As part of our customary New Year greetings, the 'Bangkok Post' is delighted to convey well-wishes to the public from Her Royal Highness Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, His Holiness the Supreme Patriarch and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
Her Royal Highness Maha Chakri Sirindhorn
"May the powers of the Three Gems (the Lord Buddha, dharma and the sangha), the sacred forces and the virtues bless you with inner strength, ease of mind and happiness always."
His Holiness the Supreme Patriarch Ariyavongsagatayana VIII (Amborn Ambaro)
'As the year 2018 is upon us, the happiness and goodness one seeks is not possible to attain through hope and yearning alone. The New Year is an opportune time to reflect on what has occurred in one's life over the past year and contemplate on the good or bad deeds we have committed.
"If any bad deeds have been committed it is incumbent on one to set out immediately to avoid forming thoughts in one's mind that will lead to vile actions and words so that such bad deeds will not be repeated this year.
"One should maintain and augment good deeds while keeping a sense of mindfulness and not being complacent. No one should allow self-delusion to set in, thinking one has been a good enough person. Such a misconception opens the door for bad deeds to take root and take the place of good deeds.
"Those wishing for happiness and good fortune in the New Year should consistently examine their thoughts and actions. One should know what one has done to change for the better and whether one has endured in action for the benefit of oneself and society.
"The person who constantly examines their thoughts and actions does not fall into complacency and stands to gain happiness and goodness without having to ask for it."
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha
'May the powers of the Three Gems, the sacred forces and the powers of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Her Majesty the Queen, His Majesty the King and members of the royal family bless the members of the media and all Thais. May they all be happy, prosperous and succeed in their lives and in their professional endeavours. It may be hard going today but everything will be better if we stay true to committing good deeds."