Today is the last day of this phase before the monks take a three day retreat. The Aadheenam is quiet, with a gentle breeze and cloudy skies. A good way to end the first week of Sadhu Paksha. The monks will have one more phase of this observance, spending their morning hours away from their usual routine, walking the sacred gardens or perhaps just meditating at one of the Monastery's many smaller shrines or sacred statues.

“Those who are near me do not know that you are nearer to me than they are
Those who speak to me do not know that my heart is full with your unspoken words
Those who crowd in my path do not know that I am walking alone with you
Those who love me do not know that their love brings you to my heart”
― Rabindranath Tagore

Today, Surya and Beth Sundaram visited the Aadheenam from Colorado, and spent most of their morning meeting with, and being shown around by Kaivalyanathaswami. Their morning's adventure included a stop at the Media Studio where they met with Sadasivanathaswami. We have known Surya since childhood and he is very happy to see the monastery again. This afternoon the two will have a chance to see Iraivan temple.

Recently the Wailua Mission members held their monthly rudraksha beading get-together. Sivarathna, Adi and Vel all joined them for the day to help. Sales from Rudrksha malas and jewelry have been a big help in the support of Iraivan temple.