After retiring from my role as a Douglas County Commissioner in Nevada and work for the state of Nevada, I was ready for a change. In 2021, I moved to Sanur, Bali, where I lived for two wonderful years until 2023, before heading to Thailand. Those years in Bali were filled with meaningful moments, new friendships, and lessons about keeping my heart open—what I call “the shape of U” in my book. This post, part of my blog on www.leebonner.com, looks back on that time and how it shaped me.
Settling into Sanur: A Warm Welcome
Sanur welcomed me with its sunny beaches, gentle waves, and a relaxed pace that felt like a breath of fresh air after my busy career. I rented a small villa near the coast, where I could hear faint gamelan music in the evenings. Bali was still quiet from the pandemic, with fewer tourists, which gave me a chance to connect with locals and a friendly expat community, mostly from Australia and Europe.
Two of my favorite people are Brett and Peta and we celebrated many many occasions and I hesitate to think of what Sanur life would have been like if I had not met then the first week I was moved. Others like Lorenz and Anis - Morten and Femmy and their families were also a mainstay of my weekly life. The costume parties were out of this world and so much fun. My government confidante Lutfi and his precious wife Leonie and daughter Tasha were like family to me. I love them all so much.
The Balinese people shared their Tri Hita Karana philosophy—living in harmony with others, nature, and the divine. It lined up with the “shape of U” idea from my book, about staying open to people around you. I saw this at banjar community meetings, where neighbors planned temple ceremonies or worked out local issues together. It reminded me of Ecclesiastes 4:9–10: “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Bali showed me the power of community.
Navigating the Pandemic’s Aftermath with Made and Her Warung
Living in Bali during the tail end of the pandemic meant dealing with some uncertainty. Many businesses were closed, but the locals stayed strong, sharing what they had. I joined a group of expats for weekly dinners at local warung, enjoying the best soto ayam on the island along with my daily es teh manis - sweet tea.
One memory that stands out is visiting Warung Plumeria in my village, run by a woman named Made and her daughter. Despite the challenges from the tourism slowdown, they kept their place going with smiles and warmth, serving up delicious meals. Made taught me bits of Indonesian, insisting I order in the native tongue to practice. Her encouragement to speak and connect in her language was a lesson in humility and openness. I was deeply honored when they invited me to her daughter’s wedding, a vibrant Balinese ceremony filled with music, offerings, and joy. Even more special was being named a “Bule Grandfather” to her daughter’s new baby—a title that touched my heart and made me feel like family. Made lived out 1 John 4:11: “Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” Their kindness inspired a story in The Shape of U, showing how love crosses cultures.
Daily Life with Made: My Housekeeper and Friend
Another Made, my daily housekeeper, became an essential part of my routine in Sanur. She kept my villa spotless but also brought a sense of family to my days. Made would arrive with a cheerful greeting, often sharing stories about her life and family while tidying up. Her quiet efficiency and positive spirit made the villa feel like home. Through our chats, I learned more about Balinese customs and daily life, and she patiently corrected my attempts at Indonesian phrases. It was these simple, everyday interactions that reminded me of the “shape of U”—staying open to the people who enter your world, even in small ways. Made’s dedication echoed Proverbs 31:27: “She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.”
Adventures with Gede: My Driver and Companion
No story of my time in Bali would be complete without Gede, my driver who became a true friend. He drove me everywhere around the island, from bustling markets in Ubud to quiet beaches in the north. Our rides were never just about getting from point A to B—we’d sing along to Indonesian pop songs on the radio, and he’d teach me words in both Indonesian and Balinese. I’d stumble through pronunciations, and we’d laugh about it, turning long drives into fun language lessons. Gede’s knowledge of hidden spots and local history enriched every trip, and his easygoing nature made him the perfect guide. Whether navigating traffic or sharing stories about his family, he embodied the Balinese spirit of hospitality. Our shared adventures, like belting out tunes while cruising past rice terraces, highlighted Ecclesiastes 9:7: “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart.” Gede showed me how companionship on the road—or in life—makes the journey richer, a theme central to living in the shape of a U.
