One of the reasons that my experience here in Thailand has been so special and unique is due to the fact that King Bhumibol just passed away in October. King Bhumibol ruled for 70 years, making him the longest reigning Thai monarch ever. The King was beloved and the Thai people are still in mourning. I have to make sure to respect the Royal Family above all else and adhere to the Thai customs. This means I wear only black or white while teaching, wear a black ribbon at other times and cannot be too joyous around any memorials. This also means that I have the chance to witness the intense devotion the Thais had for their King firsthand. 

December 5th was Father’s Day in Thailand. It’s actually King Bhumibol’s Birthday but it is known as Father’s Day because he was considered the Father of Thailand. There was a memorial ceremony outside of the palace in Hua Hin and we were invited to join the people from XploreAsia that were going. I definitely did not want to miss it. 

We walked up to the main road that goes by the palace and it was closed off from cars. Hundreds of people were gathered in the street and there were food stalls. There were lights strung up across the road and a group of Thai dancers all holding ornate candle votives. The performances were beautiful. It was mezmorising watching the dances and musicians convey the melancholy that was felt by this collective group. Candles were handed out and everyone lit them and had a moment of silence. I was incredibly moved that I was able to be a part of this ritual. 

As much as you could truly feel the pain the Thais felt as they remembered their King, when I asked our Thai Mom from XploreAsia if she was sad she nodded and then said she was also happy and clutched her chest. Amidst their mourning the Thais held on to the love they felt for their King and celebrated that love. I was in awe of their spirit and unity. It was one of many ways the Thai people have already changed my perspective.