Out of grief comes light

The sight of an estimated 300,000 Thais singing the Royal Anthem at Sanam Luang last Saturday was perhaps a unique expression of love for a monarch in modern times. In contrast to the blind devotion felt for figureheads elsewhere, the love for His Majesty the King is inspired by visible evidence of seven decades of hard work for his people.
His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej was Thailand’s head of state, but his status was far more than merely symbolic. He also drove the country forward by helping governments initiate various development schemes that came to be known as the Royal projects.
Among the most celebrated of more than 3,000 such projects was his initiative to persuade hilltribes to cease cultivating opium poppy and switch to other crops. As a result the highland farmers now make a good living from their temperate crops, without risking jail time for growing an illegal narcotic. 
All together, millions of Thais have benefited from the Royal initiatives, which helps to explain the depth of love and gratitude felt for King Rama IX.
On Saturday, people waited for hours under a hot afternoon sun and then evening rain at Sanam Luang next to the Grand Palace, where the late King’s body and the Royal urn have been placed. The mass singing was recorded for the production of a new version of the Royal Anthem to be played in cinemas. 
Coming together at just a few days’ notice, the huge crowd waited patiently and determinedly in difficult conditions before rehearsals and then finally the performance got underway.
The historic gathering demonstrated not just profound love for the King, but also that we Thais are capable of coming together in solidarity for a good cause. It was a show of unity by people from all walks of life. A near-spontaneous gathering of this size requires harmony and cooperation – like drops of water uniting to form an ocean. The photos and video of the event reveal a sea of black-clad mourners during the day, then a candlelit ocean under darkness.
We can only hope that this impressive tribute to our beloved late monarch lights the path ahead for our country. It showed how we can overcome this period of grief together and walk hand in hand towards a brighter future.
In this time of sorrow, acts of kindness and spontaneous generosity have flowed like never before. People both old and young have volunteered their services free for fellow mourners. Motorcyclists are providing free shuttle services around the Palace. Others are distributing food and drink, providing first aid, or helping to clear the rubbish from the site of mourning. Members of the Royal Family are playing their part by preparing food for distribution to the mourners gathered outside the Palace.
Once again the Thai people have displayed to the world the resiliency of their nation. We are turning yet another national tragedy into a force that will push our country forward. The precious unity is affording us the momentum to move forward and deal with future crises in a calm and dignified way. Long may it continue.