Tribute to the King

Before I left school on Thursday October 13th, a Thai coworker-friend pulled me aside and told me that the country of Thailand was awaiting a formal announcement early that evening regarding the king. Since the majority of us foreigners at school don't speak Thai, the Thai staff often look out for us by keeping us abreast of important events and announcements.

It was known that Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) was admitted to Bangkok's Siriraj Hospital on October 3rd. For years now (since 2009) the king has been battling health issues and, sure enough, the world was informed that King Bhumibol Adulyadej died at age 88 after a 70 year reign on the throne. The announcement came in a statement from the Royal Palace read on state TV Thursday evening.

It is an understatement to say the country of Thailand is now in mourning for a king who was absolutely dearly loved. When looking back at his life, he not only reigned for 7 decades but advanced the country through his modernized inventions, contributed to culture through his artistic bent and constantly made himself accessible to his public. In fact, King Bhumibol Adulyadej is known as the one who brought Thailand into the modern age.

Flags were immediately set at half-mast and government workers were told to wear black for the next year as a sign of respect. In addition, the country is to abstain from celebrations and wear dark muted colors for the duration. I must admit it is a sobering experience to venture out into Bangkok and be reminded of this mourning period when:

• Walking through crowds in public areas, such as the subway, and see only black and white dressed people moving about
• Noticing all 'loud' advertising and music silenced in public areas like malls and public transportation
• Observing memorial displays all across the country with black and white ribbon adorning buildings, fences and signs
• Coming across Thai web sites and other publications accessed in this country set to a monochrome (black and white) display as a reminder to the loss of a beloved king

I've lived in Thailand for five years now and my heart goes out to this nation in mourning. The more I learn about the King of Thailand, the more respect I have for this person who demonstrated such a positive example throughout his life. King Bhumibol Adulyadej will certainly be missed.