After 10 months of culturally and personally sinning away in my new country of service, last night, I was finally able to release all my offensive burdens.

What has brought this about? None other than Bhoun Ok Phansa, or what locals often refer to as Boun Lai Heua Fai, the Festival of Lights.

What is Boun Ok Phansa?

This festival marks the end of the three-month Buddhist Lent, or “Phansa”, during which monks typically stay within their temples for meditation and study. As they emerge from their retreat, illuminated lanterns and candles symbolize the return of the monks to their communities and the end of the rainy season when they are less likely to harm living creatures while walking as well as the enlightenment they have gained during this period.

In the days leading up to the event, temples and homes are decorated with candles and colorful paper lanterns in anticipation. 

On Boun Ork Phansa day, this year celebrated on October 17, vibrant festivities ensue across the country as monks emerge from their retreats and communities come together to celebrate their return. A special candlelight parade in the evening marks the culmination of the festival. 

The light from lanterns and candles is often associated with purity and spiritual cleansing. It is believed that the act of lighting these illuminations helps cleanse one’s spirit and bring positive energy into one’s life.

The lanterns and candles attract the blessings and protection of deities and spirits. This symbolism ties into the broader theme of seeking divine favor and guidance during the festival.

Showing respect for Cultural Traditions: Wearing the Sinh, the Laos Skirt

Since Boun Ork Phansa is not a national holiday, schools, government offices and places of business continued onward as usual. This included our Santisouk Language and Vocational Center, although I will say evening classes for both myself and Shaloom had slimmer numbers than usual.

The Junior High had only 5 out of 11 in attendance; My new elementary education class of 6 had only 3.

This didn’t stop me from wearing my new Laos skirt in celebration of this traditional day. I gathered together my students, some still in their school skirt uniforms, for a photo op.

Naturally, we had to have two: The “posed” shot and then the fun one. Junior high first, with Shaloom since we are co-teachers.

And next, our elementary ed students including higher and lower levels.

To make it a special evening for my Level 1 attendees, Louknam, Namwan and Fanta, we had our first game of Bingo with cookie packet prizes. Yum!

So what about the release of sins?

Interested in how my sins were released after those opening blog sentences? Watch this space for the next installment, my adventuresome ride home after class and the outcome of my stop along the way. It’ll be a great read!