133 days: Mali

This morning I experienced the profound tradition of the morning alms ceremony in Luang Prabang. As the first light of day bathed the streets in a soft glow, I joined a line of locals kneeling with offerings for the procession of orange-robed monks. It was a serene, deeply moving start to the day. While participating, I met Mali, a local teacher who regularly attends the ceremony. She explained the significance of each aspect of the offering and how it strengthens the spiritual bonds of the community. Mali's insights added layers of meaning to the ritual that I wanted to capture in my sketches. Her calm presence and the rhythmic sound of the monks' chanting created a meditative atmosphere that I wanted to translate into my artwork. After the ceremony, Mali invited me to her nearby home for tea, where she shared stories about her students and her hopes for their future. Inspired by her dedication and the serene morning, I spent the rest of the day painting, trying to capture the tranquility and community spirit of Luang Prabang. Today was not just about observing a tradition; it was about feeling part of a community, if only for a few hours.