Her name may not actually be Jasmine since I only know her by sight
and profession. But what a sight the first time I saw Jasmine.It was along a stretch of Nimmenhaemin Road I frequent in Chiang Mai, just south of the Amari Hotel. That's where the beautiful Jasmine does business.
Each time I have been on that boulevard, Jasmine has appeared along with the evening. And she seems so singlarly successful no competitor has much of a chance. So the others of Jasmine's profession just stay away.
Watching Jasmine seduce her customers is a master study in subtlety. She seldom needs to coax and is never insistent. One look is usually sufficient to make any potential customer open his wallet and no negotions are ever conducted.
Jasmine never rushes and is elegant in her appreciation. It is apparent that nothing in life has ever spoiled Jasmine, nor has life left her jaded or bitter. Her hint of a smile could make Mona Lisa jealous and warm any normal man's heart. But Jasmine's eyes, obviously knowing, and at the same time understanding, truly reveal the warmth of her soul.
And while one might escape the charm of Jasmine's smile, ignoring her dignity is impossible. It was the second time I saw her that I became so completely aware.
There along Nimmenhaemen while enjoying a quiet meal I looked out and saw her familiar figure coming slowly down the street. In one hand she carried a cooler that kept the jasmine leis fresh and in the other she carried a long walking stick.
Her steps were slow and painful .. small and purposeful to each next establishment. After extracting several bundles of jasmine leis from her cooler, Jasmine laid her walking stick carefully aside. Then drawing herself as erect as her frailness allowed, she approached each table cautiously, pausing to touch a chair-back here and there to maintain her balance.
I always buy from Jasmine, always more than I need, and probably more than I should. It's not the jasmine buds I enjoy but the wonderful warmth of this elegant lady. For in her ancient eyes I see a wisdom I wish I could know. In her deep wrinkles I sense experiences of which I yearn to hear.
Jasmine always wais me which makes me feel embarrased even though I wai her with a deeply bowed head. Jasmine knows I buy too much and often kisses me, that soft touch of nose on cheek.
Maybe we have become friends. I hope so.
If there is a motivation to become fluent in Thai it is so I might be able to sit and talk with Jasmine. That I might know more about this extrodinary woman who, in body and spirit, is to me .. the true beauty of Thailand.