Arrived back on Saturday morning after 3 glorious weeks in Bali. One of the highlights of our holiday was the paddle for peace on Sunday 12th Oct, to remember the victims of the two bombings and pray for a peaceful Bali. My husband, daughter and her boyfriend were all involved in the paddle, along with a hundred or so other surfers. After some music on the beach and a few words from officials, the surfers headed out into the ocean. The swell was almost non existent this day, however as the surfers headed to the shore line, a massive set rolled in, like a sign from above. The waves kept on coming until all the riders were beyond the waves were they formed a human circle , a prayer was said and they all splashed into the air.
From the beach the sight was fantastic, many hundreds of people had gathered to watch and a feeling of peace came over the crowd as we all observed a minute of silence to remember the victims.
6 white doves were released by the families of those lost, as the riders paddled back in to shore and 22 baby turtles were then released into the ocean (for the 22 nationalities involved). My 12 year old son was lucky enough to be asked to release a turtle by the lovely Balinese gentleman who organized the paddle.( I apologize that I cannot remember his name)
I know that this will be a memory he will never forget. As the board riders hit the shore and the turtles were released thousands of flower petals were thrown into the air and covered most of us.
As the sun set a candle lit prayer was said before we headed home with memories that will be with us always.