Piloting Thailand through the five stages of grief

Piloting Thailand through the five stages of grief
By Attayuth Bootsripoom

BANGKOK: -- Two weeks on, most Thais are still having difficulty coming to terms with the most profound rupture they have ever experienced in national life. If we gauge our feelings according to the five psychological stages of grief, many of us are still experiencing the first phase – denial.

Public life goes on, but no longer under the benevolent and fatherly gaze most of us have felt all our lives.

Feelings of grief are mixed with confusion. From the highest state official down to the humblest citizen, our social tree has been shaken to its roots. There is fear, too. Some are afraid that the central pillar of the nation is in danger during this sensitive period. In reality, though, it is nothing but their own panicky thoughts that threaten our most revered institution.

Some of us seem to be progressing from shock and denial to the next stage of grief – anger. While many don’t want to accept it, the truth is there are people who actually like to mock the outward display of mourners.

Full story: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/news/politics/30298452

 

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