On a hot, bright day, the group gathered: Mercy kids dancing before a background of rainbow decoration, others seated on a flowered podium. Dressed in red fabrics, garland wreaths of chrysanthemum and jasmine bedecking the drums, others stepped back and forth in time to the quick beat of the music. Applause and acclamation sounded from a supportive audience, come to see the skill and performance of Pong Lang style music.

The Port Authority of Thailand has been one of our sponsors for this program for several years now, teaching Pong Lang to kids living at our Mercy homes. This performance was an opportunity for them to demonstrate their hard work and mastery of this traditional music. Before these children came to live at Mercy, they faced severe need in many areas, lacking education, finances, and social opportunities. Here at Mercy, we seek to support them in all these areas and more, providing enrichment and life skills that the kids can carry with them long after they have left Mercy behind.

By teaching Pong Lang, we are helping to keep its rich tradition alive and passing down this element of cultural heritage. But rather than merely going through the motions, Mercy kids can go further --- they learn from the music. 

Pong Lang teaches discipline, patience, confidence, and the self-esteem that comes with mastery of a difficult, worthwhile skill. The practice also connects the kids to their community through performances and facilitates self-development of their potential. The pride they took in their performance is testament to that. Thank you to all of our sponsors, including the Port Authority!