A special post by photographer and Tibetan Nuns Project supporter, Brian Harris.

My wife Paula and I spent five weeks photographing at four Tibetan Nuns Project nunneries in India in April 2013.

It was an experience full of beauty I will never forget. What I recall most vividly are the lovely songs of the many birds in the morning accompanied by the soft murmuring sounds of the nuns reciting prayers and scriptures. (You can listen to exactly what Brian is writing about by clicking his audio recording of the bird song and prayers at http://tmblr.co/ZeUSItheHrQj)

In the foothills of the Himalayas, Tibetan Buddhist nuns pursue their studies. Photo courtesy of Brian Harris.

It was as if we were living inside a spiritual beehive. The imagery of a productive beehive was heightened by the sight of solitary nuns, at all times of the day and in all kinds of locations, walking back and forth or just standing reciting with those soft, soothing sounds.

Thanks to the Tibetan Nuns Project supporters, over 700 nuns now have equal access to education. At Dolma Ling Nunnery, they can pursue a 19-year course of study. Photo courtesy of Brian Harris.

This beauty obviously comes primarily from the nuns’ own powerful and dedicated effort inspired by the profound teachings of the Buddha. It also comes from all of the Tibetan Nuns Project supporters, who lovingly contribute to the well being of the nuns and the programs and projects created by the Nuns Project.

Here’s what one sponsor said about supporting a nun: “Education offers improvement on so many levels, including the crucial basic needs of survival. There is a lot of “bang for the buck” here it seems, and women are now stepping forward as leaders. I think it is amazing to be reaching all the way around the world to put my hand in the hand of the woman I support. Go Tibetan Nuns Project!” MM, Seattle WA

It was truly a great pleasure and honour for Paula and me to give once again to the Tibetan Nuns Project and the nuns they support!

Brian Harris

There are always nuns who are awaiting sponsorship. For less than $1 per day, sponsors can help provide a nun’s basic necessities including education, food, shelter and health care. The sponsorship money goes directly to India to meet the nuns’ living expenses. You can become a sponsor today. Learn more at https://tnp.org/youcanhelp/sponsor/

To see many more of Brian’s photos of life at the nunneries in India, visit the Tibetan Nuns Project Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TibetanNuns

Buddhist nun at Dolma Ling Nunnery studying at night. Photo courtesy of Brian Harris