Diving into Adventure: My PADI Certification on Nusa Penida
One of the highlights of my Bali years was getting my PADI Open Water Diver certification on Nusa Penida, a stunning island just a short boat ride from Sanur. I’d always been curious about scuba diving, and Bali’s crystal waters were the perfect place to try it. I signed up with a dive school on Nusa Penida, known for its vibrant coral reefs and manta rays. Over four days, I learned the basics—how to use the gear, manage buoyancy, and stay safe underwater. The course mixed classroom sessions, pool practice, and open-water dives.
My first dive at Manta Point was unforgettable. Gliding through the ocean, surrounded by colorful fish and towering coral, felt like entering a new world. Spotting a manta ray, graceful and massive, was a moment of awe that reminded me of Psalm 104:24–25: “How many are your works, Lord! …The earth is full of your creatures.” That experience taught me to embrace new challenges with an open heart, a theme I explore in The Shape of U. It wasn’t just about diving; it was about trusting the process and leaning into the unknown, much like faith.
A Christmas Eve Journey to the Seven Waters
Another unforgettable adventure was visiting the Seven Waters, a series of sacred springs in Bali, on Christmas Eve 2022. I’d heard about these holy sites, believed by locals to have cleansing and healing powers, and wanted to experience them during the holiday season. My driver, Gede, a kind and knowledgeable Balinese man who’d become a friend, offered to guide me. He explained the ritual: you visit each spring, bathe or splash the water, and offer prayers for purification. It felt like a unique way to reflect on the year and prepare for Christmas.
The journey was an adventure in itself—winding roads, lush rice fields, and tiny villages. At each spring, Gede showed me how to make a small offering of flowers and incense, a Balinese tradition. As a Christian, I prayed my own prayers, thanking God for His guidance, which felt like a bridge between my faith and Bali’s spirituality. Standing in the cool, clear water of the final spring, I thought of John 4:14, where Jesus speaks of “a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Gede’s patience and stories about the springs’ history made the day special, reminding me how shared experiences build connection, a key part of living in the shape of a U.
Leading Worship: Singing in Bahasa Indonesia and English
One of the most meaningful experiences in Bali was leading worship at two local churches—one in Bahasa Indonesia and another in English. A friend invited me to All Peoples Church in Denpasar, led by Pastor Matt Kirk, where I helped lead worship, singing hymns in Bahasa Indonesia. Learning the lyrics was a challenge, but the congregation’s warmth made it feel like home. Songs like “How Great Is Our God” (or “Betapa Hebat Tuhan Kita”) took on a new depth as I sang alongside locals, their voices lifting in unity. It reminded me of Psalm 96:1: “Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.”
I also joined Gateway Community Church in Sanur, led by Pastor Wade, where I led worship in English with familiar hymns and contemporary songs. The mix of cultures—expats and some Balinese Christians—created a beautiful blend of voices. Leading in both languages showed me how worship transcends words, uniting us in praising God’s greatness. These moments of shared faith, whether in Bahasa or English, reinforced the “shape of U” idea of staying open to others, no matter their background, and became stories I wove into my book.
Finding Purpose with Old Friends: John and Isaac
Even in retirement, I found myself drawn to new opportunities that gave me purpose. In 2022, I started working part-time with a new company alongside two dear friends, John and Isaac, whom I’ve known for over 28 years since their high school days. John and I have collaborated on several ventures over the years, and joining them again in Bali felt like a gift. They’re two of the smartest men I know, and their invitation to work together not only filled my idle time but also challenged me to grow in new ways. Initially, I was overseeing a team in India, which kept me engaged and connected across borders. This work ultimately led to my move to Thailand in 2023 to be closer to India for easier collaboration. Our long history and shared journey reminded me of Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Being part of their venture kept me connected to them in unique ways and gave me a renewed sense of purpose, aligning with the “shape of U” by staying open to meaningful relationships and new challenges.
