So there I was, sat on the ground in front of a structure, taking some photos (more of this later). Suddenly, there appeared a monk, walking in my general direction.
As he got closer, he started walking in my specific direction. This was a special moment; a representative of Theravada Buddhism was about to interact with me. After years of contemplation of the mysteries, what deep, insightful messages would he impart to me? Would my life be changed forever, would I tread a different path after our meeting?
He stood over me, and what happened next will live forever in my memory. So I may share with you this moment of awakening, I will try and record exactly what happened below:
He said: Ah farang!
And then whipped out his tablet and took a photo of me.
It was an instance so profound I was at a loss how to react. The correct response would have been to shout “ah, monk!” and to then stick my camera in his face. Instead, and to my lasting regret, I did the Thai thing and gave him a wai.
An undoubtedly spiritual experience.
Comments 🔗
2015-06-22| Ray saysHe walked straight passed me and didn’t so much as blink! Maybe still overawed from his previous encounter with “The Silver Surfer”
2015-06-22| Spike saysProbably thought “there’s old Rick(ety) Knees; he is long past redemption”.
2015-06-22| Ray saysI was indeed engaged in adjusting my innovative attire which, as you say, may have caused some alarm!
2015-06-23| John Doran saysMaybe it was Sutip