What happens with your body when you eat 300 times at Orient Express? And what happens with the mind? I ate 300 times at Orient Express and these are my findings:
Day 1: I don’t know what to choose, so many options. The woman behind the counter gets impatient after 2 seconds. Bami? Rice? Bami? Porc? Chicken? PORC??!? RICE?!?!. They just hand me a box. Taste is OK. Portion is BIG.
The guy next in line tells me: the menu never changes! Say the first thing that comes to mind… I say: do people ever change?
Lesson #1 : “There is nothing more dreadful than the habit of doubt. Doubt separates people. It is a poison that disintegrates friendships and breaks up pleasant relations. It is a thorn that irritates and hurts; it is a sword that kills. ” – Buddha
Day 100: After a good meal, I feel tired: the mono-sodium glutamates start kicking in. I wish I could take a nap. I wonder: How can you enhance the taste of life?
Lesson #2 “The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly. ” – Buddha
Day 130: There’s a Dutch guy working there and he gives cheap-ass portions. Don’t blame him! He’s new. Just to be sure: here’s how to order rice in Chinese (which is not a language Google!) according to google translate: 我可以點一份米飯嗎？
Lesson #3: “However many holy words you read, However many you speak, What good will they do you If you do not act on upon them?” – Buddha
Day 290: For every plastic box you buy, a baby whale dies (sad but true). And I just found one on the beach! (A plastic box I mean). Sorry climate! Sorry nature! I wish I was more grateful!
Lesson #4: “If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole life would change. ” Buddha
Day 300: 300 days of Orient Express. And I am still here. I am here. Those words are all that can be said and all that there is to be said. Enlightenment is just one block away. Whether you chose porc, chicken or vegan: inspiration lies within. Go now, and enjoy your learnings:
Lesson #5: “Everything that has a beginning has an ending. Make your peace with that and all will be well.” – Buddha