The Quiet before the Storm

Only the lingering aroma of incense accompanied Lisa and me in the office of the Asian Beach Games today. Even though 93% of Bali citizens are Hindu, the majority of the Games’ staff is Muslim and is currently celebrating the two-day holiday Eid ul-Fitr. Eid meaning “festivity” and Fitr meaning “to break the fast” marks the end of the Islamic holy month, Ramadan. The effect is that most of the staff has travelled back to their respective hometowns, leaving e-mails and requests unanswered and our progress at a near standstill. The holiday wouldn’t be a cause of concern if it wasn’t for the President of Indonesia’s impending visit on Oct. 10, when he will tour the Main Press Center and the Games’ venues – here’s to hoping that the gods plan for us to be prepared for the President’s arrival!

Earlier this week, Lisa and I were invited to visit the most sacred Hindu temple Pura Besakih. The two hour drive through the lush, green Bali countryside was almost as spectacular as the temple itself. We passed beautiful views peppered with small huts and endless rice fields during our ascension into the misty foothills of Mount Agung. As we parked near the temple a man immediately approached the car and flashed a badge that identified him as official temple personnel. “You cannot enter the temple alone, must go with me,” he informed us. Our local escorts knew this routine and we brushed passed him towards the entrance – tourists beware…

Rice fields

Bali countryside

While wandering through the massive 2000-year-old temple we witnessed many Hindus worshiping through prayers and offerings. Some of the areas are off-limits to non-Hindus, but on your tip-toes it’s possible to peer over the walls and watch the ceremonies unfold. It was amazing to not only see such ancient temples, but also witness them still in use as they were centuries ago.

Pura Besakih

Hindus worshiping

The next couple of days Lisa and I will be preparing for the staff’s return and the madness that will surely ensue, and maybe I will get a bit of shopping done when time permits. For now I will leave you with a commercial for the Asian Beach Games that has been airing on television stations throughout the region.

With love,

Ben Z Samples

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