The Land of Happiness: Reflections on a Journey

Book excerpt: Through language rich in descriptive imagery and thoughtful reflections, Lindsey Arnold conveys what daily life was like for her family while living and volunteering in The Land of Happiness, the Kingdom of Bhutan. She describes sacred sites where it is possible to witness such miracles as water emerging from stone, levitating statues and weeping paintings. She also describes her family's personal miracle-the adoption of a Bhutanese boy. More than a travel memoir, this is a guide for a spiritual journey about facing fears, letting go of control and embracing the unfolding of life. Included is a collection of original parables about abundance, awareness and compassion. Written from a perspective enriched with an inter-religious faith and a background in philosophy, this book presents not only a glimpse of Bhutanese Buddhist culture and Himalayan landscape, but also a look at a few of the spiritual lessons (blessings) that can be received on the path to finding happiness.