Wow what a post! I am glad I came across it. First I do want to say that I think what you are doing is amazing, you definitely have chosen kindness over an easy life. I also saw a lot of masks when visiting Japan and moving to Vietnam, which I did not see at all when living in Europe. I spend a very large portion of my time wearing a mask outside here, and we had them before covid was even a thing.
The most profound part to me was that "your narrative is not their narrative". It seems almost everywhere I go the "narrative" is different, yet most people who never leave think of it as the only one. Honestly for most of my early life I probably fit into that group of people. Even when I thought I had started to question everything and "break free", I still had these deep assumptions that weren't totally turned upside down until I moved out of the UK, and that was just to Poland, another country in Europe.
Despite all my experiences...this post has opened my eyes even further and I really hope it reaches others and resonates with them as well. Thank you for doing this and not just a quick witty reply.
Hey Josh - thanks for such a thoughtful reply. It's the mistake people who don't get out enough much make: that they think their narrative is shared and universal. it's not the easiest life here in Thailand, but it is an AWESOME one filled with diversity, challenge and colour. Endlessly grateful for my life here, and for the fundamental culture of kindness which is a base here.
Look forward to reading more from you. Get yourself a daily posting habit is about the best advice I can give you, and you're gonna find so many creative fantasy dressers and cosplay people in here.
Enjoy your Sunday!