Daughter of Darjeeling she was...is

Happy to share a rare piece by Mary on this special day! 

On the eve of our daughter’s 13 birthday, I am a little nostalgic reflecting on the incredible journey of our precious girl. Oh, how time flies! It seems like only yesterday when she took her first steps and uttered her first words when we lived in Darjeeling. We could see Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain (on a clear day) from our old British bungalow. Our little girl frolicked in the garden while we drank copious amounts of glorious Darjeeling tea.

When a child is born in Darjeeling, everyone comes to meet the child and bestow blessings upon them. Family, friends, neighbors, Buddhist lamas, Hindu priests, Catholic priests, and almost complete strangers welcome this new child into the community. So much joy is shared on the arrival of a new baby, especially the first one. I was deeply moved by the outpouring of affection for our daughter.

As I reflect on all this kindness, it warms my heart to this day. Although I have not lived in Darjeeling for 10 years, it will always hold a special place in my heart. People there always make time for each other. There is ALWAYS time for tea and conversation. The pace of life is slower and people value relationships above most things. I sorely miss those leisurely days! However, every time I have a sip of Darjeeling tea it takes me right back there and I feel the warmth run through by body and soul.

My wish for you is to find your happy places and go there. Celebrate the people in your life. Try to find the time to connect. Now, I shall go bake a cake! Stay well.