often associated by westerners as symbol of evil , so impressively misunderstood . We are good at misunderstanding .
Founded over a thousand years ago the Lamayuru Gompa remains one of the largest in the region , housing over 150 monks .
“ Where you from ?”, a kind faced , elderly monk finally addressed me . He ’ d been following me for 15 minutes , step for step , caressing every pray wheel in the process .
“ Ah ! Australia ?” he ’ d seemed to question as I gave my reply . I was unsure if he ’ d understood , perhaps not , it mattered little , we were here together in this wonderful place connected by a shared experience . He reached out and took my hand , clasping it between his two . A feeing of genuine warmth filled me as he encouraged further exploration . A simple gesture that seemed to
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