King

Today marks the finale of a year of mourning in Thailand. King Rama IX will be cremated in a ceremony this evening. I do not in the least understand all the events and proceedings, but I do know it is solemn and unique occasion. Even all the 7-11's (which are many) and chain supermarket Tesco Lotus stores are closed. Less traffic than usual zooms by on the road in front of our house. English Class and Kids' Club are cancelled this weak. Most people I do spy out the window wear solid black.

Our part in these events are small and peripheral. Last year on October 13, we were riding in a van with church members to participate in a weekend youth retreat. We chatted and kept the children entertained. Then Pastor Winnet (the head pastor) received a call on his phone. As he hung up, he quietly announced that the king had passed. Even though it hadn't been unexpected, we were all a bit stunned. When a man is nearly 89 years old and has served his country for more than 70 years, his passing is a shock.

Everything seemed normal as we arrived at the army owned retreat center on the sea. We began to wonder if Pastor's contact was mistaken. The official public announcement didn't broadcast on television until we were eating our very late supper. Then we all watched as the television showed black and white footage of King Rama IX's life. Philip and I were glad to be in the company of Thais with whom we were comfortable and could ask questions. In those first days, there were many unknowns.We took our cue for how to behave from those around us. We had not packed black clothing, but tried not to wear our most flamboyant shirts and skirts. My outfit options were particularly limited since I was almost 8 months pregnant. The wild outdoor games planned for the youth were switched for calmer activities. Mainly, life went on as usual just a bit subdued.

We chose to participate in the year of mourning recommended by the government by wearing predominately black. Philip felt that it wouldn't be remiss to be considerate to the point of even dressing the children in black. Over a year later, we are still dressed in black, at least when we go out in public. The only time Calla has worn bright colors was during the four weeks we spent in the United States last winter. I don't share this to show how "wonderful" we are for doing this or how much of a "hardship" it has been, but just as a major part of our lives here in Thailand.

Tomorrow will venture outside wearing pinks, blues, purples, flowery skirts, and vivid shirts. It will feel a bit strange. But we are also ready to embrace all the colors of the rainbow back into our wardrobe. For tonight, Philip will be with church members joining hundreds of thousands from all over Thailand to bid farewell to King Rama IX.

Last year, three year old Simeon was a bit confused between King Jesus and King Rama IX; he knew both died but  had trouble remembering which rose again to live forever. After much repetition and encouragement, he now knows that Jesus is the King of the world who reigns forever. We are blessed to know this King and pray that Thailand will come to know Him as well.