Soul Resting Day

Last night JiLing, Hulda and I had a small dance party on the side of the basketball courts. 

Without music, we danced Salsa and to Single Ladies. Then I showed them some dances that Americans usually do at weddings or events. The Charlie Brown, Electric Slide, Jump on It, and Jerk seem a lot funnier when done solo. I must have looked like a dancing idiot, but it made my friends laugh. I’m also surprised at how many American songs and artists they recognize. Jean likes Maroon Five, and most of my other classmates enjoy Rihanna, Pink, Beyonce, Taylor Swift, and Bruno Mars. It’s been fun to sing Karaoke on Kevin’s iPad!

Jimmy requested that I dance this entire video. Maybe I should take the time to learn it.

In the morning we took some time to learn the art of Indigo blue dye at Jingshan. It's pretty much mountain tie dye. The patterns that we created were very different because instead of just twisting, they taught us how to fold the cloth and rubber band sticks to create patterned lines. I was a bit disappointed with how white mine came out, but I had a good time doing something with my hands. 

After the short lesson we were off again to Dharma Drum Mountain. 

It's not just a mountain. It's more of a spiritual, cultural, and educational foundation. Master Sheng-yen founded it. We watched a movie about the basic principles of Ch'an Buddhism. I really agree with the ideas of trying to empty yourself to serve others. This was one of the most peaceful tours we've been on here. The guide walked at a leisurely pace and we observed the buildings in silence. After making a prayer/wish in front of a Buddha, we had a vegetarian lunch. Hooray!

I believe that 70% of Taiwan is either Buddhist or Taoist. I know that two other girls in this program are also Christian and participate in the group Navigators on their campus, but the most I've talked about religion to others is sharing that I usually pray before eating a meal. To take a moment to be thankful for the food that I'm able to eat.

 
Volunteers ring these before meals

Our last stop was Juming Museum. It was mostly an outdoor art museum, showcasing who else's art but Juming. He's been creating sculptures since he was about ten years old. Now he's almost seventy!
It was great to see how although his work progressed, his style was constant throughout his pieces.

Using government propaganda

Tai chi statues were 5 m high.

He creates them by carving Styrofoam!!! 

Then casting the model in different types of metal. Most have to be placed in the gardens by crane.

Early wooden carvings

There was even some Warhol!

After a full day, I feel tired....also rested. Introspection at Dharma Drum Mountain and walking through the art museum made me slow down. I think it's still a crazy fact for me to remember that I'm in Taiwan.