I had a last day in Bangkok. Wandered around China Town and Little India. I picked out a pair of flip flops to buy but OH SORRY, 6 pair minimum. No way.
This morning (early) I was trudging to the local bus station to catch an airport bus. The going rate for a cab to the domestic airport is $40 US or so -- definitely made the local bus a great option at $1 US. You just have to trust the bus will actually come! It did. I am now enjoying the hedonistic pleasures of Thailand's beach scene!
But this morning, I stumbled on the local Alms Ceremony. In pairs the monks stood off to the edge of the sidewalk (away from the street). Local pedestrians saw the monks; quickly went to the ubiquitous street food stalls; bought a meal and made their donation. It was amazing to watch!
In a few places individuals were 4-5 deep in line to make the donation. They stood silently and prayed; when it was their turn -- the food went in the bowl and they knelt down. The monk gave some sort of blessing and then the donor got up and went on with their day.
I was struck by how many pedestrians stopped & stood patiently to make a food donation. Making merit.
The monks got a nice selection of food & yes, the street hawkers made a bit of money!
No pictures, alas, the camera was tucked in my backpack. And it felt in a way, too intrusive. From me the Monk Stalker!!
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