Full Moon Celebration

This was such an awesome experience.
[the First Full Moon in the Lunar New Year]
We noticed on the beach around Friday that they were building this giant mountain out of tree branches and tinder, with a full size pine looking tree sticking out of the top; like a toothpick stuck in the top of a cupcake. We went back to the beach on Sunday night to see if we could find any more information. There was now a table placed in front of the mountains cave hole. The table had a pigs head, with money in its ears (good luck) as well as food, incense and other things. They were offerings placed there by whoever wanted to make a wish and say a prayer for good luck in the New Year.
On Monday morning we finally asked some one when this was going to be lit on fire, it was 6pm. There were already a number of people finding a good spot for the festivities at around 10am. We arrived at the beach just in time. It was timed perfectly. The tinder mountain was lit, and just as the tree on the top was engulfed in flames, the full moon came into view. At first I was wondering why people were turning away from the fire and bowing, then I looked, DUH! The moon was huge and so bright.
The feeling was so vibrant on the beach, it was a lot of fun. As part of the ritual people could write there wishes on pieces of paper and throw it into the fire. Once the fire was blazing all the paper and ash was falling into our hair, it was a good time to move around and check out what else was there.
On the other side of the so called mountain was a stage with lots of lights, music and dancing. It was so exciting. We stood there for a while just getting a feel for it. Soon enough people were coming up to us and asking us if we knew what the celebration was for. It was very helpful and nice. I really wanted to get into the middle and dance, but you know Mark, no go. I went with a Korean lady instead. She was happy, I was happy. She took me into a circle of traditionally dressed women, and they started to show me how to dance. An easy move with the shoulders, apparently I was a little tight;). They then taught me a line to sing, _____________. It means good luck and happiness for the New Year. It was such a fun time, to get caught in the crowd, singing and dancing. Some people took the opportunity to take a picture of the whitey, but I was doing the same, so.....
Overall it was such an awesome experience, I actually felt like an anthropologist! I don't get that feeling very often. But I also felt for that brief moment relaxed and happy and not stressed about my struggles in Korea. I reflect on that moment often.