Friday Came

I completed my first full week at Naresuan and managed to have a bit of leisure too. Haven't really stopped since I got here but the pace is ok, not that frantic level like back at home. My constituents are starting to come to see me about their research which is one key reason I am here.

I was treated to a ceremony which is akin to an Awards Ceremony at home. About 200 students gathered to honor their teachers and when I can post the pics and videos (be patient with me) you will hardly believe what you see/hear. The students regularly bow with hands folded as in prayer when someone "higher" passes by. I was cautioned not to return the bow but I can't help but acknowledge by nonverbals. I notice right off that the other faculty do not, however, basically walking past unphased with no eye contact or a nod acknowledging the student gesture. Very hierarchical, like when we are saluted as we enter in the van each day--a man in some type of uniform standing sentry at the kiosk for the U.

Anyway the ceremony consisted of the opening prayer and chant from the students. Then the incoming students filed  up to the faculty who bestowed upon them a string tied around the wrist symbolizing good luck and good health. It's a gesture of respect for the wisdom and reverence to Buddha who is represented by those more senior in some way, including age or position, with students pretty low on any scale so their "string" comes from faculty (mine came from the Dept Administrator, my new friend named "Ampa", emphasis on second syllable).

The associate Dean represented the school; she bowed three times to Buddha (once for Buddha, second for his teachings, third for his instuments, the Monks). She courtsied to the pic of the King, returning to her seat for the presentation of gifts to faculty. Students lined up with flowers and other gifts rec'd by her, students crawling on their knees approaching her and the faculty with flower baskets in their arms. The gifts were hauled away by two obliging young male students and the whole event ended with the national song. I hope to soon post the pics and YouTube the videos. They are a must see!

More on the actual work later, gotta run. Ampa arranged for the masseuse to come to my hotel room -300 bhat for 2 hours of Thai massage. The lady just knocked on my door, took my laundry and presumably will return shortly. Oh, and I don't have to do anything to help myself at the office. Around 10 am someone comes in with a dish of beans or the multicolored sponge cakes w mango. A faculty member shows me the food trough for lunch and someone brings semi-sweet dumplings around 2. And at least 2 of the 5 nights a group took me to dinner.

Last night was the best Thai-Vietnamese food I ever dreamed of. Gotta go, Meong is back for massage.