3/18/25 Supper with the Spinal Shaman

We returned to the Phoenix Mall to have dinner with Dr. Mazda at an amazing restaurant called @Ishaaraindia. Even the delicious food was overshadowed by the unending, intellectually stimulating conversation. From religion to politics, rock climbing to medical schooling, no topic was off the table. A bridge of humanity, kindness, and love was being built and reinforced with every word.

The food truly was astounding and the service smooth. I’ve never had a butter chicken so rich and complex. Each dish distinctly displaying the wide range of flavors and bold tastes of India. I enjoyed practicing the little sign language I remembered while ordering from the all deaf staff. 

Sharing a meal with the man who operated on you one week earlier is a different kind of special. His deep curiosity about all facets of our lives, personal growth, and sharing knowledge extended well beyond pleasantries.

Mazda (the g-d in Zoroastrianism fighting for good) and Christ sitting back at the table shooting the shit and digging deep into the “untouchables”-philosophizing, laughing, and enjoying an array of richly decadent Indian cuisines. The feeling of old friends, away from the world. No matter the outward differences between the four of us, this table was tucked away in a distant land of collaboration, growth, curiosity and genuine care.