School Break Amidst the Floods
Updated: 4 days ago
The school break began this week, and although floodwaters still completely submerge the entrance road to Baan Unrak, life inside our home continues with energy, creativity, and joy.
Most of the children at Baan Unrak do not have a family home to return to during school holidays. Some are fortunate to have relatives they can visit, and they always look forward to spending time with them. However, because of the severe flooding across Kanchanaburi, only a very small number of children were able to make the journey this time, while the majority remained at Baan Unrak.
Our teenagers have stepped up to help with daily chores, preparing meals, sorting fabric scraps for recycling, cleaning the gardens, and caring for our community dogs.
After their work, they still find time to swim and enjoy themselves in the water.
With the roads submerged, every trip to the market means carrying heavy supplies across our temporary bamboo bridge. At first, we worried about food shortages, rising prices, and how long we might remain cut off from town. Yet the children's laughter and resilience helped us overcome our worries and reminded us of the strength we find in being together.
We were also concerned about our upcoming program in Bangkok because our school bus was trapped inside the flooded area. Once again, the children came to the rescue! They collected stones and rocks to create a passable route through a neighbouring forest path.
After a real adventure, we finally managed to bring the bus out, giving us hope that we could still attend our program.
The flood also inspired us to reflect on our inner strength through symbolic experiments involving water and fire, together with the practices of Tandava and Kaoshikii, dances that express courage, determination, and perseverance. These experiences strengthened our feeling that no obstacle should stop us from moving forward. When one road is blocked, we must find another.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all our international sponsors and supporters who have contacted us with concern and encouragement. Your kindness and unwavering support mean so much to us during this difficult time.
Although the floodwaters have not yet receded, we continue to adapt, find solutions, and support one another. Every child at Baan Unrak is safe, cared for, and deeply loved.
The flood may have blocked our road, but it has not blocked our determination, our creativity, or our joy!
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