A Picture A Day (Week 5)

Mind Mapping


In Taoism, temples are associated with the dwelling places of celestial god or goddess. "Zhu Ling Gong" is a historical yet cultural temple located a stone throw away from my home. Due to its long time existence, the temple is worn out and struggles with capital for maintenance and rebuilding.

Front view of temple

-Shedding of wall paint
-Color of drawing is fading

Mind mapping is a creative and logical means of note-taking that visually organize information, acts as an aid to solving problems. Under a compulsion to devote my efforts, I personally map out several reliable ideas that can be executed.

Mind map

Below are some methods that have already been implemented.

1. Hold a fundraising event

Taoism embraces the faith that fulfillment of good deeds as well as spreading the love will bring forth good karma. Karma refers to spiritual principle of cause and effect where an individual's actions and intents (cause) influence the future of that individual (effect).


2. Donation for incense sticks & joss papers

There is strong believe that the relationship between humanity and world of gods can be regulated by practicing the ritual of burning incense sticks and joss papers. In addition, followers worship the god by reciprocate with generosity they can afford.

Donation box of temple

Stacks of incense sticks

Joss paper / "Gold paper"

Ritual of burning joss papers

3. Selling flower lanterns & flower baskets

The price list of sale items 

Flower lanterns for RM 38 each

Flower baskets for RM 58 each

Here is an amusing fact that flowers with different colors have special definitions. White color represents son while red-colored flowers stand for daughter. Besides, green color is a symbol of health. Also, yellow-colored flowers mean wealth. Furthermore, pink color implies deep affection.

Contrasting colors create a fantastic appearance

Single color produces harmony

Warm and bright colors deliver joyful feeling

Adherents will list out their wishes on the piece of card attached to the flower lanterns and flower baskets. The flower baskets are hung on the beam in temple. On the other hand, flower lanterns are lit up. These ceremonies are conducted to give blessings. 

4. Puppet Show

A puppet show is a theatre performance in which puppet figures are made to move by puppeteers pulling strings or by putting their hands inside them. Such shows are usually staged on occasions like sacrificial rituals and festive banquets, adding spice to people's life. 

Puppet show in temple

Puppet show is regarded lightly and set aside by the mainstream of our society. We need to find efficient approaches for restoration of dignity of the puppet show in our country. A variety of initiatives should be undertaken to ensure that the vision of cultural heritage is not lost in the tide of modernization.

Ways to Popularize the Puppet Show

Mind map

Through this week's lesson, I learn that there are many social phenomenons around the planet which demand more exploration. Moreover, we can stimulate our senses and obtain mature thinking via mind mapping. I make a note to myself, Always show concern about the issues around us.