When I finished writing this book, I felt relieved. On the one hand, it seemed that my thoughts were no longer tied down; on the other, some problems in my life began to recede, even though they were not necessarily solved. Maybe this is because these days, when I start writing, I feel the need to talk to others about some topics I have investigated on my own, to determine whether my analyses are correct.
A dear friend of mine, a professional writer whose talent is widely recognized, once suggested that, given our age and experience, we should set ourselves the lofty aim of addressing the world. For such an insignificant person as myself, to do so would be highly conceited indeed, yet I have genuine respect both for my friend and for his suggestion, and I wish that someone will act on it.
The problems I mentioned above are of a personal nature and common to all ordinary people – being greedy and selfish, refusing to acknowledge one’s own mistakes and blaming them on others instead, shirking responsibilities, complaining about trifles, refusing to face the truth and shying away from confrontation.
Another important factor that inspired me to write this book is that I spent several years of my life trekking from the South to the Northeast and then to the North, wading through countless jungles, mountains and waterways, and this is still vivid in my mind. Today, time and a technology-oriented urban society are increasingly compelling me to let go of these memories. The “love” the wild jungle inspired in me is fast receding. The fear that, before long, all this would disappear from my memory has prompted me to put pen to paper.
As I have said, this is only a story I would like to discuss with others. Some may disagree, both about the thoughts expressed and about the way they are expressed. This is their right, which I must accept and respect in every way.
In friendship,
Sila Komchai