Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about culture. I think it’s mostly because I was recently in the States and immersed back in the Western ways. I enjoyed so much about being home, but I think it made me feel the contrast much stronger upon returning to Thailand. I have constantly found myself in situations lately with a renewed excitement and appreciation about this country, culture, and people. Don’t get me wrong, this has nothing to do with contrasting feelings about the US or other nations. In fact, it has gotten me really thinking how special it is that we have so many cultures to learn from and enjoy. What a blessing our differences are and how exciting that we can experience this aspect of life! We have so many varieties of food, dress, customs, dance, music, ways of communicating, etc.
(the most beautiful bathroom in Thailand…)
Last weekend I had the pleasure of going to visit my closest Thai friend who just moved from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. I had a blast going around her city with her and having some adventures. The best part though, was visiting her family in Chiang Khong, just an hour away.
I was the first Westerner to ever come visit them and stay at their home. We had such a special time together! I met so many family members and learned greetings in the Mien language (the family comes from a Mien tribe), which I then practiced each time I met someone new. It was so awesome to see their excitement at just a few simple phrases. They couldn’t believe I knew any words in their language! The reaction was priceless and it always brought so much joy when Kwan’s mother would grab my hand and squeeze it, beaming at me with her beautiful smile.
I had the opportunity to cook with Kwan, her sister, and her mother as well. We made traditional Thai dishes and it was so much fun watching everyone rotate around the kitchen with their different roles in an effort to put together the meal. Kwan’s father was very shy about it, but made an effort to practice some English and I visited with them in Thai or had Kate translate. It’s always such a meaningful experience sharing food with people and having good, intentional time.
After dinner, Kwan had the great idea for us to put on traditional Mien outfits. Her mother and sister came upstairs with us and helped ready us for a fun photo shoot. Her mother was so sweet putting on my “headdress” and making sure I had the best of the jewelry. I was actually quite surprised at how heavy everything was! Afterwards we took photos and I asked Kate if I looked Mien yet. She looked at me for a second and replied, “Maybe from the back?” Haha. I don’t know though…I thought it was a pretty convincing transformation 😉
The next day Kwan and I took two bikes and went riding around the country-side looking out at all the rice fields which will soon be harvested. What a beautiful country! I definitely felt the difference from the city. Life just slows down a little and you remember to enjoy the simple things.
I experienced so much hospitality and love from people who had just met me. They made me a part of their family for a weekend and I will forever be grateful. Upon leaving they voiced over and over that I was always welcome to come back and stay with them and that they hoped I would. They even said that if my parents come to visit Thailand, they are welcome to come visit as well.
I can’t help but compare this cultural experience with other experiences in my life. Every experience in every country is different and that’s what makes it so amazing and special. Last weekend I had the opportunity to slow down again and be really cognizant of the wonders of cultural diversity AND have yet another moment of tremendous love for Thailand. God sure does give good gifts.
