I frantically grabbed the phone and dialed the front desk.  I hastily told the night auditor of my situation and begged him to send help.  Within minutes, not one but two maintenance men were at the entry path leading to my room to redirect the furry night creature that (in my imagination, at least) seemed intent on spending the night too close for my comfort.  A few minutes later “it” had exited back to the forest, and I had met three new members of Cardamom County, one of whom managed to gain my trust through a single phone call: Faruk.

He works the night shift at Cardamom County and is quite a remarkable person.  This gentleman is oft my unfortunate sounding board when I can’t sleep or arise before the rooster crows (a reality next to the beautifully quaint farm here).  He was manning the reception desk after my enlightening night visit to the kitchen.  When I wrote about meeting Jimmy he said if I ever were to write about him I should use him as an example of night shift mishaps, laziness, or incompetency.  I didn’t think much of his suggestion at the time, but in hindsight, I scoff at the thought of doing such a thing; Faruk is likely the furthest thing from the aforementioned negativity.

We shared conversations and stories ranging from family makeups to quirky attributes, told both eloquently and with frankness like a child.  I can’t recall a time I wasn’t engaged or entertained.  I learned much, including his opposition to the greeting “Namaskaram,” stating he hates to think of people putting themselves aside for him.  From this, arose his, Sunnie’s, and my improvisation greeting “Suzuki, Samurai, No Problem,” an example of one entertaining, yet quirky, conversation of ours.

He impresses guests with his hospitality as shown by both written and verbal guest feedback.  He impresses me with his hard work and selflessness to provide for his family.  I thought men that worked all night to be family men during the day existed only in movies, so it truly has been an honor to meet such a man in person.

Faruk’s work ethic and determination has led him to a new job opportunity, and I am happy and proud that he is going after his dreams.  He has inspired many, including myself, and I am confident that he will continue.  I, on behalf of all of RaxaCollective, too, wish him the best.  Until we meet again (hopefully with me having learned more of his native Tamil language), “Suzuki, Samurai, No Problem!”