The King and Thais
Although I first came to Thailand nearly 50 years ago and have now lived here for 14 years, I am still a foreigner and an outsider, and I would not presume to say I fully understand the relationship between the Thai people and their King.
But one thing I am sure of, and that is that the love, respect and grief that is pouring out across the nation for the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej as Thailand prepares for his final farewell, is genuine.
Photographs in the media and television footage showing men, women and children clutching photographs of the late King, tears streaming from their eyes, as they wait, sometimes for hours in the sun or rain to pay their last respects attest to their true love, respect and thankfulness for the 70-year reign of this extraordinary monarch.
Many Westerners think that Britain invented pomp and circumstance.
Watching the preparations for the royal funeral rites that begin this week, I thought Thailand is way ahead of the Brits, and that the ceremonies will befit the farewell not only of a king, but of a great king.
For I am sure history will record him as King Bhumibol the Great.