Cambodia: Moments of Transcendence

In Prayer
Cambodian Man in Prayer

Lighting incense, praying over candles, bowing one’s head, the ringing of a bell, folded hands or those raised to make the sign of the cross… all outward signs of devotion seen as one is crossing the threshold into a type of divine space and,”In the attitude of silence, the soul finds its path in a clearer light.” (Gandhi)

Buddhist Nun in Prayer

As I was photographing at a small outdoor temple, this Buddhist nun motioned to me. After our gracious bow to each other, I then learned about the practice of Sai Sin. She began to chant blessings, sprinkled me with water and tied a red string around my wrist and kissed it. Sai Sin is believed to ensure blessings and restore the natural order of things. The color is usually red or white and the recipient is encouraged not to remove this but rather let it fall off naturally.
I am still wearing it and that day, a red string became my outward sign of connection with something larger than myself…another’s heart.