When I was growing up, my culture had many interesting rituals, and among them were weather-related practices. Because Thailand has a strong agricultural sector, favorable weather conditions are vital for economic progress. These rituals are often conducted during the dry season and involve various practices aimed at invoking rainfall.

One such ritual is known as the "Parade of a Female Cat" or "Hae Nang Meaw." It involves parading a white female cat that has a loud squeak around the village while splashing water on it. Cats have traditionally been associated with drought, and through this parade, Thai people hope to communicate with the deity and ask for rain. They believe that the cat's squeak is a way to connect with the gods. This ritual is widespread across the country.

Another ritual related to weather is the dancing parade, where people gather, dress up in traditional Thai clothes, play drums, and sing prayers while dancing around the village. This practice is meant to be an entertaining offering to the god of weather.

The final one involves cleansing oneself with holy water, which is believed to wash away sins and impurities. In Thai society, water is considered holy and pure, and this ritual is a way to purify one's soul and strengthen their devout prayers.

The underlying belief behind all these weather rituals is the idea that humans have committed sins and defied the gods, leading to the absence of rain. By performing these practices, Thai people hope that their sins will be forgiven, and rainfall will occur.

Outsiders may find these rituals and beliefs peculiar and challenging to comprehend. For example, they may wonder why cats are used instead of common ritual animals like cows, pigs, or chickens. They may also question the significance of using a female cat, specifically. People from other cultures might wonder about the relationship between cats and rain and the reason for splashing water on the cat. Additionally, they may question the source and definition of "holy water," and view the acts as a waste of water.

One way to bridge this cultural understanding gap is to explain that Thai people view cats as symbolizing rain when they meow. Since cats dislike water, splashing them with water is a way of inducing them to do their version of "meowing." Similarly, washing in holy water is comparable to taking a shower after a long and tiring day to feel clean.

Overall, these rituals are an integral part of our daily life routine and play a significant role in our culture. Embracing and understanding the practices enable individuals to be more mindful and embrace other cultures even more.