My Life in Orange - Tim Guest

Tim Guest writes about growing up in a commune. When he was 6, his mom joined a cult centered around the teachings of Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh. He spent his childhood wearing orange clothes and missing his mother, who was busy leading therapy groups and spreading the word of Bhagwan. Tim, or Yogesh, was raised by various adults around the commune. His story is painful as he describes being sent around the world according to the whims of his mother or wishes of the commune leaders. He spent time in England, India, Germany and Oregon and felt rootless and lost most of the time. His schooling was spotty as was his diet and care. The kids of the communes seemed to mostly take care of themselves as Baghwan taught their parents not to set limits on their children's unspoiled minds. The information about the life and rumors of Baghwan and the orange-clad "sannyasins" (disciples) in leadership positions in the organization was fascinating. Such corruption! When Baghwan was jailed, on tax evasion and entering the U.S. under false pretenses, he owned 93 (yes...93!) Rollsroyces, a couple of planes, land, gold, and jewelry. All paid for by his followers who slaved away in communes around the world hanging on this man's every word and following his every whim and notion... Yikes. It's a 6.