Looks like I'll be here another year

A couple of Saturdays ago, I guess it was, Sunim (Korean for "monk") asked if I wanted to become a novice here. I was stunned by the question. He offered this as a way for me to work and make money here in Korea, and, as a way to get into and to practice Seon.

At first, he said I'd need to commit for 3 or 5 years. I told him no straight away. I told him why. In the end, we agreed that I'd do the novice practice for a year. I can stay longer if I want. So we have an agreement.

The following Sunday he cut my hair. The next day I went into town to get a picture taken for my passport application. It expires in November of this year and I'll need to have a passport that will be valid longer than the one year religious visa that we'll start the application process for tomorrow.

I'm actually really pleased to do this. I don't know how the practice will differ from lay practice where I'd just live and work here at the temple. It may not differ much at all. I suppose it would if I were Korean. You know, language and all. But anyway, I'm looking forward to it.

I'll need to get some clothing which will be similar to monk's clothing. That'll cost a bit.

I'll just stop here. Want to get on to a couple of other things before I get ready for bed.

Oh, I'll be home in early May. I'll visit as many people as I can. But I suppose I'll only be home for about 10 days. Sunim wants me to get back as soon as possible. I'll start teaching after I get back.

I'll write about the kids in another entry. And about the gardening work.

Troy.

Hmm… seems I’ve written all this before. Have I?!