Omens

As you may know, we are here in Thailand for my friend’s wedding. We’ve been looking forward to experiencing a traditional Thai wedding as he is marrying a wonderful Thai woman. During the week-long festivities, we were able to eat great Thai food, hobnob with a movie star, and experience three ominous signs. They always come in threes, don’t they? Could they be a portend for their marriage?

Our dove looked just like this one with one exception – ours was dead.

The first omen came upon us with a thump. It was late in the evening, and a group of us attendees were sitting around drinking and talking when all of a sudden there was a loud thump. We all jumped, some of us releasing a bit of gas (I won’t name names). Our tall Dutch friend went in search of the culprit. He came back with a dazed Dove. He placed the dove gently upon a credenza as we went back to doing what we all set out to do – drink. After a couple of delicious Southern Baptists, the dove fell off the credenza, landing on the floor with a thud. It was dead. Could this be a sign to come?

The second omen was more ominous than the first. It was the aforementioned murderous mob of Mosquitos. Most everyone in the wedding party was aghast, not experiencing any mosquito problem themselves. I, however, ended up with a bloody pillow, semi-closed eye, and a fat lip. I looked as though I went a few rounds. (you should have seen the other guy!)

Although not the elephant that charged… well, you get the idea.

The third and final omen came on what was supposed to be a nice day out with the elephants. The entire wedding party and friends visited the Baan Chang Elephant Park where we were to feed, ride and bathe an elephant. We arrived and dressed in elephant garb, then while waiting for our turn, we heard a mighty scream. This scream emanated from a large bull elephant that was charging a group of visitors. Just as we turned to see, the elephant charged into the group, injuring two, and terrifying the rest, before the handler could regain control. One woman had a severely broken arm and another woman had a severely broken ankle (or foot). It was now our turn. The leader came over and said he can control the elephants and for us to trust our lives with him. Sorry, but no way. A bunch of us left. As we left, we could see the elephant still agitated as he was pacing back and forth.

Three omens, all within a few days. All of them surrounding my friend’s wedding. Best of luck, big guy!