Dolanji is pretty remote from civilization though there are signs it is growing - both the monastery, which is building more buildings and the shops, two convenience stores, a restaurant of sorts and a cybercafe, not to mention the guesthouse, all of which didn't exist when Pam was here.

Today is a vacation/holiday for the monks so they are washing their robes, eating peanuts and playing handheld video games and cricket.

In talking with one of the kids, he said that though they are supported by the monastery, not all become monks, much as not everyone that goes to catholic school becomes a priest or monk/nun. I also got to see their living quarters. Their bedroom, for it was really one large room was sectioned off by 1/2 height cubicles - reminding me of a large office, except filled with beds. It often smelled like ass. I also saw the dining room and kitchen and playground. The kids wanted me to give them english lessons but I declined. In retrospect that's exactly the kind of teaching I would do for world teach - so, um, cool but I didn't really feel like I had enough energy to do it. It takes a ton of energy and infinite patience. Makes me wonder if I can really do it.

It's so warm here, especially for November. I love it. It is intense how a place can affect you. Being here is perfect for me right now. The climate is amazing, the people friendly and the life simple. It has taken away a lot of the bad feelings that I have felt and replaced it with compassion.