An Ode To is an ongoing series dedicated by Peace Corps Volunteers to the people we meet, places we go, experiences we have, and memories we make, during or before service, with a special nod to everything we miss along the way. If you have some sweet words to share, submit them to us at pctm.stickyrice@gmail.com.
Isaura Bozu, 134 TESS
The word “janitor” does not even come close to describing the godsend that is Na Sak. He is a pillar of this community, a man whose presence is felt and cherished in so many ways.
It’s a bit ironic that I started writing this morning because I managed to lock myself out of the house – the only key hanging just inside the door. But as frustrating as that moment was, it reminded me of the unsung heroes who make our lives smoother and better, like Pi Sak, Na Sak, or Lung Sak.
To me, Na Sak is the MVP of our school and community — our brother, dad, uncle, and friend.
Since day one, Na Sak has shown unwavering loyalty to the children at school and the larger community of this mountain village. His kindness and dedication extend beyond the classroom to his family and everyone he encounters. I’ll never forget my first night at my site when I visited my host family’s garden home, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the mountains.
That evening, I met his son, Focus, who was about to enter P5 at the time. While the adults prepared dinner, Focus sat with me on the porch. He asked if I was hungry and offered to make me “mama” (instant noodles). Initially, I declined, not wanting to impose, but hunger got the better of me and I asked him to make some noodles. Watching this young boy, barely half my age, confidently cook and host me in someone else’s home left a lasting impression. His hospitality and maturity were beyond his years.
When Wai Kru (Teacher’s Day) arrived, the students brought flowers to thank their teachers. I wanted to show my gratitude to Na Sak for everything he does, so I gave him a gift of a “Pha Khao Ma” which is a scarf that is tied around the waist and used as a traditional flare and useful. His surprise and appreciation were heartwarming. Every time I see him wearing it at school, it reminds me of how much his presence means to all of us.
One day, Na Sak and his family came to help clean my house. I offered to pay them for their time, but he refused, saying, “You’re my Nong” (younger sibling). I had to accept his generosity.
They not only cleaned but reorganized my space with practical solutions: placing wash buckets under the sink and attaching a string to hang the broom outside my kitchen door. It felt like having family over before the holidays, ensuring everything was in perfect order before I hosted other PCVs at my home for English camp. They even cleaned the fans and disassembled them to get a deep clean and make my home more comfortable. Everyone had a job – including me, giving a big sweep to the floors.
On weekends, some of the Aunuban (kindergarten) teachers come to school to teach special classes. Shortly after I arrived, I noticed a strong smell coming from the library. The teachers explained that one of the school dogs had been accidentally locked inside overnight. We called Na Sak for help, but he was unavailable. Instead, his son Focus and his mom came over, as they live just around the corner. Focus brought a massive key ring with about 50 keys attached with nothing labeled, and we anxiously watched as he tried each one.
The dog, desperate and banging against the metal door, had a bleeding head wound. After what felt like an eternity, Focus found the right key and freed the dog. With care and attention, the dog recovered, thanks to their quick response.
Na Sak’s contributions go far beyond what anyone would expect. Whether it’s lighting candles for a “bi sri” ceremony, setting up large metal tents for sports day, cutting grass by hand with a small motor attached to a single sharp blade, or marking lines for track and field events, he does it all with quiet efficiency. He came to save me from a snake at my house within 5 minutes … it was already dead but helped me get rid of it. Pi Sak even lights bonfires in the mornings and afternoons for the kids to roast Pak Nua marshmallows (sticky rice on bamboo skewers) and stay warm during the cooler months.
Thank you, Na Sak, for everything you do. You are truly held high in our hearts.
Sticky Rice 
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