Bali Morning of the World

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Nigel Simmonds. Bali Morning of the World

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Introduction

History

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Behind this little king, with his adult gaze and regal persona, trouped brown-skinned and black-haired men, their features smooth and manner proud. And then more—a line of teenage girls, a vision of collective beauty descending in size right down to a last little toddler, a perfect copy in miniature of the first skinny, bejewelled girl. We sat entranced in our jeep on the side of the road and were captivated by the beat of Bali's hypnotic drum.

As life progressed I learned more about the culture of Bali. I learned that children were carried everywhere, held in the protective arms of a family member until three months old. I listened as a priest, dressed in white, chanted a mantra in an ancient language, and watched while an entire village clasped its palms together in prayer. I marvelled at the vibrant offerings prepared for the temple, and the simple gesture of a welcome smile. I saw dance and dramas to evoke the spirits, and shadows that fired the imagination. I learned to love the island.

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