The tone was a bit muted as the King of Thailand died only two days earlier. We took the opportunity to remember the life of the King. The youth had more questions than usual and the conversation led to talk about different traditions regarding death and funerals between our home countries and theirs.
One things we found interesting was that they were surprised we use the same words "die" and "death" for everyone. Here in Thailand they use a special language when they talk about the King and it was hard for them to grasp that we don't.
Earlier in the day we had found out it was Kook's birthday. So while Ingrid was playing games with the youth I went out to get a birthday cake. Nice to live in a place where you can go out, get a cake custom decorated, and be back home in 20 minutes! So the tone of the gathering eventually changed to one of celebration.
At the end of our time together, there was a bit of sadness. Since this was our last gathering before we head out on MINA we realized we would not see Gomeen and Kaeo until after we get back. (Kook lives next door, so we will still see her around, but the others live in a village 12 km away.)
We are grateful for the opportunity to share God's love and stories about Jesus to these young people. I'm not sure who benefits more from our meeting together. They learn some English and learn about God. We, on the other hand, are made to feel that just because we are "old" doesn't mean we are irrelevant.
Thank you, God, for putting these wonderful people in our lives.
Be happy with those who are happy, weep with those who weep.
Romans 12:15 NLT
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