Interview with a farang beggar

[LaaMok]

http://www.orientexpat.com/thai-news/20081...ing-farang.html

 

Interview with a Farang Beggar

 

By Patrick Shaw

Thailand

 

2008-03-22

 

One of the stranger sights in Thailand is the Westerner reduced to begging on the streets. For example, many expatriates in Thailand are aware of the Dutchman who's been sitting at various BTS stations for years, always apparently a few thousand Baht short of a ticket home. Like most young men in his situation, there is little doubt that they're too bone idle to go home and get a job and so embarrass themselves and their fellow countrymen by begging.

 

However, what becomes of those who really are down on their luck in Thailand? I was told about an older guy who's been sitting outside Asoke BTS station for quite some time, holding a sign that states he needs work. For some reason, I was curious about this particular guy and I thought his story would make an interesting article. Recently, I finally made down to Asoke to ask him a few questions. Sure enough, he was right outside the station sitting on the pavement. I wasn't sure what to expect but he appeared reasonably well dressed, clean shaven and it was a jarring sight to see him in such a position.

 

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[green1976]

I haven't see the Dutch beggar or Bob.

 

One night strolling in soi 4 at Bkk, one falang,around 45, asked me some money.

 

He looked not like the typical beggar but more like an alcoholic or between a hobo and a random guy.

[LaaMok]

I haven't see the Dutch beggar or Bob.

 

One night strolling in soi 4 at Bkk, one falang,around 45, asked me some money.

 

He looked not like the typical beggar but more like an alcoholic or between a hobo and a random guy.

 

I've never seen one, I would buy some food though

[Parkwahn]

People get on a downward spiral and dont do anything about it, as soon as you are spending capital and not income you are on the road to ruin, people delude themselves something will come along yet do the same every day.

 

Custer said "dont worry someone will come soon" they did more indians

[SneakySnake]

a bit strange to title his interview "interview with a beggar" when the guy in question is not actually begging for money...

 

sad story though, hope he can turn things around, it's easy to get caught up with the thai "mai pen rang" attitude until its to late...although you would think his embassy could be a little more forthcoming

[ginseng]

This is a very good story and sends a chill down my spine since I'm about to give up my security blanket and head for LOS myself. You wonder how people can hit rock bottom but I think as Parkwahn said if you are in a position where you are spending more than you save you are in danger, you never know when family and friends might be gone and it's just you. It might take years before you have to face the music but the day will most certainly come when it's you and your bank account against the world.

 

For me and I suppose many others life just has gotten unbearable here in the USA. I feel bored lonely and have lost faith I can find peace of mind here. I have always had bouts of depression but I used to be much more optimistic than I am now. The only thing that gives me a glimmer of hope is living in Thailand. I do fear if this doesn't work out what I'll do next but if Thailand isn't working out I'm prepared to admit that to myself and move on.

 

For many years I let this fear stop me, I didn't want to find myself in a dead end in Thailand but the pain of being here in the USA has became too great. I'm sick of being consume by negative thinking and dreading every day to work. I'm sick of lying on my bed on a Saturday night watching the screen saver on my computer for hours! 5555 I felt compelled to take the gamble and do something about it. Reward is always a matter of calculated risk. I will be spending the first year without a job. However I will spend that year intensively studying Thai. If I want to live in Thailand I see this as an investment, not a waste of time and money. Sometimes I feel so fed up with working, girls and my own limitations I just want to give up and could see myself falling apart if I don't keep my ship tight. I'm glad to read this story and to be reminded how easily I could be one of these guys. I don't want to be 60 without a pot to piss in. It's true I'm going to Thailand to give myself a sanook injection but I'm ready to keep working hard and sock away the cash until I'm truly ready to retire.