When I was born in 1938 the country was called Siam. The year after it was changed to Thailand (The land of the free) During the war like many countries, events where difficult and they experienced mixed alliances,
About this time a Francis Meilland introduced to the World this epic rose variety which even today graces gardens throughout the World. It was renamed PEACE to commemorate the end of the second World War
Back on Jan 7 2015 we heard about the awful attack on Charlie Hebdo's magazine head quarters in Paris France, also killing many innocents. Following this on our T.V. screens we saw protesters from all over the World carrying placards stating "I AM CHARLIE" to show their disdain to the attackers.
"I AM SIAM" is my small voice from the other side of the World stating my support for the people of Thailand at this sad time.
In all my travels never have I come across a country where the people are so friendly and tolerant as the Thai.
How could anyone think about hurting these gentle people. Their approach to life is a shining example many in the West would be well advised to take notice of.
Being a Christian I do not share their religious views but I admire their dedication. Everywhere you go you see the shrines, some elaborate like the Erawon shrine in Bangkok, others may be modest set up outside their place of business or homes and even on the beach. Every day they will light incense, leave gifts and pray.
Similarly with the monarchy their love of the King is so apparent with portraits of the King in all public places and in their homes. Then of course on leaving Thailand there is the huge royal pictures on the exterior of the departure level of Suvarnadhumi Airport. I like to think this display is saying to us tourists "Hurry back soon"
Unfortunately like every country there are going to be some evil people and the nature of the terrorist threat these days, it does not need very many.
But if the perpetrators of this bomb attack think they can scare away tourists, I personally am more determined than ever to visit Thailand whenever I can and this sentiment is likely shared by many.
So I pray for peace, not only for Thailand but also for strong World leaders that can fight this World Wide threat that is destroying so many lives.