How I met Saint
Dhamma Talk
Just before sunrise, nuns quietly gather in the Dhamma Hall, settling into stillness as they await the morning Dhamma Talk by Sayadaw Ashin Ottamasara. On this particular morning, the beauty was profound—early sunlight streamed gently through the hall, casting a golden glow on their serene faces. The silence held a sacred weight, as if the light itself were part of the meditation. In that quiet moment, time stood still, held by light, breath, and intention.
Alms round
A Buddhist monk owns nothing but his robe, alms bowl, and fan—each offered at the time of ordination. To eat, he walks barefoot from house to house on the daily alms round, receiving offerings in silence. Sayadaw Ashin Ottamasara’s path is even more demanding: each morning, he sets out to gather food not just for himself, but for over 3,000 monastics and devotees. His alms round is a practice of compassion and responsibility, woven into the rhythm of daily life. In his quiet footsteps lies the weight of both humility and great service
Feeding 3000
After the morning alms round, trucks from three different locations converge at a central point to unload offerings. A team of devoted volunteers is already waiting, ready to carry the donations inside and begin sorting them. The space quickly fills with movement, coordination, and quiet purpose. Fresh food is carefully redistributed, ensuring both the monastic community and lay supporters receive nourishment.
Container from US
Thabarwa received a shipping container from the United States, filled with generous donations—furniture, electronics, children’s toys, clothing, musical instruments, and more. Each item was carefully unloaded and organized under the guidance of Sayadaw Ashin Ottamasara, with the dedicated help of many volunteers. These offerings will be distributed to Thabarwa centers across Myanmar, where they will support monastics, families, and individuals on the path of spiritual and physical well-being.
Orphanage
In front of the babies and toddlers, toys from the recently arrived U.S. container are now gently scattered—bright, colorful pieces of joy finding new hands. “The head nun of this orphanage has been blind since she was five,” Sayadaw tells us. Her presence radiates strength and compassion. Thabarwa currently supports three orphanages, where over a hundred children are fed, sheltered, and lovingly cared for—a testament to compassion in action.
The last rites
Despite his busy schedule, Sayadaw always finds time for the residents of Thabarwa. On this day, it was a woman nearing the final moments of her life. She had one last wish—to see him, to feel his presence one more time before passing. Sayadaw came without hesitation, offering her not just his time, but his calm, compassionate presence. In that quiet meeting, there was peace, gratitude, and a profound sense of closure.
Wazo
Vassa is the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravāda Buddhists, traditionally held during the rainy season. During this sacred time, monastics remain in one place—usually a monastery or temple grounds—dedicating themselves to deep meditation, study, and disciplined spiritual practice. At the start of Vassa, all monks and nuns gather in the Dhamma Hall for a special ceremony. Each receives a fresh robe and a flower, symbolizing purity, renewal, and their continued commitment to the path. It is a moment of quiet joy, unity, and shared purpose.
