Photography by Ndoema
I’ve barely stepped foot inside Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar. The beauty of this sacred site is overwhelming. As I catch my breath and set out to explore this spectacular temple and architectural marvel (complete with a gold-plated dome topped by a stupa containing over 7,000 diamonds, rubies, topaz and sapphires and offset by a massive emerald positioned to reflect the last rays of the setting sun), a powerful monk in deep oxblood robes sitting at the steps of one of the golden Buddha temples meets my gaze.
His presence is so incredible that I instinctively reach out for my camera.
As I’m clumsily reaching out for my telephoto lens as fast as I can to attempt to capture him from afar, he suddenly and solemnly waves at me. I think, in a flash, that I might be trespassing and already regret the idea. He insistingly signals me to come forward so I tentatively do. As I approach him apologetically, he points to the camera then looks me straight in the eye and I know… Though there are no words, I know that I am about to receive the ultimate gift. As I adjust the focus on my lens, I can hardly believe the overwhelming power that is coming through. The kind of generosity and exchange I could never have dreamed of nor asked for. A powerful and empowering gift I will cherish forever.
6 thoughts on “Power”
Myanmar is rich with so many beautiful pagodas. Hope you had a grand time, dear.
It’s humbling to be able to visit a sacred place of worship. You are so blessed Ndoema 🙂
So you’re telling me that the statues behind the monk is made of gold and real precious stones? Amazing!
Weren’t you just in Thailand in the last post? Holy cow girl, you are all over the world!
I remember the last time my family and I were there, the monks were camera shy. Lucky you!
7000 diamonds? wow! Wish you took more pics!