There is So Much to Love About Bali
Bali… Just saying the word, hearing the word, reading the word, even writing the word, - captures a time and place of marvel and mystery…
We could’ve launched out to one of the many countries and cultures that we are keen to visit and “stay a while” in. After all, we moved to Indonesia twenty-five years ago and lived, worked, played and prayed here for four years. We’ve been back for visits to Indonesia, especially to Bali, multiple times since moving back to the States.
Why not start with those places high on our list? France, Portugal, Spain, Italy… Or other nearby Asian countries that we have not yet seen, but hope to someday: Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia…
Even adventurous folks have seasons of craving something familiar, something known, something that “feels like home”. For us, that place is Bali.
Indonesians must be among the most clever, innovative and gracious people on earth. In the chain of problem solving decisions that arise in circumstances from mundane to exotic, Indonesians resourcefully find a ‘workaround’ that both baffles and amazes Westerners like us. The Balinese just do all this with exceptional grace and subtlety.
In the faces that genuinely light up to greet you, whether initiated by them or by us, there is no holding back on the broad smiles and hands clasped in salutation. The carefully placed offerings set out mornings and late afternoons along sidewalks, intersections, homes and businesses. The respect afforded to other drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrians and curbside vendors in what initially seems like utter chaos on the roadways, yet is an exercise in efficiency and trust. (Musing of the day: Does an abundance of traffic laws make us safer? Or do fewer laws of the road in a society inclined toward deference make us safer?)
With national elections coming up in 2024 for the Republic of Indonesia, campaign posters are popping up across Bali. Candidates are getting their messages out, but not at the expense of other candidates. Balinese generally view the slates of candidates as people of good intent who all want the best for the nation.
There is so much to love about Bali. The fragrance of the frangipani. The resonant chirp of the tokay gecko. Gentle souls of good will.
Does Bali have its problems? Sure, it does. Lots. It’s not a perfect world by any means. But in the music of the spheres, Bali’s score is rich in grace notes…
