Your smooth sandalwood beads are strung together by a deep vermillion red cord. It reminds me that even though we stand as individuals, just like these round beads, we are connected by threads, creating a larger circle of connection, just like this mala. To some, it may look like a simple, wooden beaded necklace. But this mala, has been in my hands when I went in for a fine needle aspiration biopsy, the needle so close to my jugular veins and vocal cords that I had to sign a waiver at the hospital that said, “risk of losing voice possible.” So, I stayed as still as possible, making my breath so inwardly quiet, while cupping the mala necklace in my hand as if it was Amma herself holding my hand, comforting me.