85 days: Veil of Incense

Today I made my way to Longshan Temple, an oasis of tranquility in the middle of the city. The partly cloudy sky cast a soft, muted light on the temple's vibrant roof tiles, creating an almost ethereal glow. I spent time observing the intricate carvings and statues, each telling its own story. The soft murmur of prayers, the scent of incense, and the delicate sound of wooden chimes blended into a tapestry of tranquility.

I found a corner to sit and sketch, trying to capture the essence of the temple's elegance. The way the sunlight filtered through the leaves of the nearby trees created a play of light and shadow across the temple's main hall. I was particularly drawn to a statue of a dragon wrapped around a pillar-its fierce expression contrasting with the serenity of the surroundings.

After a while, I just put down my sketchbook and let myself be still. The rhythm of visitors saying prayers, lighting incense, and bowing in reverence seemed to embody a timelessness that resonated deeply. It felt like stepping into another realm where the hustle and bustle outside seemed worlds away.

I left the temple feeling lighter, as if I had been part of something quietly profound, if only for a moment.