up, lies the ancient and mythical Bodhidharma Cave. This cave embodies centuries of spiritual history and serves as a beacon for introspection. Legend has it that Bodhidharma, a revered figure in Zen Buddhism, meditated in this cave for nine years!

Pilgrims and practitioners of Buddhism are drawn to the Bodhidharma Cave as a place of inspiration and pilgrimage. It encapsulates the essence of Buddhist practice—introspection, mindfulness, and the quest for enlightenment. The story of Bodhidharma and his cave reinforces the idea that true wisdom arises from within, and through contemplation, individuals can attain insights that contribute to their spiritual growth and understanding of the world that connects us all.

Recognizing that these experiences are not chance encounters but synchronicities aligned on my spiritual path fills my heart with gratitude. 

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