Lucky Draw

Thailand still has compulsory military service. Each young man in Thailand must return to his home province in his early twenties and participate in what they call the "lucky draw." They report to a military office where they draw a slip of paper from a box. If the slip is red, they are compelled to serve three years in the Thai army. If the slip is black, they are excused from service. The odds differ from privince to province. Each province has a quota they have to fill each year. In some provinces, a lot of that quota is filled by volunteers who see the army as good, reliable employment. In general, I believe the odds of being 'drafted' are about one in five.

This week, two of my young friends from the slums team, Eddie and Son, went back to their home towns to do their lucky draw.


Eddie, sadly, drew red. If ever there were someone ill-equipped for military service it would be Eddie, and he knows it. He had been so worried about this. He does have three months before he has to report. And apparently he will be serving in his home province which is just a few hours north, so we can visit him from time to time. It is just part of life here in Thailand, but I am deeply saddened. We'll miss Eddie terribly.

Eddie's biggest fear right now is for his hair. Hey, if you had hair like that, you'd be worried too! Please do pray that God will prepare Eddie for the adventures that lie ahead, and that he will find favor with his fellow soldiers and with his leaders. We trust that God will go before him and make the crooked places straight.

There is some good news. Sontoya (Son) was excused from service. Son has become a dear friend over the past year, both to me and especially to Jason. As disappointed as I am with losing Eddie from the team, I am equally blessed to know that Son is not going anywhere.