A FRIEND & FAMILY CHRISTMAS IN THE LAND OF SMILES

Thailand - often called the land of smiles due to the traditional smiling greetings, respectful manners and hands-together bow of the Thais. Here at Tao Garden it is a pleasure to give and receive the courteous nod, the sawadee ka and when convenient the waii with hands together, similar to the Indian namaste gesture.  When I go into Chiang Mai and move among the urban hip population and the international expats and tourist I miss the gestures and smiles - a respectfl greeting that makes relationship more valued in the busyness of today's world.

It is nearly Christmas, the 23rd here, we are ahead one day in many parts of the world. Today Kavita arrived from Jaipur, Rajasthan, to discuss a health oasis and school project in India. Soon my son, Galon, arrives for a few days. He is on holiday from Mahidol University near Bangkok and is bringing his bicycle and we plan to cycle the countryside. I am sure he will take some longer rides than my ambition would consider. I like my time with the herbal steam and swims and sun every day and the afternoon quiet time in my room.

Dear friends, Matthew and Mary Kelly are also here over the holidays - a break from their busy projects with Amicus Foundation which funds tsunami, orphans, and education projects in Thailand.  It is a blessing to have something good to do with your life. I give thanks daily for my work, teaching and service and the privilege of contributing to this world.

Tomorrow evening Tao Garden presents a special dinner and entertainment and on Christmas Day 6 of us journey to an Ayurveda center for lunch and an explore. Happy holidays everyone!