More Issan Musings

Yesterday I was struck by the idea that this trip has been all about the earth and water elements. We've visited 3 nature parks that had strange rock formations. I have seen more huge rocks in this part of the country than I've ever seen in other parts of Thailand. Yesterday we went to Wat Phu Tok (Temple of the Falling Rock) which was actually just a HUGE sandstone outcrop. It basically looked like a large rock mountain jutting out of the earth. This place is a meditation retreat for monks so there are many little platforms up in the trees or sticking out of the rock. We walked up many stairs until we got to these wooden platforms that encircled the rock. There were 7 levels to represent the different levels to enlightenment. It was so strange to be on these walkways because there was nothing below them whatsoever. It felt like we were walking on the sky. I was overwhelmed by a sense of something very powerful and a strong energy surrounding the place. Perhaps it was because so many people have meditated and prayed there.

But this trip has also been about water. We have closely followed the Mekhong along the northeast tip of Thailand. Looking across the mighty river, we can see Laos. Even though the river is low now, it's still so powerful and majestic. It's obvious to see how this river has been the life-source of most southeast asian countries. One day we went down to the rapids and watched the fishermen casting out their nets. One fisherman's wife was explaining to us that these nets can catch many small fish but that they use fishing rods to catch the big fish. The fish usually move towards the banks to sleep so sometimes the fishermen wait until evening when it's easy to catch more fish.

The Mekhong:

Mushroom Rock:

Wat Phu Tok: