I'm in a Chiang Mai peace of mind.

A postcard from Northern Thailand where the world seems to slow and there's an invitation to be present.

I ran this morning. For the first time in a long time: past lines of monks leaving their temples with their alms bowls tucked against their hip; past the hum of morning markets where woman displayed freshly cut mangoes and mangosteen; past teens huddled with iced drinks in cafes with their backs against the sting of the early sun.

I've stopped at the Kalm Market. It's a modern crafts museum in the city's old town not far from my hotel. I want to write and @leaflet.pub is the top notch mobile way to do that.

My days in Chiang Mai have been spent in some the dozens and dozens of Buddhist temples that dot the city.

In the afternoon, you can head to Wat Prah Singh and hear the monks in the ornate temple chanting blessings to the Buddha, the teachings, and the community. An imposing gold statue of the great teacher looks upon the holy men. A cool breeze makes its way in through the Hall's tall windows.

Image: Faithful place thin stickers of gold leaf onto a Buddhist statue at Wat Chedhi Luang. The act comes with prayers of hope while the gold represents the Buddha's goodness.

I discovered Buddhism about a decade ago. Having grown up in a Catholic family, the idea I would learn or appreciate another religion was laden with treachery and guilt.

Buddhism doesn't come with much of the complicated expectations of loyalty and devotion.

The Buddha himself, if you believe the ancient texts, wasn't that interested in Buddhism either! Well sort of... He referred to religion as a raft to get across a raging river. When you get to the safe shore, you leave the raft behind. Faith (perhaps Buddhism) is the safe vessel to help you get to the ultimate truth, peace and acceptance in a world so full of suffering. When we find peace and joy-- it won't be the religion that matters. That is merely the raft.

Buddhist scripture isn't the reason for my post though, and my oat milk latte is finished.

It's time for me to walk back to my hotel, in the heat of the day. I'll meet my partner and we'll walk again to find a local restaurant here inside the historic walls that once fortified the city.

We'll be more mindful doing it.