A different kind of Christmas tree

Today is Christmas day and, other than being 20 degrees outside, this morning has started like most other Christmas mornings. One, then the next, child crawl into bed with us for a snuggle. And a few minutes in, they ask if we can open our stockings. Great kids... we are fortunate, I am grateful (most days <smile/>).

Today we took the opportunity to participate in a Buddhist forest blessing ceremony. This has been in the works for many years, and fortunately our hosts in Mae Rim are very involved in the community. So instead of a single Christmas tree in our home we had a forest full of trees to bless with Monks, community members, dignitaries, military and law enforcement personel, and many others (locals and come from aways). The ceremony was a gift in itself; many words spoken in Thai, chanting and prayers, burning of incense, adornments that tied everything together, the sprinkling of sacred water, and the tying of cloth ribbons around many trees. A forest full of trees.

The forest blessing is for many reasons, many I don't know because I don't yet understand spoken Thai. Khun Penom, Kai and I walked the whole perimeter of the forest yesterday to create a simple survey of the forest dimensions. Khun Penom said the forest needs protection for it is a community watershed and contains a significant reservoir, and because people are pushing there property boundaries into this public land. That is the gist of it, I am sure there is much more.

What an amazing way to spent the first part of Christmas day. Engaged in a community and spiritual event dedicated to protecting a small part of our precious planet. The graciousness and joy found in all who participated was wonderful. And as we made our way back to our bungalow, everything seemed a little more peaceful. Love and best of the season to everyone.