Faces to Remember

Post-script Angkor Wat

Truly a world wonder. Covers 60 sq. miles and refers to a temple complex that takes days to cover. The main temple, also called Angkor Wat was built in the 12 century by King Suravaran II during the height of the great Khmer kingdomes (go to wikipedia for lots more info). At least 10 more temples and major pieces of temples (like the elephant gate) offer wonder and amazement. Built by hand and on the backs of elephants who carried the sandstone over mountains, these temples equal the great pyramids.My favorite is the small but exquisite Banteay Srei, built in the 10th century of a sandsone that allowed tiny detailed carving of Hindu legends. Go see them-it's hard for the Cambodia Govt. to protect and preserve them. Looting and nature already diminish these great works. P.S. DOUBLE CLICK ON PHOTOS FOR FULL SIZE

re-entry

Well, I had to light the wood stove this morning, so I know I'm not in Cambodia any longer...A lot to unpack from the suitcase and from my mind. I hope to correct spellings and add photos to my blog so that I have a more complete record. Right now the US just looks like "too much," the way it always does after a trip to another place. The grocery stores are obscene, the TV nuts, the people too flabby, the news is lies...I know I will recoup some balance for my dear and wacky country. I do love Amerika, but...I take home the knowledge that we are too unaware of the lasting damage we do to others protecting our self-interest.The unexploded ordnance in Cambodia is horrifying. We are relieved that we are close to being "out" of Iraq, but we won't be-war lasts a long time. I am also very aware, after a month and half of watching Asia TV, Asia, especially China, is on the rise. The tide is shifting. Obviously, I am not an expert on either Cambodia or Vietnam, but feel heightened awareness about the many contributions and rich cultures of both places and feel so grateful that I could be a visitor. Now Marge and I will sift through our Madison Quaker experiences and make a report-which I'll post later. For now, time to get the garden in.