Chet – our flamboyant Thai teacher.

On this morning I came to realize that I was already starting to think it normal to watch elephants wander past the dining room over my coffee. Sitting on a chunky wooden chair, taking in the morning sounds and smells through the open air structure, I forced myself to remember that this was a very abnormal time in my life – in all of our lives – and to suck every precious moment of it dry. Slowly I scanned mountains and jungle, grazing elephants and water buffalo, shelters and tree platforms, strolling mahouts and emerald-green grass. The odd wisp of smoke rose in the distance where tree and scrub burn offs were happening – evidence that progress was thought more of than nature, as happens and has been happening for far too long on Mother Earth. And I was sitting in a wee sheltered paradise where caring people practiced harmony within their little realm, walking their talk of respect and gentleness towards all living things. I took a photo of the scene – one that still affects me when I look at it to this day.

Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Duties called and we were rounded up and offered gloves and long-sleeved shirts and advised to put sunscreen and hats on. We were off to cut corn for the elephants. We climbed into the high-sided work truck and I put on my shades and swirled my scarf over my head and practiced looking windswept and interesting. As you do. Continue reading →