Embracing Bali’s Culture and Spirit
Bali’s spiritual side is everywhere—temples on every corner, daily flower offerings, a quiet sense of gratitude. As a Christian, I didn’t share all their beliefs, but I admired their dedication. Watching a Kecak dance, with its chanting and firelit storytelling, felt like Psalm 150’s call to “praise him with the clash of cymbals.” It encouraged me to be more intentional in my own faith.
I also took a stab at batik painting in a local art class. My early attempts were rough, but my teacher, Made, was patient. “It’s not about the cloth,” he said, “but what you learn while making it.” That stuck with me, tying into Philippians 1:6 about God continuing His work in us. It was a reminder to keep learning and growing, no matter the outcome.
Witnessing Ogoh-Ogoh and the Silence of Nyepi
One of the most striking cultural events I experienced was the Ogoh-Ogoh parade and the following Nyepi Day of Silence. The night before Nyepi, the streets came alive with massive, colorful demon statues—ogoh-ogoh—crafted by local communities and paraded with music and energy to scare away evil spirits. It was a chaotic, joyful spectacle, ending with the statues often being burned, symbolizing purification. Then came Nyepi, a full day of silence where everything shut down—no lights, no noise, no work—just time for reflection and introspection. As someone used to a busy life, that enforced quiet was profound, reminding me of Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Participating in these traditions, even as an observer, deepened my appreciation for Bali’s spiritual depth and taught me about letting go of negativity to make room for new beginnings, much like keeping my life open in the shape of a U.
Moving to Thailand, Carrying Bali Forward
By 2023, I felt ready for a new chapter, so I moved to Thailand to be closer to India for my work with John and Isaac. Leaving Sanur was tough—I’d made great friends and learned so much. Bali taught me to live in the shape of a U, staying open to new people, ideas, and experiences. It’s a mindset I’ve brought to Thailand, and I’m excited to share more about it in my weekly posts.
Next week, I’ll talk about my first days in Thailand and how this new place is shaping my journey. For now, I’m thankful for Bali’s lessons in community, resilience, and faith, which I carry with me as I write The Shape of U and try to live it every day.
Questions to Think About
Settling into Sanur: A Warm Welcome
Sanur welcomed me with its sunny beaches, gentle waves, and a relaxed pace that felt like a breath of fresh air after my busy career. I rented a small villa near the coast, where I could hear faint gamelan music in the evenings. Bali was still quiet from the pandemic, with fewer tourists, which gave me a chance to connect with locals and a friendly expat community, mostly from Australia and Europe.
Two of my favorite people are Brett and Peta and we celebrated many many occasions and I hesitate to think of what Sanur life would have been like if I had not met then the first week I was moved. Others like Lorenz and Anis - Morten and Femmy and their families were also a mainstay of my weekly life. The costume parties were out of this world and so much fun. My government confidante Lutfi and his precious wife Leonie and daughter Tasha were like family to me. I love them all so much.
The Balinese people shared their Tri Hita Karana philosophy—living in harmony with others, nature, and the divine. It lined up with the “shape of U” idea from my book, about staying open to people around you. I saw this at banjar community meetings, where neighbors planned temple ceremonies or worked out local issues together. It reminded me of Ecclesiastes 4:9–10: “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Bali showed me the power of community.
Navigating the Pandemic’s Aftermath with Made and Her Warung
Living in Bali during the tail end of the pandemic meant dealing with some uncertainty. Many businesses were closed, but the locals stayed strong, sharing what they had. I joined a group of expats for weekly dinners at local warung, enjoying the best soto ayam on the island along with my daily es teh manis - sweet tea.
One memory that stands out is visiting Warung Plumeria in my village, run by a woman named Made and her daughter. Despite the challenges from the tourism slowdown, they kept their place going with smiles and warmth, serving up delicious meals. Made taught me bits of Indonesian, insisting I order in the native tongue to practice. Her encouragement to speak and connect in her language was a lesson in humility and openness. I was deeply honored when they invited me to her daughter’s wedding, a vibrant Balinese ceremony filled with music, offerings, and joy. Even more special was being named a “Bule Grandfather” to her daughter’s new baby—a title that touched my heart and made me feel like family. Made lived out 1 John 4:11: “Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” Their kindness inspired a story in The Shape of U, showing how love crosses cultures.
