I felt very skeptical and resistant when Susanna suggested to go on a 32-hour Amtrac adventure from Flagstaff to Chicago last weekend. But I embraced the Unknown and embarked on the endeavor at 4:15 am.

Almost immediately I felt comfortable in the 1960's train environment and realized I was about to discover a different America: Slow paced with very friendly people who took time to enjoy other people and share their stories.

Between dining car and panorama car we had plenty of time to connect with people from very different walks of life: There was Dorothy, a well-known architect well in her seventies. Together with her husband and a long standing business partner she was getting ready to plan and build a huge casino with 6 hotels in Singapore: "The rhythm of a train ride gives me deep relaxation to be ready for big challenges. My husband took the plane to Boston and agreed to wait for me for 2 days."

There is wisdom in relaxation, deeper conversations with greater insights. At home, we always find something to do and spend little time on the "Being Level".

DOING can be fast and hectic - BEING requires slower pace, inner-focused appreciation and open senses for subtle realities.

After 34 hours we were ready for the cultural riches of Chicago.

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