Before I left for Vietnam I had watched man
y video clips and read articles on the attacks on Bat Nha monastery. I expected at least some discussion about it given that I have visited dozens of temples in Vietnam so far. It seems to me to be the elephant in the room, atleast in my room. It has been quite hush-hush. Why? I'm just trying to listen, have quiet conversations, get a feel for why no one in the Vietnam Buddhist world seems to be doing anything about this. There are probably many things I am not privy to, coming as an outsider with my idea about how to speak out about injustice. I have never lived under a communist/socialist government so I cannot claim to know the best way to act under these circumstances. Especially since the temples here seem to be well-funded and well supported by the government. Next to the Buddhist flag, flies the red flag at most temples. For now, I am listening. Watching. Meeting everyone with a gentle curiousity. I have to say I have heard many nuns and monks describe a real reverence and admiration for Thich Nhat Hanh. I have no doubt that he is well loved here. Ok, I must head back to the temple.
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