A few days before leaving Ubud, a friend and I took one last tour to see Tirta Empul, the Holy Spring Temple and Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple. And my were we lucky! This past weekend marked temple celebrations across the island and we were fortunate enough to witness ceremonies and offerings everywhere we went. It was stunning to see whole villages of people, dressed in their finest silks and jewels, walking miles across town with baskets of fruits and flowers to offer thanks to the gods. The smell of incense permeated the afternoons, gongs rang and drums echoed down the streets, and colours, so many colours spilled over everywhere! Though I can’t possibly begin to understand the complexity and history behind Hinduism, it was a blessing to be witness to the beautiful traditional dances, gong ensembles, processions, prayer ceremonies and cleansing rituals that we saw this weekend.
At Tirta Empul, it was youth day. Hundreds of young adults came to wash away their impurities, ward against black magic and bathe anew in the natural spring waters. It was touching to see so many young people rooted in their faith and traditions. They laughed and giggled while in line, but when it came time to pray at the fountain mouths, there was a solemness that came over each and every one of them.
Dan Beuttner did a TED talk on living happier and longer and one of the major conclusions that he came up with after studying centennials from all over the world is that belonging to the right tribe and being a part of a faith based community can add years to your life. I couldn’t help but remember this as I humbly watched the elaborate celebrations happening this past weekend. Even for just a few days, people forgot that they were poor and hungry and came together to give thanks. There is a simple abundance in the acts of faith and gratitude, and both bring true richness to this place.
