Konya tell me how to get to Mevlana?
From the imam, it was on to
Konya where we went to visit the mausoleum of Rumi, the author of Mevlana, a
dissertation in poetry about communicating with god, for any religion, not
specifically for Muslims. He was of Afghan birth in around 1200 and migrated to
Turkey. He set up his philosophy and writings in Konya and his followers used
a meditation technique where they twirled to music while contemplating and communicating with god.
These are the whirling dervishes. The whirling is done as a meditation and is
not a defined praying routine associated with a religion. It is done whenever
the dervish feels the need.
The grounds were beautiful and well-maintained. While waiting for Jackie, I happened to strike up a conversation with two college students. They were very happy to practice their English while charming the socks off an American visitor. I am sure I was the envy of all the members of our group that saw us.