Daily Life with Made: My Housekeeper and Friend
Another Made, my daily housekeeper, became an essential part of my routine in Sanur. She kept my villa spotless but also brought a sense of family to my days. Made would arrive with a cheerful greeting, often sharing stories about her life and family while tidying up. Her quiet efficiency and positive spirit made the villa feel like home. Through our chats, I learned more about Balinese customs and daily life, and she patiently corrected my attempts at Indonesian phrases. It was these simple, everyday interactions that reminded me of the “shape of U”—staying open to the people who enter your world, even in small ways. Made’s dedication echoed Proverbs 31:27: “She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.”
Adventures with Gede: My Driver and Companion
No story of my time in Bali would be complete without Gede, my driver who became a true friend. He drove me everywhere around the island, from bustling markets in Ubud to quiet beaches in the north. Our rides were never just about getting from point A to B—we’d sing along to Indonesian pop songs on the radio, and he’d teach me words in both Indonesian and Balinese. I’d stumble through pronunciations, and we’d laugh about it, turning long drives into fun language lessons. Gede’s knowledge of hidden spots and local history enriched every trip, and his easygoing nature made him the perfect guide. Whether navigating traffic or sharing stories about his family, he embodied the Balinese spirit of hospitality. Our shared adventures, like belting out tunes while cruising past rice terraces, highlighted Ecclesiastes 9:7: “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart.” Gede showed me how companionship on the road—or in life—makes the journey richer, a theme central to living in the shape of a U.
Diving into Adventure: My PADI Certification on Nusa Penida
One of the highlights of my Bali years was getting my PADI Open Water Diver certification on Nusa Penida, a stunning island just a short boat ride from Sanur. I’d always been curious about scuba diving, and Bali’s crystal waters were the perfect place to try it. I signed up with a dive school on Nusa Penida, known for its vibrant coral reefs and manta rays. Over four days, I learned the basics—how to use the gear, manage buoyancy, and stay safe underwater. The course mixed classroom sessions, pool practice, and open-water dives.
My first dive at Manta Point was unforgettable. Gliding through the ocean, surrounded by colorful fish and towering coral, felt like entering a new world. Spotting a manta ray, graceful and massive, was a moment of awe that reminded me of Psalm 104:24–25: “How many are your works, Lord! …The earth is full of your creatures.” That experience taught me to embrace new challenges with an open heart, a theme I explore in The Shape of U. It wasn’t just about diving; it was about trusting the process and leaning into the unknown, much like faith.
A Christmas Eve Journey to the Seven Waters
Another unforgettable adventure was visiting the Seven Waters, a series of sacred springs in Bali, on Christmas Eve 2022. I’d heard about these holy sites, believed by locals to have cleansing and healing powers, and wanted to experience them during the holiday season. My driver, Gede, a kind and knowledgeable Balinese man who’d become a friend, offered to guide me. He explained the ritual: you visit each spring, bathe or splash the water, and offer prayers for purification. It felt like a unique way to reflect on the year and prepare for Christmas.
The journey was an adventure in itself—winding roads, lush rice fields, and tiny villages. At each spring, Gede showed me how to make a small offering of flowers and incense, a Balinese tradition. As a Christian, I prayed my own prayers, thanking God for His guidance, which felt like a bridge between my faith and Bali’s spirituality. Standing in the cool, clear water of the final spring, I thought of John 4:14, where Jesus speaks of “a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Gede’s patience and stories about the springs’ history made the day special, reminding me how shared experiences build connection, a key part of living in the shape of a U.
Leading Worship: Singing in Bahasa Indonesia and English
One of the most meaningful experiences in Bali was leading worship at two local churches—one in Bahasa Indonesia and another in English. A friend invited me to All Peoples Church in Denpasar, led by Pastor Matt Kirk, where I helped lead worship, singing hymns in Bahasa Indonesia. Learning the lyrics was a challenge, but the congregation’s warmth made it feel like home. Songs like “How Great Is Our God” (or “Betapa Hebat Tuhan Kita”) took on a new depth as I sang alongside locals, their voices lifting in unity. It reminded me of Psalm 96:1: “Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.”
