Every week we walk to the local town on alms round with our bowls. We arrive just as the children are going to school. Children even as young as five or so walk through the town on their own. Many are sweet, friendly. Some greet us, ‘Hi!’ as they go on their way. There is no break or hesitation in their stride, as they do so giving a very impressive air of independence. Cars pass through, driven very slowly and carefully without exception. Every week this scene is exactly the same, rain or sunshine, warm or cold – sometimes very cold. It is all very beautiful, it says a lot.

Ajahn Kalyano
Senior Monk
Skiptvet Buddhist Monastery