Buddhism, Monks and Monasteries

Yes, perhaps MS2 is trying to teach me to be more zen-like, but note the following: One of the tenents of good practice is to be positive. You will recall that a monk grabbed MS2's hand while she was walking down the streets of Thimphu.  She told our lovely French Blackfoot Buddhist guide, Nathalie, about the encounter and Nathalie said (without hesitation) that the monk saw a beautiful soul walking down the street and wanted to make a connection. MS2 also told another of our guides and you know what he said.  So which version did MS2 report to the world?  Hmmmmmm. I'm thinking she needs more mindful practice.

   Nonetheless, I have never doubted for a moment that MS2 is more spiritual than I.  Until today, that is.  Today we climbed to Tiger's Nest Monastery, the holiest place in Bhutan. While there we were invited to test our spirtuality.  The test involves closing your eyes, walking toward a rock with a small hole in the face and placing your thumb in the hole.  Our entire group lined up, each hoping to prove to the group that he or she was the most spiritual of all.

   Thumbs went everywhere, but not into the hole...until yours truly had her turn.  Eyes closed, two steps forward, thumb directly into the hole.  Everyone gasped and looked at me with freshly respectful eyes, except for MS2 who shouted, "She probably had her eyes open!"

MS1