Living in Kamala for almost a year, I am pretty much settled in, but every now and then something comes along to keep life interesting.
Last week a few of us from work were invited to a monk ordination ceremony. I was excited as it certainly wasn’t something that you see everyday. Friday morning I dressed in my best ‘polite clothes’ (necessary for monks & anything to do with the government) and set off.
As we drove towards the temple we realised we we stuck in the parade. Yes, a parade for the monk. People were walking down the street in a procession lead by a band, Thai dancers and and elephant with the monk (dressed beautifully in white) on top.
As the morning went on, we took part in everything – parading around a specific temple 3 times (again, following the elephant), praying, feeding the monk and feasting with the guests. It was quite an experience.
Halfway through the ceremony I realised there was something slight different about this – there was only one monk. Usually they get ordained in groups, but this monk is from a well-to-do Phuket family and got a day all for himself.
In Thailand all men are encouraged to become a monk. You can stay in for as little as a week, or for as long as you like. You can then come back anytime throughout your life for any period you choose. Our monk had planned to go in for a couple of weeks, but told his dad halfway through that he might stay for 3-4 months!
It was a wonderful experience & knowing we were the only fareng (foreigners) there made it all the more special.
A monk watching us from the window
The guest of honour
