RE: BKKSTAN - Why play tourist cop?
First - I have been involved in various areas of law enforcement for over 20 years in my prior life. That should not imply that I am psychologically fit - but instead should probably indicate that I'm not - but at this point in time, that would be a moot point. I yam what I yam.
No - I don't speak much Thai. Yes, I do have a good handle on Thai culture. I have a much better handle on "falang culture" - especially that aspect of falang culture that seems to encourage some falangs to come here as guests in this country, and try to impose their own cultures, beliefs and value systems on the Thais and do as they damned well please to the discomfort of others.
So, yes, I am concerned about both Thais and Falangs. I view my role as that of a mediator and a liason between the falangs and the Thais. To that extent, yes, I am concerned about the falang image. If there is something that I can do to avoid ill feelings towards either group, then I have accomplished something.
As for the supposed authority - forget it. Yes, there is a lot of authority that could be had with the position, but I don't want it. I find it much easier to work behind the scenes and resolve problems rather than being confrontational and hitting things head on. I have yet to "wear" all the equipment that is available.
I do it to give something back to the community. It keeps me from being the town drunk and gives me something productive to do. Yes, I am also involved in other types of projects here too, but I like to diversify. I figure that since I am going to live here, I might as well take an active part in the community. I did it back in the States - and it comes as second nature to me.
Some (Thais) might call it "making merit." Might be some truth to that. From my perspective, when it is time for me to hit that BBQ Pit there at the temple, I ain't going to know anything anyway. If, by living a fairly good and decent life here, it gives folks a reason to go out and have a big party when it is time for my final BBQ - then what I have done has been worth it.
I figure that I must have quite a bit of respect from the Thais as it is already. When news hit the "jungle phones" that I was in the hospital for a few days, 15 different Thais came up to visit me and check on me.
So, I reckon that my motivations are honorable.