(^60) 21-25 August - Puchong
I hardly did anything, apart from chatting with Peter and his family.
Another guest, Carolina from Brazil, also stayed there and helped
Peter with his garden. Carolina was a lovely, energetic lady who
always looked for ways to help. She was part of a wonderful
programme called HelpX, which allowed members to stay with locals
for free in return for helping them with various tasks.
The days slipped by unnoticed. At last, I have organised for my
passport (still in South Africa) to be sent to Malaysia. Then,
surprisingly, my laptop returned to life and seemed to work fine.
It turned out to be the Hungry Ghost Festival. In ancient Chinese folk
culture, people believed this was a month of ghosts. It’s thought that
the gates of hell are thrown open, releasing hungry ghosts to wander
the Earth in search of food. During this time, people placed food and
paper money outside, and at temples, they burned exquisite paper
houses, cars, mobile phones, and even paper shoes, so the spirits
didn’t have to go barefoot. These ghosts are believed to be
unfortunate souls who committed evil deeds in their former lives,
including overeating, drinking, gambling, and smoking. A substantial
amount of these items is put out for these sad souls. If that’s indeed
the case, I am doomed to become a hungry ghost. LOL.
Puchong
Peter drove us to the nearby Hindu temple. The temple was brand
new, and parts were still being painted. Hindu temples are
elaborately decorated, and the architecture is simply breathtaking. I
understand that artisans were brought in from India.
leana
(Leana)
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