Bright, Sunshiny Day

I had an early start today, as I was invited to do some volunteer work. It was something new for me, so I woke up feeling excited. :)

Around 7am, I was trekking the slight slopes downhill to my bus stop, with my earphones stuffed in my ears, only half-listening to what was blasting from my phone as my mind became decidedly preoccupied with everything I needed to take care of, especially in the next few days. Suddenly, I came across this kind smile and so I smiled back. Despite the drab fading garb of a monk, the distorted curvature of the spine from old age, the shine of the utterly smooth, bald head, I knew she was a woman.

She was lonesome with a few of her belongings she was pushing in front of her with a worn-down trolley. She was gesturing for me to come to her so I approached. I wasn't able to understand what she was saying, for I didn't speak Chinese. Thankfully, a man who could came by, and I smiled apologetically and went on my way.

I quickly stopped by an ATM and then crossed the street to my bus stop and miraculously, she was already there. How that happened, I wasn't sure. Maybe the man who was able to speak to her gave her a ride. She smiled at me still and so I smiled back. There was a few people waiting, and she was smiling and laughing and talking to all of us, not minding if she was being paid attention to or being comprehended.

Bus 70M pulled up. A young Indian woman helped her with her trolley. I was right behind this sunny, cheerful monk as she awkwardly climbed on with her trembling feet, clad in black cloth flats I thought I'd only see in kung fu movies. My hands were ready to catch her in case she stumbled or fell but she got on just fine, even flashing a good-natured smile as she turned back to look at me. People gave way in order for her to occupy the most accessible seat, and she struck up conversations with people nearest to her, eliciting a laugh from a seemingly sleep-deprived man to her right.

I was sitting a few feet away, fascinated by this effervescent creature. I did not understand a word she was saying but I was drawn to her spirit and light. Anyone who accommodated her with polite smiles and engaged with her in small talk also were. Alas there were people who looked away and paid no heed, perhaps finding it strange that a sole female monk was on the bus early Sunday morning.

As though the 20-minute ride seem to fly by, the nearest MRT station was upon us. Half of the passengers stood up, queued towards the doors and began to alight. She happily waved goodbye, especially to people who had been kind to her during that bus ride. I exchanged one last smile with her, inadvertently bestowing me with positive energy to take me through the day.

Finally, the bus drove away, with her looking into the distance on the continuation of her journey.

Thank you, dear monk, may you reach your destination safe and sound, giving even more sunshine to the road you walk on this blessed Sunday.