Time for Some Offerings

Okay, who knew that Indonesia's were so religious? Definitely not me! I had no idea. The whole country is filled with temples, big and small, ornate and less ornate, inspiring and common.

We have been trying to figure out why the people are so happy and welcoming. Initially, I honestly thought it was to get my money. But as I have ready about the culture, I've learned that it is a way of life. Almost every person you meet says, "where are you from?" or "where are you going?" They all really want to know. It's there way of changing your relationship from stranger to friend.

And we think it's because of the OFFERINGS. Three times a day the people pay homage to the gods by leaving flower offering. Some are for good luck and good health. Others line the streets outside of every shop warding off evil spirits. It's almost impossible to walk down the street without stepping on or tripping over a flower offering with burning incense. I LOVE IT! And we really think that this selfless act of good karma reminds the people to think outside of themselves.

So with a pure desire to absorb the culture and find TRUE happiness, we have joined with our Indonesian brothers and sisters to give our offerings. We have visited about more than 15 temples. Some are much more grand that others.




Each time we wrap ourselves in sarongs to show respect.




Here we are at Pura Besakih the largest and most important temple in Bali. It is on the highest mountain and overlooks most of the island in one of the most breath-taking views I have ever seen.

Some lady stopped our car on the road to bless and give us offerings. We were so confused when she did it. She was throwing water on us and sticking rice to our foreheads. It was hilarious, we just kept laughing. But we were very happy because we dropped off our offerings and prayed at the Besakih Temple.



When we got to the highest temple, a priest helped us go through the prayer process. It was very involved and we ended up covered in flowers and rice. Who knew? The funniest part was when he insisted that we give a financial offering. Too funny. Everyone is trying to make a dime...sounds like priest craft to me.