Sticks of incense stand upright in the freshly up-turned dirt, filling the air with their fragrant smoke. Like runway lights, they lead the way from where I stand to Mae Tee, finally at rest.
Blessed water
Before she came to Elephant Nature Park, Mae Tee was forced to work in the logging industry, hauling massive logs through jungle terrain. She was rescued about five years ago, and was given a chance to enjoy a peaceful retirement. In all her time at ENP, despite her aching feet, she never once lay down to sleep…until now.
Monk leading prayers
With tears in my eyes, I listen to the monk beside me recite a prayer, as an elder from the community blesses the burial ground and the funeral attendants with water.
Sprinkled with blessing
I hold an offering of a beautiful, pink flower and an unlit piece of incense, bundled together with a small section of white string. I walk carefully over the loose dirt downhill to Mae Tee’s final resting place, right next to her best friend, Mae Kham Geao, who passed away just over two years ago.
My offering to Mae Tee
When all our flowers have been offered, the monk continues his prayers. He instructs Mae Tee’s soul that there is no reason to hold onto this life. He explains that her soul is free and that all the sorrow, pain, joy and love she experienced in this life is behind her, and that it is time to move on. The white string, symbolizing her ties to this life, is severed and her sprit is free to fly.
Colored offerings
With that, the Buddhist ceremony is over. Most people follow the monk away from the grave. I linger a bit longer, perhaps looking for more closure. My Western upbringing keeps me focused on the body left behind, and I envy the apparent ease at which the Thai people around me leave the scene, having already turned the page to the next chapter. I remain still, with memories of all those I’ve lost in my life running through my mind.
After dirt has covered her body, I feel calmer. Now it feels complete to me. Goodbye, Mae Tee.
Mae Tee and Mae Kham Geao together again. Photo Credit: Jodi Thomas
Linnea Barnes
So beautifully said and touching. Thank you.
Jill Li
Beautifully written… I was transported to this peaceful place… and then returned with wonderful memories of this gentle soul who now inhabits the spirit world ~
Thank you so much ~
Jill*
Judith Smith
Simply beautiful from the words to the end sleep well precious one over the rainbow bridge ❤️
Diana Edelman
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing this.
Lynda
How lovely…. a beautiful tribute to a beautiful being….
Angela Lewis
What beautiful, touching, wonderful words and thank you for the description of Mae Tee’s ceremony. No more pain or discomfort, her soul is now joined forever with her best friend and they are free to explore their next chapter……..Bless you all.
Ayngelina
Really beautiful ceremony, you captured it so well.
Giselle and Cody
Such a beautiful ceremony for an amazing girl.
Angie Away
What a touching tribute! Thank you for sharing.
Alex
Lovely tribute and what a privilege to be a part of it!
Juno
What a beautiful moment. Hope Mae Tee went to a peaceful place.
Kristin Addis
I was just at ENP in may and remember this elephant! Sad to see that she passed but happy she did so after being free and happy.