The world is changing at an unbelievable pace. While it used to take one generation to bring new technology to a remote part of the world, today, electronic gadgets are almost released at the same time everywhere. Clothes are handmade, cooking is still done on wood fires, homes are heated with the same wood, yet kids have cell phones! Luckily in Merak, the gadgets have not affected them to the point of being disconnected from the nature of traditional life.
Merak is very safe, yet a historic tale would say otherwise. In the 15th century, the Chieftain ordered his subjects to bring down the mountain that was obstructing sunshine on his palace. The people toiled day and night for years without much progress. One fine day, a lady known as Aum Jomo suggested that instead of taking on this impossible task, it would be much easier to bring down the life of one person. So, the Chieftain was beheaded. Since then, people have lived peacefully in the village.
Dong parents see their children only a few times a year, when they return to their villages. During the Spring Festival, they especially go all out and pamper their kids. Traditional outfits are passed down from generation to generation, and the kids are proud to display them. In this small village, the parents parade their kids for hours. They carry them on simulated horses. It is cold and the parade takes much too long for a child to enjoy.
