27. SHOCK

I was dimly aware of the silence in the hall, the fragrance of incense, and the all-pervading sense of tranquillity as I walked toward the dimly lit waiting room. The entire atmosphere had such a calming effect on anyone who came in, I thought. Long windows, a carved ceiling, and walls adorned with paintings that retold the story of the Buddha.

When I had first come here, broken-hearted and almost hopeless, this monastery had offered me shelter, unconditionally. There were times when i used to sit here in this room, weeping, praying to a Power I wasn't sure was listening anymore.

Gradually, the love and concern of the people around me had made me a more confident person. The birth of my children had only added to the purpose of my life.

Smiling softly to myself, I entered the hall.

*

But my words of greeting died away when I saw the powerfully built man standing before the impressive statue of Lord Buddha. Dressed in a dark suit with a long overcoat, his salt and pepper head gleaming,