I also joined Gateway Community Church in Sanur, led by Pastor Wade, where I led worship in English with familiar hymns and contemporary songs. The mix of cultures—expats and some Balinese Christians—created a beautiful blend of voices. Leading in both languages showed me how worship transcends words, uniting us in praising God’s greatness. These moments of shared faith, whether in Bahasa or English, reinforced the “shape of U” idea of staying open to others, no matter their background, and became stories I wove into my book.
Finding Purpose with Old Friends: John and Isaac
Even in retirement, I found myself drawn to new opportunities that gave me purpose. In 2022, I started working part-time with a new company alongside two dear friends, John and Isaac, whom I’ve known for over 28 years since their high school days. John and I have collaborated on several ventures over the years, and joining them again in Bali felt like a gift. They’re two of the smartest men I know, and their invitation to work together not only filled my idle time but also challenged me to grow in new ways. Initially, I was overseeing a team in India, which kept me engaged and connected across borders. This work ultimately led to my move to Thailand in 2023 to be closer to India for easier collaboration. Our long history and shared journey reminded me of Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Being part of their venture kept me connected to them in unique ways and gave me a renewed sense of purpose, aligning with the “shape of U” by staying open to meaningful relationships and new challenges.
Embracing Bali’s Culture and Spirit
Bali’s spiritual side is everywhere—temples on every corner, daily flower offerings, a quiet sense of gratitude. As a Christian, I didn’t share all their beliefs, but I admired their dedication. Watching a Kecak dance, with its chanting and firelit storytelling, felt like Psalm 150’s call to “praise him with the clash of cymbals.” It encouraged me to be more intentional in my own faith.
I also took a stab at batik painting in a local art class. My early attempts were rough, but my teacher, Made, was patient. “It’s not about the cloth,” he said, “but what you learn while making it.” That stuck with me, tying into Philippians 1:6 about God continuing His work in us. It was a reminder to keep learning and growing, no matter the outcome.
Witnessing Ogoh-Ogoh and the Silence of Nyepi
One of the most striking cultural events I experienced was the Ogoh-Ogoh parade and the following Nyepi Day of Silence. The night before Nyepi, the streets came alive with massive, colorful demon statues—ogoh-ogoh—crafted by local communities and paraded with music and energy to scare away evil spirits. It was a chaotic, joyful spectacle, ending with the statues often being burned, symbolizing purification. Then came Nyepi, a full day of silence where everything shut down—no lights, no noise, no work—just time for reflection and introspection. As someone used to a busy life, that enforced quiet was profound, reminding me of Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Participating in these traditions, even as an observer, deepened my appreciation for Bali’s spiritual depth and taught me about letting go of negativity to make room for new beginnings, much like keeping my life open in the shape of a U.
Moving to Thailand, Carrying Bali Forward
By 2023, I felt ready for a new chapter, so I moved to Thailand to be closer to India for my work with John and Isaac. Leaving Sanur was tough—I’d made great friends and learned so much. Bali taught me to live in the shape of a U, staying open to new people, ideas, and experiences. It’s a mindset I’ve brought to Thailand, and I’m excited to share more about it in my weekly posts.
Next week, I’ll talk about my first days in Thailand and how this new place is shaping my journey. For now, I’m thankful for Bali’s lessons in community, resilience, and faith, which I carry with me as I write The Shape of U and try to live it every day.
Questions to Think About
- How has a challenging time, like the pandemic, brought you closer to others?
- What’s something you’ve learned from another culture that’s shaped your perspective?
- What new skill or adventure has pushed you to grow recently?
- How can a shared experience, like a ritual or journey, build connection in your life?
- How has music or worship helped you connect with others across cultures?
- Who in your daily life has taught you something unexpected, like a language or custom?
- How have long-time friendships given you purpose or challenged you to grow?
- How can moments of silence or reflection renew your spirit?
- How can you stay open to new people or ideas in your life today?
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