Giving

Now that I know where to find alms, I need to get up between 5am and 6am to deliver the goods. When I see a line of monks, the protocol is to kneel with my offering while making sure, since I'm a woman, not to touch the monks or the monk's belongings. I have a healthy respect for tradition and culture. But at the same time, I hate being told I can't do something. Ever since I found out that women are forbidden to touch monks, I have an urge to run up and hug every orange robe that passes.

Nevertheless, there is something about the bright colored robes, the bowls near the belly, the perfect line, the early morning quiet. I'll never tire of it.