We decided to walk around and every time we saw a wát (temple) we will go in and respectfully observe. In total we visited 5 temples. Something that caught my attention were the fiberglass statues. Jasmin had visited that temple before hand and shared her impression of these monk figures, her lab mates explained the material that was used as well as some of the monks’ background. So, I had an idea of what to expect once I entered the temple.
Imagine yourself entering this quiet and dim building and three monks are sitting in something that looks like a table! The monks look so real: skin tone, wrinkles, freckles, and candid smiles...but they are not moving. I have seen wax statues before but these pieces of art truly captured my curiosity and attention the second I locked eyes with one of them.
Personally, I prefer the less-tourist oriented temples because you can observe a more authentic scene, I was not exposed to Buddhism before moving to the United States, in Mexico ninety two percent of the population is Catholic. Once I moved, I started learning more about this religion since one of my best friends is buddhist.
I am honestly enjoying visiting temples and observing the religious traditions that buddhism encourages. Something new that we observed in a couple of temples there were some blue metal signs that had several phrases, proverbs or old sayings written in white font. Personally I like the lessons that each of those blue signs were trying to point out. The major concepts were perseverance, kindness, and above all humbleness.
I like the philosophy of helping and looking out for others, I do believe it can create a more united and happier cultural environment, and last I believe this ideal should be incorporated in more social contexts
Carolina Mendoza