I have a confession to make: the yo-yos are my fault. Well, my mom's fault really, as she mailed a box of books and art supplies...and yo-yos. Games aren't typically welcomed at the monastery. During one of the Nepali holidays, a neighborhood family brought kites to the Gumba, and the monks enviously watched these children run around with their colorful toys.

I had to explain to my mother the importance of cultural competence when looking for ways to help. It's essential to be mindful and respectful of the traditions of a place. Needless to say, it was the monks' first encounter with yo-yos. They quickly got the hang of it.

Pierre, thank you for helping us mindfully support the Matepani community.