Ayya Medhanandi

(Mary Fiksel)

The Food of Kindness, by Ayya Medhanandi (2005; 84k/4pp., illustrated (80k))

A senior ten-precept Theravada nun eloquently reflects on the hardships and joys of the daily pindapat (alms-round). By this ancient monastic tradition the spritual mendicant — the "true beggar" — both receives nourishment from the tangible generosity of others, while at the same time offering others the rare opportunity to practice giving with an open heart. In the words of the author: "I receive and I give back." [Also available in PDF .]