It seemed like a good idea at first, but only time will tell if bringing the kids back together at Wat Opot for the holiday break was the right thing to do… or not. We had a good time together rediscovering our old home. The staff were on holiday leave so we had the place to ourselves.

Seventeen of the children stayed the whole five and a half days and nine of the older alumni stopped in for a visit during the week, some bringing treats for the kids. Five of the Monks also dropped in with food from the Temple, the head Monk greeting me with open arms and a hug, which surprised me because it is unusual for them to do so.

During the day the kids played on the playground or had water fights with guns that Josh brought for them. They also watched their favorite shows on television when bored with games or during downpours.

In the evenings we had our usual meditations but they were a bit more Pentecostal in nature because the home where some of the children are staying is run by Christians.

Our time together was much to short, but a pleasant reminder of what we once had. Unfortunately the conditions some of them are returning to are not ideal and saying goodbye again was difficult.

I will be taking up temporary residency at Wat Opot again to see if there is still a place for me in that community. The reception has been good so far… will keep you posted.