Sticky Rice

Bradford Reszel, 134 TESS

While applying and preparing for service in the Peace Corps, one of my biggest concerns was weather. Peace Corps Volunteers serve all around the world in conditions that range from near-arctic temperatures all the way to the extreme heat like we have experienced here in Thailand. Throughout our first year here we have adjusted as best we can and I still find myself in awe of the resilience of Thai people in the face of drastic heat. 

All that said, as we headed into the holiday season we knew a white Christmas was out of the question. And while it wasn’t a Christmas just like the ones I used to know, from back in Illinois, we have been gifted a reprieve from the oppressive heat for the last ten days or so with lows in the 50s and 60s.

Surely, this is a result of climate change and not a net positive for the world; however, it has brought a nice sense of relief to me as we finish up 2023. Additionally, it has brought out some truly amazing winter-wear for our teachers and students.

The lack of seasons (other than hot and rainy) has affected my body clock more than I realize at times, and so having this mini drop in temperature has been a good reminder of the season of change that happens this time of year. 

No Jack Frost nipping at our noses, no weather outside that is frightful, but the cool weather has certainly helped make the season bright for this Volunteer. 

Read Bradford’s previous articles and contributions.