I've traveled to some 17 or more lesser "developed" countries in the world, 13 of them on the Mother Continent of Africa. This is my first time in South East Asia. And each time, I visit places, communities, and touch the people of the land, I'm reminded that our Western ideals demand questioning and challenging. Somehow the idea of a "city of lights on a hill" and prosperity has come to be associated with literal bling and material rather than enlightened consciousness and deep spiritual connection. While walking the rice fields this morning, I encountered this elder gentleman who invited me to sit with him (in his native tongue which I did not understand) to sort the rice harvest on his small square plot. We sorted and organized the stems just so. I passed my small bundles of about 20 or so stems to him. He placed them at his feet just so, until there was a beautiful bouquet. And then he dressed and decorated it and placed it, not on the woven tray to carry, but at the alter as sacrifice. He did so with a smile so wide and a spirit of peace. And then we paused and prayed. Moments later we resumed sorting the final stems, placing them on the woven tray carrier at his bare feet. I helped him lift the tray, ensuring the little stems didn't fall or shift. He looked at me. Put the tray back down and hugged me with his face. In that moment, I was reminded that the harvest is not only plenty but that prosperity is abound--if we choose to recognize it not for all of the "things" we seek but the peace, love, joy and ease that we all have an opportunity to experience any and everywhere, where God is. So what does it mean to prosper? With your soul? You tell me. #baliisablessing #morningmindset #prosper #beautifullessons #TaiInBali