On the last full moon, I went to Melanting Temple in the northwest of Bali with my in-laws. I’ve been there before, but this visit felt more peaceful—more special.
As we entered the temple, I could hear the soft sound of gamelan and smell the incense in the air. Many people were already there—families sitting together, talking quietly while getting ready to pray. Children sat beside their parents, and some people were placing offerings. It felt calm, but full of life.
I sat with my in-laws in the temple courtyard. When the priest started to chant, everyone became quiet. The prayer went on for a while, and when it was time to receive holy water and rice, I felt calm and thankful.
After the prayer, I walked around the temple. The full moon was shining above the gate, and the whole place looked beautiful in the moonlight. There was nothing loud or grand—it was just peaceful.
I took a short walk around the temple after the ceremony. The full moon made the temple look even more beautiful. I saw the gates and the statue of Dang Hyang Nirartha. The night was calm, and the atmosphere stayed with me even after I left the temple.
One thing that I remember, is how peaceful the night was. The chant, the sound of gamelan, and the fragrance smell of incense in the air will stick in my mind. Sometimes, it’s not the big events that stay in your memory—but the ones that make yo feel peaceful. That night reminded me how special it is to be present, to feel grateful, and to take time to pause.
