Dear family and friends,
A highlight in August was when Ellie's school had a Mother's day celebration. We did not know what to expect when we were asked to come. They said that the children would do a show for us. They told us to come at 8:00 AM in the morning. We thought it would be a quick show and then we would get back to the normal daily activities. But, 8:00 AM was the "stated time," not the real time.
We had to wait for an hour as the teachers and helpers prepared the food. We were entertained by a wagonload of speakers blaring music. Then, 6 Buddhist monks showed up to do a religious ceremony as a part of the morning agenda. So we were able to observe a blessing ceremony inside the school that consisted of a half-hour of chanting. Then everyone went outside and made merit by giving gifts to the monks.
Finally, 2 hours after we arrived, Ellie and her classmates came from another building where they had had make-up applied so that they would look their best for the show. After anouncements, the children all got down before their mothers and bowed to them to show their respect. Then they did a cute little dance. It was a memorable occasion.
Blessings to you.
Above: Ellie's pre-school.
Lower lft and rt: The well-deserved bow of respect.
Below Right: The Buddhist monks sat in front and led the parents in a half hour of chanting in the ancient Pali language.
Below: Another shot of Ellie making her entrance.
Right: One makes merit by giving money and food to monks. It is a part of most Buddhist ceremonies.