At the entrance of the temple the elderly would await you. They would raise their hand above your lowered head to bless you, your life and the life path you are on.
When visiting the temple I wanted to be nothing but respectful. This lady saw me even though I was hiding in the shadows of the others at the very back of Hindus. She dipped her finger in the tikka, signed me over, blessed me and my life ahead of me.
In Nepal there is now social security system. The elderly, the ones with special needs and those who are alone may live at the temple. They help to sustain the temple and perform blessings. Everyone there rely on charity.
In her 90's and marked by life. She was small, blind on one way and so very fragile. Her time was running out and yet she was not scared. The next life was waiting for her, a better one.
This gentlemen came up to me and started chatting away. Even though I did not understand him, nore would he have my answers. We have had a great conversation laughing and joking away. At the end of the words aren't needed, we all speak one language: kindness and understanding.
Even though life has left its beautiful marks. Whenever I looked into her eyes it felt like I see the universe with all its depth and mystery.
Can you see her aura? Whenever we talked or she just looked at me, it felt soothing. There was something about her that mesmerized me in the most beautiful way.
The only comfort while awaiting death is prayer. This are the hands of a holly person, pretty much the only person that can read. Reading and guiding the prayers are his tasks.
These three ladies sat down on a little bench, waiting patiently for the food that was donated to the temple. I told them, what they are "ramru" (definitely written wrong) it is nepali and means "beautiful". And like young girls they started giggling and laughing. It is one of my most favorite photos ever taken.