The Real Thing

Just a continuation from my previous post - and yeah, the title comes from another Gwen Stefani song...

Left some of my last minute souvenir shopping for the end so it was late evening by the time I managed to finally make my way to the famous Erawan Shrine for my offering. For those who're utterly stumped, the Erawan Shrine is dedicated to the four-headed image of Brahma and it's located right smack in Chidlom, one of the most congested commercial districts in Bangkok . Only in Thailand do you see the contrasts - Thai classical dancers performing for the god amidst burning incense and offerings in the serene temple right at the corner of a bustling cross junction beneath a modern monorail system.

Wishes and offerings have been made there - and according to local folklore, more than a few have been granted which has made the small shrine a significant draw for devotees from arund the region. An infamous legend even has it that a lady once danced in the nude under the moonlight after her boon was met.

Inspired by an article in a daily newspaper, I made my way there to make my plea. When I reached the shrine with the hundreds of devotees clamouring for their own boons, it came to me that it was alarmingly fitting that I should make a wish for a mate just on the eve of Valentine's! I'd actually forgotten the date but over here in Thailand, it's practically impossible to get away from talk of Valentine's since it's literally plastered everywhere.

Thena gain, perhaps it was a sign of some sort and I prayed for the best. Wars are being fought, people are dying of disease and yet here I am asking for a boyfriend. Talk about the pathetically lovelorn ( or possibly insanely self-absorbed :) ). Feeling more than a little foolish and self-conscious - and yet desperately earnest, I made my wish nevertheless and gave my offerings to Brahma.

So if it actually comes true - and I'm truly with a mate that I can love who actually loves me in return by next year, I shall have to make another pilgrimage there. So to the hitherto unknown prince Brahma picks for me, I suggest you make a mark on that calendar. Don't worry. I promise no naked dances by the moonlight.