mazzy stars lead singer in her prime.

the temple sat in the vertical city like an abnormality, not fitting into the landscape but standing apart with its curved and pointed rooftops and colour of golds and yellows. outside a  crowd of tourist and beggars jostled for sidewalk space as the ticket sale booth began to open. waiting patiently, I noticed a monk stood alongside the doors, appearing as most to be waiting for the doors to open. as if to jump the lines to enter the temple and find the way earlier, I sidled up to him to begin the days search for answers to the questions of lifes.

what about that man i ask, pointing to a particularly dirty and unsightly beggar who seemed to have an extreme case of scoliosis, his chin almost pushed against his navel. why is he so unfortunate I asked. why must he be cursed?

the monk paused a bit before explaining to me that the man, with his curved spine is the luckiest of the bunch. that god had given him such a gift, for when the local government charities go out to assist he is the first to receive their attention. that he does not need to toil in a meaningless job and will always be helped and looked upon. that that man is looked after by the temple and the visitors award him the most tips. the monk further explained that during times of wars, the beggar will always be given a pass, that his handicap will free him from having to enter into warfare or engage in the senseless wars that mankind finds himself in from time to time.

you think you see an unfortunate or unhappy man, you foolish boy, please get back in line.