In May 2006 Ann Bouwma and I stayed at the Lion Villa, one of the Tirta Ayu Villas in Tirtagangga. The beautiful gardens and lovely Balinese people gave us a sense of belonging. When Dr. A.A. Made Djelantik was spending one weekend at his countryhouse, we were granted the opportunity to meet him. Ann had read his book The Birthmark earlier that year and was anxious to meet the writer of this valuable document. We had never met Dr. Djelantik before. Nevertheless his welcome to his house was heartwarming. A moment never to forget.

Back in Amsterdam we decided to make an article about the Watergardens of Tirtaggangga and Ujung (http://blog.baliwww.com/guides/682/) and Ann included memories of her conversation with Dr. Djelantik. Among my images of the Watergardens was also the portrait I took of him, standing before the stone carvings that tell his lifestory. For both of us it was a very uplifting experience to meet Dr. A.A. Made Djelantik. May his kindness and wisdom be an inspiration to us all.

Roy Tee

Tirta Ayu Hotel and Restaurant
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