Turtle and The Luhur Flowers

In a small village in Bali, there lived a wise old turtle named Kawi. Kawi was the guardian of a luhur flower garden that was revered by the villagers because it was considered to bring blessings. The garden was a place where the villagers gathered to pray for prosperity.

Once upon a time, the village experienced a severe drought, causing the fields to dry up and the water source to disappear. The villagers panicked and gathered at the temple to beg the gods to send rain. One night, while meditating in his small garden filled with luhur flowers, Kawi remembered the legend of a sacred pool at the top of Mount Agung. It was said that the pool had the power to restore clear, flowing water, but it would only appear to those whose intentions were truly sincere.

Kawi, the Guardian of the Noble Flower (Source: Personal Collection)

With strong determination, Kawi left the comfort of his garden and began a perilous journey to the sacred pool. The journey was not easy. The path was rocky and steep, the cold wind pierced his bones, but Kawi's steps remained unwavering. On the way, he met a wise owl named Ulan, who offered her help after learning of Kawi's good intentions.

Ulan, the Kind Owl (Source: Personal Collection)

"Your journey will not be easy, Kawi. The cave is full of traps and dangerous creatures," Ulan said with a sharp gaze. Kawi nodded, accepting the help of his new friend. Together, they passed through obstacle after obstacle, until finally arriving at the cave where the sacred pool was located.

Goddess of the Sacred Pool of Mount Agung (Source: Personal Collection)

Upon arrival at the cave, Kawi was surprised to find the holy pool dry. He felt very hopeless. In front of the dry pond, suddenly appeared the soft voice of a goddess sparkling behind the thin mist. The goddess gave Kawi a condition, to prove her sincerity, she had to sacrifice something very valuable. Kawi thought of the luhur flowers he had so lovingly tended in his garden. Even though his heart was heavy, he knew that the safety of the village was more important. With a unanimous decision, Kawi offered a large flower as a sacrifice.

The Holy Water Flow of Mount Agung (Source: Personal Collection)

When the flower was placed on the edge of the pond, clear water immediately began to flow, filling the previously dry pond. A soft light radiated from the water, illuminating the dark cave. Kawi watched the miracle in amazement.

When Kawi returned to the village with the holy water, he found the village badly damaged by drought. The houses were in ruins, the fields were cracked, and the remaining villagers had lost hope. However, Kawi did not give up. He poured the holy water on the village land, and slowly, a miracle happened. The dry land began to moisten, the plants grew green again, and new flowers bloomed.

Saved Village Scenery (Source: Personal Collection)

Although the village began to recover, Kawi felt a sense of loss because he could not tend the luhur flower garden that had been a part of his life. However, he found joy in the revival of the village and the people who were grateful for his sacrifice. Kawi realized that sometimes, sacrifices made for others are a price to pay for the greater good. After all, he felt at peace, knowing that he had given his village hope and new life.

Thus, despite losing his precious garden, Kawi has found his purpose in helping others and keeping the village alive.