Enter this Temple (Part 1)

At the Mussenden Temple in Northern Ireland —and for no apparent reason —the most fascinating occurrences kept on happening. They would take place for an 11 month cycle and after a three month pause, they'd restart again. But in one exotic and inexplicable event --which didn't repeat itself and only lasted six months-- people would suddenly feel devoid of any pain or distress of any kind. No one could even begin to understand what was taking place in that temple but complete comfort and relief was felt by everyone. It started suddenly one average day without warning. Nobody saw any signs that anything different was about to happen and the chief monk at the temple was as mum as anyone else. Nothing was asked of anyone and there were no fees or requirements at all. Nobody needed to guard the entrance. Once you passed those heavy old oak doors which smelled like thyme, all your bad sensations and medical conditions ceased completely. Town folk, naturally, were suggesting it's the work of God upon his faithful. Others were praising magic from the elders and the rest of course were certain it was the Devil's doing. The only thing that everyone had in common is that they had to go in there and see for themselves. They were many skeptics, including educators and teachers. Scientists started to gather outside with some measuring equipment, more and more each day. The people were in a frenzy, some couldn't control their emotions exalted beyond themselves yelling "It's a miracle!" Others shouted "Thank you, Jesus!" But not everybody was persuaded this phenomenon was actually happening. Logically inclined, they were doubting this could in any way be a natural occurrence. But in general the townspeople didn't look or care for explanations. Some were scared, some with heavy doubts, some wild eyed as they repeated the experience many times over, going out and then back in. The same results were obtained in each case. No pain, no aches, no illnesses. Just a incredibly comfortable sense of bliss. All good while it lasted and many flocked from faraway places to experience this incredible treat. By the time reality set in, one major question was in everyone's lips: What was happening at the Mussenden temple, and more importantly, how long will it last?"

As more and more folks descended upon the magic temple --as it was known by now--, the whole scene was surreal. There were people walking around, seemingly directionless , others apparently in a trance of sorts, while others gathered together in a circle, thanking and praying. The air was clean and a breeze caressed everybody's faces as if the weather also had been on it, whatever 'it' might've been. The science people walked around frantically talking, interviewing as many subjects they could find willingly able to bother with such small deeds. It was another world. One thing was certain, no one could make sense of what was happening and after the initial shock, they didn't even care. The feeling of being free of pain, disease, or depression was good enough for now. 

After the first day, tents started springing everywhere and in a short time, the entire land became an improvised village. The larger tents became dormitories for single women with or without babies, but that arrangement didn't turn out too well since not all the cribbers were quiet. And not all the mothers were tolerant. A few days passed without major incidents. The mood was settling and there was a sense of calm that everyone seemed to greatly enjoy. 

Of course they did. 

There was no more pain.

(End of part 1)

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