Adventuring brings up the unexpected.   It takes us out of our comfort zone and offers opportunity for greater self-exploration and understanding.  As I arrived into Cuzco airport, the ancient spiritual capitol of Peru, the joyful and excited faces of my unofficially adopted Peruvian children, Teresa and Fredy Conde, greeted me.  Teresa was the first Peruvian I met when I began my adventures here in 2000.  Her welcoming smile was as bright as it was then.

This time she is six months pregnant, carrying twins.  Fredy is my Peruvian tour guide and adopted son.  I encouraged them to form a tour business and now Andes Journeys is flourishing.  I entered their lives following the early passing of their mother and am regarded by them as their spiritual Mom. I am proud to be the godmother of Teresa’s delightful five-year old daughter Camilla.  

Being immersed in this family, experiencing their love and warmth, and being privileged to spend some hours with Fredy’s one day old baby daughter, born the day after I arrived, has allowed me the opportunity to ponder upon the value of family.

I see how each family member is a reflection of a different aspect of self and, by learning to value, accept and honour each family member for their teaching we have the opportunity to reconnect these aspects within ourself.  This enables wholeness and love.

I feel very fortunate indeed to have families in four different countries of the world.  Australia is my home and my family there are unconditionally supportive.  Some do not understand the work I do, nor have the desire to do so, however they respect and love me for who I am.  This warms my heart. My son married an American girl in the early 1990’s and has lived in USA since then.  He and his wife have two daughters and I will be visiting them for Christmas.   Within a few days I will be connecting with a group of North American indigenous elders and reuniting with my Bolivian adopted family.   And, through internet technology, am connecting a global family.

I see clearly how valuable is my connection to each of you.  My heart feels so full as I appreciate the opportunity to expand my family.


Blessings and love to all,
Ashtara