Marigolds for Buddha

Following on from yesterday's post of the mai lai here is a photo of the marigold offering for the Wats.  From a blog called Tricycle I found the following interesting reflection on the role of floral offerings in Buddhism

"Contemplating a flower, says Abbot Phra Meo, is a way of reaching understanding. But the true Buddhist should be aware that the beauty of the flower is also a potential distraction—it is therefore important not to limit one’s considerations to the colors, forms and scent of flowers. Flowers represent impermanence—a central concept of Buddhism: they are sweet-smelling one day and foul and withered the next."

Mai Lai for Margaret

I sent this photo of a Mai Lai garland to a friend from VIS who has had to travel to Colorado for a death in her family, so I thought I would share it on the blog too. Blessings to all.

Grey Light at Sunset

The days have been cooler this week and the sunsets less vibrant. They grey light on the Mekong looking towards Thailand was mesmerising.

My Son Temple

A visit to My Son temple was another highlight of my long weekend visit to Hoi An.

It is a Hindu temple built from  the 4th C- 13th century - as part of the Champa kingdom.

It was mainly in ruins due to damage from climate, plants and of course war. It was Viet Cong strong hold and heavily bombed by the Americans

Vegetable Gardens

These vegetable gardens on the edge of Hoi An were green, neat and well tended.  A cycle ride last Saturday through the rice paddies and back lanes of Hoi An provided a brief insight into local Vietnamese life.

Friday Night Lanterns in Hoi An

Last Friday night I was enjoying Vietnamese food and the lanterns in Hoi An.

Football Fans

Vietnam was celebrating soccer over the weekend. The U23 team was in the final for the ASEAN Football Cup.  Cathryn said Saigon had been crazy last week when they made the final.  Hoi-An was crazy and filled with fans in red with head bands and T shirts and extra tooting of  horns for the final on Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately they lost in extra time.  These young fans were ready to celebrate and watch the match.