I attended a traditional barong dance this morning at a hall near Kuta. The dance work was simply stunning. The story reminded me so something from Shakespeare, with its harmony of drama, conflict and comedic relief. The acting and dancing was breathtaking. I felt like I was witnessing a spiritual moment. Later, the spiritual moment faded when one of my new "friends" tried to rent me his wife. The inequity of wealth between western visitors and the Balinese has clearly created a cultural shock to this culturally and spiritually rich (and economically destitute) place. I have attempted to interact with the locals as an equal but the reality is that a fully-employed Balinese worker makes between $50 to $100 per month. One cannot interact with such an individual without the fact that I could support an extended family here for a week on what I spend back home for a movie and popcorn. Not withstanding this fact, the people here are beautiful in every way. I am particularly taken with Balinese women. Perhaps, subconsciously, I tend to remember the women names much more readily then the mens'. Go figure. I am watching two bodies being carried down a funeral procession in Denpasar. It is remarkable. There is color and incense and drums as hundreds of people move down the road to the cremation side. I feel honored to be invited to this rare event and am in awe of these people. If there is hope for mankind in this world, I see a glimmer of it here, amongst this noble, strong people.
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