Local Voices – Page 2

These 8th graders kept trying to get me to call their classmates bad words, I think. July 12, 2007

The world is full of fires, and these kids, most have lost their parents. If you can share your love, your time (it) can put out some of these fires. Thich Nu Minh Tu, head monk of the Chua Du Son Orphanage housing 204 young people about 45 kms outside of Hue, Vietnam. July 2007

“Our one goal is helping these kids,” The head female monk, Thich Nu Minh Tu, said. We brought goodies and milk with money donations during this first visit. These young kids are in 6th and 7th grades. Photo: Lanier Carson

Our first visit to the Chua Duc Son Orphanage was on Thursday, July 12 ,2007. There are 204 kids there from 10 days old to 23. This sweet-pea is only six months old.

Tuan, forefront, with others during first Play Day. “We only get to play when you’re here,” one novice told Michelle. This is probably so they remain focused. Monk Minh and the others lock up the kites and other gifts and only allow them “free time” on Tuesdays from 2-4 p.m.

Quang Minh, (far left standing/glasses) English Instructor and one of the head monks of Thien Mu Temple, with dozens of his novice and beginner monks. Bri, Michele’s friend from university, helped tutor these kids for two weeks in Hue, central Vietnam.

The more you smile, the longer you live. “Bright Light,” head monk of Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue, Vietnam

On the left Hoi, 13, “He who is ticklish”. On the right ???, Tan, “Smiley”-15 (bald) and Goo, 10, with the three “freckles” on this face.

Where’s Michelle??? A million Vietnamese Dong for anyone who can find her…. Photo: L.C.

When Buddhas Smile

From July 17, 2007 Contradictions abound at the Buddhist Temple; Thien Mu Pagoda, about a 6-mile round trip bike ride from our hotel. Biking, either on a moped or bike, is not for the faint of heart. “It’s like skiing,” Bri observed. “The responsibility is on the person behind you.” This is true, but thoseContinue reading “When Buddhas Smile”