Heartroom at Thanh Son temple
The temple in front and sleeping quarters on the right
Yesterday we arrived at Nha Trang, one of Vietnam's most beautiful cities. In 2008 the miss Universe contest was held at the Diamond Bay of Nha Trang, and a 10 minute drive from this resort is where we can find the Thanh Son temple.
Awale greets the children at the temple.
The children are given the option of becoming a munk or just live at the tempel as they are.
We arrived to the temple in a rental car and it was difficult to find the way as the place is located on a spot anywhere in the mountains. The temple has 107 kids (ranging from 6 months until 25 years old) and 17 elderly. An old lady I spoke to had lived there for 6 years as neither her relatives or government could take care of her. I was further told by the residing munk that just this month they have received two 6 months old babies, they were left on the temple's doorstep by their mothers. These are homeless children and elderly with no where to go or anyone to care for them.
The daily chanting session
Some of the children. Both boys and girls.
What surprised us the most about this place is the smiles and energy that met us when we came to the temple. The children immediately rushed toward the gates and start to cling and play around with us, total strangers to them. These children has so little and barely a place to live, but they seemed to be more happy than many people I know. A little boy said to me "chu am em duoc khong?" meaning "uncle, can you pick me up". Others would quickly follow, all of them wanted hugs and us to play with them. It is not difficult to imagine what they miss the when growing up without parents or other family members to care for them.
Group picture outside chanting hall
Group picture outside the temple
As was already discussed by the members of Heartroom we decided to give money donations and let the institutions decide how they want to spend it. However, what regrettable this time was that we didn't divide the donations into materials and cash -and not only give as a bundle of 500 USD. I'm sure the children would appreciate to have a been brought some candy, food, toothbrush and towels in addition to the money. In a few days we will make a visit to the children in Daklak. So let us know quickly if it is OK for you that we divide your donations into food and such or continue to give it as a money donation.
Studying inside their dorm
Getting ready for dinner outside the chanting hall
Heading away from the remotely located temple and back toward direction of the Diamond Bay golf club and resort, I can't help but missing the children's happy smiles already. We care for them within our capacity. I thanked the munks on behalf of all of us for taking care of those wonderful children and elderly. And we thank you for your continous support. Without you none of this would have been possible.
Rusty beds ...
... and shiny smiles.
Please ask us any question you may have, we are glad when you show interest in our work!
Best regards
Vinh & Awale in Nha Trang, 2010
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