Gaia: Connect. Grow. Inspire. Empower.

Madness Meditation

Posted on Feb 20th, 2008 by Barbara Raisbeck

The Life from my Hair

Posted on Feb 20th, 2008 by Barbara Raisbeck

Opening to India

Posted on Jan 27th, 2008 by Barbara Raisbeck

I've finally, after a series of mishaps, made it to India. Possibly the setbacks were there to hone my patience and perseverance, to ready me for the trials to come. India is a pungent teacher... More »

Journey to India

Posted on Jan 7th, 2008 by Barbara Raisbeck

Touching the Untouchables ~ Part Two

Posted on Dec 28th, 2007 by Barbara Raisbeck

Touching the Untouchables ~ Part One

Posted on Dec 26th, 2007 by Barbara Raisbeck

It was love at first sight, the kind of (friendship) love that renews your faith in human-kind. I met Mintu through my friend Til, who had helped changed his bandages at the clinic where she... More »

Prayers for Peace at the Top of the World

Posted on Dec 11th, 2007 by Barbara Raisbeck

      I’m not sure that my legs would have carried me up the steep incline had I not had three weeks of daily walking in this hilly rocky region. My fourth visit here,... More »

The Importance of Freedom of Choice

Posted on Dec 7th, 2007 by Barbara Raisbeck

The strongest principle of growth lies in human choice  ~  Mary Ann Evans (pen-name George Eliot) When it comes to arranged marriage, some may argue that  freedom of choice , is largely a western ideal,... More »

Russell Peters on Arranged Marriage

Posted on Dec 6th, 2007 by Barbara Raisbeck

Arranging Marriage

Posted on Dec 3rd, 2007 by Barbara Raisbeck

Arranged marriage is an intrinsic part of India’s culture. Families choose their children’s spouse for them, matching compatibility criteria with horoscopes and family status. For the family of the groom, how much dowry the bride... More »