Living in a small city in the middle of farm country is great but there is really not too much to do. I have hung out with the other English teachers, which I enjoy, but I was also interested in pursuing my own social life. This happened more easily than I expected. One Friday night I went out walking to get some street food and wander and familiarize myself with the city more. As I walked by a group of Thais eating on a small side street they beckoned me to come over, then insisted that I sit down and join them; I have been trying to always say yes and try new things so I did.
As it turns out, one of the men owns the restaurant and every Friday he hosts a get together for his friends. He brought out dish after dish of incredibly delicious authentic Thai food. There was wine and later whiskey and soda(which kept getting refilled). The language barrier was a struggle but they knew some English and taught me some Thai, and got a real kick out of my abhorrent pronunciation. Any time there was a lull they would just raise their glass and we would cheers, hence the drinks getting refilled so often. It was wonderful hanging out with locals and seeing the kindness and generosity that the Thais are known for. I was invited to return every Friday, which I have done whenever I’m in town and the nights have been filled with laughter, losses in translation, food and drinks, as well as the Thais mocking me for getting drunk while they insist on pouring me more whiskey(not that I’m complaining).
I’ve met many Thais at these weekly reunions. It’s not the same group every time. There have been some regulars but then new faces as well. The owner’s 8 year old daughter is also around, she was shy at first but likes talking to me and I’m trying to get her to practice her English with me but she gets embarrassed. One couple that I met on the first Friday night took me out to lunch the next weekend. I told them I liked everything so they ordered for me. The food was wonderful but included a dish called Khun Then which translates to ‘dancing shrimp’ because the tiny crawfish are still alive! They are tossed with lime, spices, and shallots and you just grab a spoonful and quickly pop it in your mouth and chew….fast. My jaw dropped and Julie shook her head and said, “I no have,” as she pointed at her husband. He is the one who likes them so I watched him first and then tried one. It was certainly something I’ve never done before and I have to admit, it was delicious.
I’m so thankful to have been welcomed so by the Thai people. It is important to me to build relationships while I am here and to push myself out of the western bubble that I could so easily exist within. I have already been exposed to experiences that I would never have had on my own. I’m excited about what is to come as I continue to build my friendships as well as meet new people.
The Voyager 