LOST WITHIN

I spent last spring studying in Rome through Loyola University in Chicago. This program organized a spring break trip to China, during which time about thirty other students and I climbed a section of the Great Wall outside of Beijing.  The vivid blue skies contrasted sharply with the dreary brown, winter landscape. Almost as soon as I began my ascent, I became overheated and quickly disrobed two jackets. Yet despite my effort, I was exhausted and sweating when I reached the top.  On my way back, I chose to lose the group and follow another path down the mountainside.  Along this path stood two or three small meditation temples.  These were open structures, similar to a gazebo.  The shade and colorful setting provided a welcome break.  This picture was taken lying on my back, looking up at the ceiling of the first temple. The bold color scheme and symmetrical patterns were hypnotic, and as a result, I stayed on the floor for quite a while, completely losing track of time.  My little sidetrack down this path was totally worth it-even if I did have to chase down the bus returning to Beijing.

-- CAITLIN JACOB