I’m overjoyed that I can start writing this blog today. My other job has kept me highly occupied. I hadn’t had time to go for a long ride on this motorbike, as I had with my prior one. This would be my first expedition trip in nearly a year, so I was looking forward to it.

We’re in February, and the weather wasn’t precisely sunny, but it wasn’t freezing at 10 degrees. Cloudy and gloomy clouds would enhance the landscape throughout the day. Today, I’d travel 310 kilometres on asphalt and scenic roads. My journey would take me to the south of Belgium.

When I began my trip, the roadways were incredibly slick. I enjoy exploring the area by taking back routes. However, the more inside roads I travel, the muddier it becomes, but I suppose that is what an adventure motorbike is designed for. Some photos:

Near Eben-Emael, I’m crossing the Belgium linguistic border. A boat lift can be found here. Four older Canal du Centre elevators were circumvented by the new Canal du Centre and are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for their architectural and historical significance. As you can see in the pictures, they are constructing a new bridge to cross.

I drove through Goffontaine. Not even two years ago, the river that runs through the community was overflowing its boundaries. The metropolis was destroyed entirely, and many families were displaced. Nature’s influence can still be seen today.
The city is still in reconstruction mode, and it is heartbreaking to see people rebuilding their houses and restoring them to their former glory.

I pass Banneux a few kilometres further on the pleasant curvy roadways. Banneux is a spot where I like to take a break and explore the source that Mother Mary has delivered to this world.

My BMW would take me to Hoei after Banneux. I’m not going to see the renowned Mur, but my ride will take me to a Tibetan monastery. Kagyu Yeunten Gyamtso Ling, a Buddhist meditation and retreat facility, is Belgium’s largest Tibetan institute.

When I arrived at the palace, I observed a large group of children playing together. There was a melodious sound, and many people were gathering. It appeared to be a celebration. Tibetan New Year, also known as Losar, is a major celebration for Tibetan Buddhists in China (particularly in Tibetan regions such as Tibet, Shangri-La, and Jiuzhaigou), Nepal, Bhutan, and India. It occurs on February 21, 2023.

The temple’s residents summoned me to their celebration. I was a little uneasy because I didn’t want to bother anyone or even be a party crasher. But the greeting was very warm, and I couldn’t resist the Darma’s gesture of drinking their wine and eating some of their cuisines out of respect.

We had a very pleasant conversation, and it was heartwarming to see people’s generosity. I thanked them and went to the sanctuary to light a fire for all the people around the globe. The text in the sanctuary describes everything.

I enjoyed the smell and the serene atmosphere of the sanctuary. Say Baba’s ancient fragrance transported me back in time. What an adventure!

It was still 100 kilometres to home, and I was enjoying every minute of it. I did appear filthy, but my BMW made me feel secure and comfortable on the road.

Today I felt fortunate. On my journey, I met some wonderful individuals and found new aspects of myself. A 310km journey that helped me see the sun.

I knew it was one of my obligations to assist others in shining their light. When I read it in the sanctuary, I discovered something fresh. We must strive to be as brilliant as the sun…

Warmth and hope to those in need! Nothing more, nothing less.

Thank you

The link to the ride:

The link to: Kagyu Yeunten Gyamtso Ling – Boeddhistische meditatie- en retraitecentra