An Afternoon in the Courtyard

Not every hour at Dzongkar Choede is filled with formal study or ritual.

After classes, the monastery courtyard can become a very different place. Young monks talk together, finish small tasks, practise what they have learned — and, when there is time, simply play.

A ball appears. Someone begins running. A serious conversation dissolves into laughter.

Scenes like this are easily overlooked when we think about monastic life. We often picture prayer halls, scriptures and ceremonies. All of these are important, but a monastery is also a community in which people grow up, work, learn, make friendships and share ordinary moments.

The sound of debate and chanting may define many hours of the day at Dzongkar Choede.

Sometimes, however, the sound that carries across the courtyard is simply laughter.