To start, the students make a huge flower arrangement out of banana leaves. Then, I was asked to lead the entire school into the new house, where I light the candle on the top of the arrangement.
Then, P'Woi led the group in a prayer, which was like a blessing wishing for good luck and a good future.
Next, an egg from the arrangement, a flower and a small ball of sticky rice were put into my hand and the members of the school board and local officials started by tying pieces of string from the arrangement around my wrist. While they did this, they said positive words of good fortune, a healthy future, safe travels and a happy family. After the school board and local officials, every other member of the school community, students and teachers, each tied one to my wrist while saying kind words.
It is a traditional local custom and it was quite touching.
After, the egg was cracked open (it was hard boiled) and side that was opened was investigated for the shape. Luckily, it was flat, which means good fortune.
Following the first part of this good-bye day of events, we all ate a wonderful lunch together!
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