Ode To My Buffalo

Tribute to Gwei Dtiao
Some of you may know that during the past year or so, I've befriended a buffalo. It shouldn't really be a surprise to anyone who knows me since you would already know I grew up raising and loving animals. In fact, on of my earlier career aspirations was to become a veterinarian. And who doesn't love books about animals--Charlottes Web, James Herriot's biographies, The Jungle Book. In any event, buffalo in Thailand are smart and keen creatures, with a sense of solemn wisdom about them. Many people will attest to this. Sometimes I liken them to horses or dolphins. About a year ago, my neighbor's large old buffalo gave birth to a little bundle of joy--they gave me the privilege of naming her..."Gwei Dtiao" or Noodles (I chose the name mainly because of our close proximity to my other neighbor's noodle shop and because I've always liked noodles in Thailand. In fact, I wanted it to be my nickname back in the day). Anyways, Gwei Dtiao has been a pleasant presence in my life here--often frequenting and keeping the grass trim on my front lawn. I'd spend many of afternoon lounging in my hammock while Gwei Dtiao kept me company nearby. When she'd fain thirst, I give her water and show her affection. It was especially during times when being a Volunteer felt very lonely that I appreciated having the companionship of animals like Gwei Dtiao and serene surroundings--there's something about the solitude of animals that provides one the feeling of acceptance and understanding.

Times Changing
Two weeks ago, I came home to quite devastating news that my pet buffalo (really my neighbor's pet but truly my friend) had been sold. My neighbor and her husband have long been buffalo raisers so selling a buffalo for profit seemed pretty commonplace. But, when I caught wind of it, she could tell by the look on my face that I took it to heart and truly felt the loss of a companion. As a compassionate person, she assured me the buffalo went to a good home where it would come into maturity and live a good life. Apparently she's found a new home nearby.

It's taken some adjusting but I've become more used to the current situation and I accept like all things--life changes, moves on, buffalos come and go! In a month, Gwei Dtiao's mother will give birth yet again and I assume the cycle will start all over again and before I know it I'll be christening the new buffalo... "Sen Lek" ('small noodle' in Thai). But, I thought it only right (before I move on to newborns) to dedicate a blog post to my beloved friend and companion, Gwei Dtiao, the buffalo--however silly it may seem to the reader. I'll never forget her!


For more information on Buffalo in Thailand, follow the link: Thai Buffalo