Scientology Volunteer Ministers traveled to two areas in northeast Thailand to help victims of what has been described by Thai officials as the worst flooding in several decades.
Beginning in October, unusually heavy rains in the mountainous northeastern region swelled the tributaries feeding the country’s largest river—the Chao Phraya. Not only was there flooding in portions of the highlands, but the Chao Phraya itself began to overrun its banks. Winding through 225 miles of central Thailand to Bangkok in the south, the river left a trail of devastation in its wake.
The Thai government estimates that 1.6 million acres of farmland have been destroyed and 4.2 million people have been affected by the floods, losing their homes, farms and businesses.
Volunteer Ministers (VMs) who were already in Thailand preparing for the launch of a tour headed out as soon as possible to reach the flood victims. They traveled northeast to the ancient royal city of Phetchaburi and the Korat district to help in whatever way possible, taking with them what VMs are best known for: knowledge and technology.
The technology comes from L. Ron Hubbard’s years of research into the human mind and spirit. This practical information can be used by anyone, anywhere, anytime to better conditions for themselves and others. One of the Thai VMs, Jeab, explained to his fellow countryman who had questions about Scientology technology, “I’m a strong Buddhist and I believe in Buddha. But I also apply Scientology principles in my life.”
Jeab taught several flood victims to use assist technology, Scientology techniques for relieving stress, emotional trauma and speeding physical recovery. Assists are particularly useful at disaster sites, as is the organizational technology the VMs use to dispel the chaos and confusion that often accompany natural or man-made catastrophe. Scientology organizational technology is frequently used to help government officials and relief workers carry out their duties in an orderly way and administer the maximum assistance possible.
In the weeks to come, VMs expect to travel to several locations in Thailand, helping victims as well as training others in Scientology techniques all in the spirit of the Volunteer Minister’s motto: “Something Can Be Done About It.”
