In a world shaken—sometimes literally—we search for signs of hope. When the earth trembles and structures fall, it is the spirit that must rise. I often find myself turning to images, both old and new, to understand the present and glimpse what might come next. One such image, taken years ago at the Simpyram Pagoda in Mandalay, Myanmar, has returned to my mind with new resonance.
Leaping Toward Light Amidst the Rubble
Recently, Mandalay and surrounding areas were struck by a devastating earthquake. As the news broke, my thoughts flew to the people of Myanmar—their resilience, their spirit, their beauty. In times like these, when pain and loss are immediate, we search for ways to feel connected from afar.
This photograph of young novice monks bounding joyfully across the wave-like rooftops of the Simpyram Pagoda is one such bridge. It is a moment suspended in time—where spirituality meets exuberance, where structure meets movement, and where the sacred meets the playful. Their leap is symbolic. It’s a bold movement into the unknown, a dare to see the world differently.
A Moment of Lightness in Sacred Space
Years ago, when I first made this image, I was captivated by the juxtaposition of the boys’ laughter and energy with the stillness of their monastic path. Here were children in deep spiritual practice—yet at this moment, they were flying. The pagoda beneath them, with its soft undulating curves, became a playground of the spirit.
To see joy expressed in a place of worship was transformative.
Often, spirituality is viewed as solitary—quiet, inward, still. But in this fleeting moment, it was kinetic, uplifting, contagious. It taught me that spirituality can be playful, and that such play can awaken parts of the soul long forgotten.
A Shared Humanity That Transcends Borders
Now, in the aftermath of the earthquake, this image takes on new meaning. The buildings we once stood upon may crumble, but the human spirit can rise higher than any rooftop. From California to Mandalay, we are connected not just by tragedy but by the shared longing for joy, for safety, for renewal.
Disaster can become a doorway—to empathy, to rebuilding, to reevaluating what truly connects us. These moments urge us to ask: What can we build now that brings us closer? What new frontiers can we cross, not with fear, but with open hearts?
Rebuilding with Spirit and Joy
As Myanmar begins the long journey toward recovery, I hold onto this image and what it represents. Hope. Courage. Connection. A leap toward something better. I believe with all my heart that what the people of Mandalay will create—what they will restore—will be filled with soul and beauty.
Let us remember that spiritual light often shines brightest after the storm. And let us walk in solidarity, inspired by these young monks who teach us that renewal can begin with one small leap of joy.
How You Can Support:
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Learn More: Stay informed about Myanmar’s recovery efforts and the region’s cultural significance.
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Support Relief Efforts: Donate to reputable organizations aiding earthquake relief and rebuilding in Myanmar.
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Share the Image: Spread awareness by sharing this story and image on social media to foster global connection and empathy.
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Explore the Art: View or purchase the limited edition print of Temple Run at www.LISAKRISTINE.com to support ongoing storytelling and cultural preservation.
