Andy Chatman’s Thailand Adventure

One week ago I was on a plane home with weeks of memories swimming through my head and unknown times ahead of me. After having settled back into life here in Rochester, here are my thoughts.

First, the memories of Thailand aren’t disappearing. In fact if anything they’re stronger now than when I left. It’s clear to me that the place and the people affected me.

Then there are the connections that remain in place. Not a day has gone by without multiple contacts with my new friends. Thank god for Facebook! But electronic connections aren’t going to be enough, that’s become clear to me. I know that I’ll be seeing Mike and Lek in Florida in May for the Top Gun Championships and I can’t wait. But there are others, not the least of which is a beautiful Princess, who I need to see again sooner than later. There is no doubt in my mind that I’ll make this happen.

I’ve noticed a peace inside me this week that wasn’t there before i left. I’ve spent the last couple of years letting difficult events in my life weigh me down and become so large that I couldn’t see past them. These things seem small now, and what’s on the other side is so bright and beautiful that I won’t let it be blocked out again.

Maybe most important of all, I’ve gotten my sense of humor back! Perhaps the quality I’ve liked most in myself has been my humor. I’ve been fortunate to have friends who have filled my life with humor. But the weight of events had hidden my smile and replaced it with other things. I see myself in photos this past month and all I see is a smile. And all I feel is peace.

Today I’m living in two places on opposite sides of the world, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. If nothing else, it’s caused Life to fill all 24 hours of my day!