Outer charnal ground - Mahakala Cave

Deserted dusty road and we pass toiling laborers using rudimentary tools to chisel rock out of the quarry -- grueling backbreaking work for even the most agile. Out of the bus and into a ring of fiery heat, the sun is pounding down on us. The denizens of this barren place screaming and begging for even a rupee.

Not starving, but many appearing lame physically and impoverished spiritually. Feet connected to a holy place, energy of recognition rising in my belly we begin the long climb in the blazing sun. Dust coating our shoes, our robes, settling on our faces and in our throats.

Two guards walking with us fending off the beggars who are trying to grab at us. Light headed from the walk as we reached the top, crouching in a darkened cave, only a few butter lamps burning, chanting prayers for the destruction of obstacles.

Impermanence rampant, the taste of suffering in my mouth. Prayers complete, heading down the path. Beggars lined up as far as we could see -- hundreds and hundreds of rupee coins tossed one per beggar into the ragged skirt or beaten cup. Except the blind or unwell, where showers of blessed coins landed on each blanket.

Heruka Chakrasamvara. Charnel Ground. Mahakala Cave. The reason we are here. Fearlessness of the Bodhisattva in the face of suffering. In the face of hellish conditions. In the face of the blazing heat and fire of our own self cherishing.

Fearlessness and compassion that shields us from all suffering so that we may help others.

This is my outer experience of the charnel ground.