TAMIU Reading the Globe 2023-2024

Evelyn Tovar RTGAmbassador As we wandered through the Tokyo National Museum, I found myself utterly captivated by the intricate sutra writings that adorned the walls of various exhibition rooms. Each stroke seemed to echo with ancient wisdom, a testament to the enduring preservation of knowledge across the ages. When the chance arose to partake in sutra writing during our overnight stay at Ninnaji temple, excitement surged within me, fueled by the prospect of engaging in a practice deeply rooted in tradition. As anticipation mounted throughout the morning and afternoon preceding the activity, my eagerness intensified, mingled with a sense of reverence for the art I was about to undertake. Seated in the room, surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of the temple, I eagerly awaited the materials, my heart brimming with anticipation. Drawn to its soothing and immersive nature, I departed the temple with a renewed determination to continue honing this ancient art form, knowing that each stroke brings me closer to the heart of tradition and enlightenment. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience, and I will definitely practice this further! Under the patient guidance of a temple monk, we delicately traced light gray kanji on thin sheets of paper, each stroke a testament to our commitment to preserving this ancient tradition. Focused intently on perfecting the brush pen technique, I wrestled with nervousness at the outset, my hand trembling with uncertainty. Yet, with each stroke, guided by our instructor's gentle wisdom, I grew more adept, my movements gradually gaining confidence and fluidity. The weight of the brush became familiar in my hand, and the once-daunting task transformed into a graceful dance across the parchment. A sense of accomplishment washed over me as I gazed upon my finished piece. Despite the initial trepidation, the result surpassed my expectations, a testament to the transformative power of practice and dedication. However, the experience left me yearning for more, a desire to delve deeper into the art of sutra writing, to refine my skills and unlock new depths of understanding.

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