The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple Experience

I just wanted to remember, although I am sure I always will, a moment that occurred in the Buddhist Temple in China Town, Singapore yesterday, Wednesday 11th November. I’d been in the temple for a little while. I’d taken some photos outside in the courtyard, I’d lit my incense stick and said my prayer. I’d sat down on a chair and contemplated the huge Buddha statues in front of me, with the others who were either praying or meditating, or possibly sleeping given their slouched position, or just sitting and looking, like me.

I had got up, walked around the edge of the seating area and through to the back of the temple, one of the exits...I nearly left at that point, but something drew me back in. Thankfully. It would have been so very wrong to leave so early. So I walked back in and back through to the main part of the temple. As I walked down the side aisle that was separated from the rows of chairs, I happened to glance into the seating area and my eyes met with those of an old lady...I’m not sure if she was already praying, or looking at me, but she instantly gave me such a beautiful smile, truly one from her heart and gestured the Namaste gesture to me, bowing her head slightly. With that simple but huge gesture I was immediately filled with love. I cannot quite explain it. I felt honoured. i felt like she cared. Like she knew. Knew what I was thinking, feeling, what I’d been through lately. Good and bad. It was quite incredible and to some perhaps, unbelievable. But to me, it was a very real and pure moment and one that I will remember for years to come. I felt strength in that smile, in those eyes. Strength I could use in my life. It almost sends shivers down my spine.