Why are people just mean? I don't understand it. I thought that after we graduated from high school that we put the knives away. I naively assumed that "adults" had it figured out and didn't get off on being vindictive and spiteful. As I grew up a little bit and started meeting these "adults" who were supposed to have their act together, I realized that there isn't a cut off date when we just have it figured out. There isn't a time in our lives while "discovering our road to self discovery" when it just clicks. Unfortunately, I have learned these things, but as I look around Thailand, I realize I have a lot of learning to do.
Thais don't act the same way as those in the western world and we could stand to learn a thing or two.
Thais aren't mean. Thais believe in karma and doing things for other people. They believe that if they preform selfless acts that it increases their own social standing, so the Thai social order is dominated, not by those who can "play hardball" or step on others to get to where they want to go, but by those who are loving, giving individuals - preforming random acts of kindness for all people. It is this unbelievable level of selflessness that makes someone worthy of respect in Thai society. It is amazing. It is inspiring to see someone going out of their way to help others, even with the most nominal task. It is encouraging to see those who "have nothing" (comparatively), but are rich in love and compassion. I know this sounds like the cheesiest thing in the world, but holy shit, when you experience a motorbike break down and in less than 5 minutes 5 people have taken time out of their days to assist you in every way that they possibly could, you can't help but feel a little bewildered - especially after living in places like New York, where people are renowned for harsh, abrasive behavior.
Why are people just mean? Why do we excessively overlook and under appreciate those around us? Why don't we think about the way we conduct ourselves and look to create richness in the lives of those around us? Why don't we see this richness as a reflection of ourselves? Why don't we emphasize living in a way that fosters kindness and love? Is living in a loving way really that much of an inconvenience? I don't think so, but like I said, I've got some learning to do.
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