Daniela Sánchez Gomez RTGAmbassador As the day came to an end, we settled into our rooms, and although it was completely different from what we were used to, we felt right at home. A monk's room typically reflects tranquility and minimalism; the room was sparsely furnished with essentials for spiritual practice. There were simple bed mats that, although they looked quite uncomfortable, were very cozy and were great for a good night's rest and meditation. The walls were decorated with simple decorations with symbols and images of revered figures. There were big windows for natural light and ventilation, which fostered a close connection with the surrounding environment. We experienced a peaceful night and woke up well rested after a busy day full of great experiences. The morning after, we woke up bright and early to join the morning prayer. We walked past beautiful gardens and experienced the feeling of wearing a monk's outdoor sandals. As the prayer began, I was enlightened by the physical details of the building and the monk's routine, but also, by the feeling of peace that rushed through me. In Buddhism, meditation and prayer are two of the most important aspects. The prayer is a sacred ritual that helps set the tone for the day's spiritual practice. With palms pressed together in reverence, they receive traditional chants or prayers, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to pursue the path of awakening and seeking blessings for the day ahead. The prayer concluded with a period of silent reflection, and after that, we got a paper that described Kukai?s method of meditation. We made our way down to the communal dining area to take part in the morning meal. It was a simple nourishment meal that consisted of vegetarian dishes filled with foods like rice, grains, and vegetables. The meal is eaten in silence, focusing on each bite to appreciate what has been provided. As we all ate together, I felt grateful for the community and solidarity I felt with my peers, sharing simple joys and an amazing experience.
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