The big question is now that Thais have shown their loyalty to His Majesty by wearing their yellow shirts and wristbands, and a record number turned up to listen to him up close on June 9, what next? Is this simply another big, unforgettable festivity that will fade away over time as we all return to business as usual?

Thais have listened to His Majesty's speeches for decades, but whether we have followed them earnestly is another matter. Take the most basic concept of self-sufficiency. We all know about it, but there's doubt as to how many really follow it as a guide for personal living. Chaipattana Foundation secretary-general Sumet Tantivejakul has helped clarify the concept through a series of academic lectures. It is not about reverting back to living a farmer's life, and it doesn't mean don't get rich. The point is we must not spend lavishly, exceeding what we have. We must not stretch ourselves beyond our means. We have to be cautious in our actions.

As for getting rich, one should take it step by step and not aim too high, because then growth would not be sustainable, and if it all goes wrong, the fall could be disastrous. And of course, wealth must be gained through righteous means.

Sumet also pointed out in a recent lecture at Mae Fa Luang University in Chiang Rai that Thais had low incomes but expensive tastes. This translates to Thais spend needlessly. He also warned that if Thais failed to rein in their excessive consumerism, the country's future would be bleak indeed.

But that's exactly what's going on in Thai society today. While His Majesty teaches us virtue, Thais practise vice. While His Majesty teaches us moderation and simplicity, Thais indulge in excess.

In essence, the concept of self-sufficiency is somewhat comparable with that of Bhutan's "Gross National Happiness". Instead of using GDP to measure material wealth and as the benchmark for gauging a country's growth, Bhutan focuses on areas like cultural and environmental preservation as factors contributing to that country's well-being.

Both concepts in the end aim at providing the greatest happiness to each country's subjects, and both have been initiated through the love and ingenuity of both countries' monarchs.

Of course, happiness is difficult to measure; in fact, it's debatable whether it can be measured at all, and if so, what would be the best way to measure it. A friend who once visited Bhutan told me it was all about being content with the simple, beautiful things that life had to offer.

Contentment may sound like a simple notion, one that's rather difficult to appreciate, especially in today's world of relentless capitalism and consumption. Most of us are embroiled in yearning for more in a world of survival of the fittest.

We Thais have been very fortunate to have such a wise and vigilant King to give us constant warnings and advice, and it would be regrettable if we didn't start practising what His Majesty has been preaching while the rest of world was praising his self-sufficiency initiative. The UN Development Programme will include the concept in its annual report next year so that other countries may also benefit from it.

An extremely valuable philosophy has been born right here under our very noses, but negligence rules the day. How our happiness is enhanced depends completely on our own participation. Let us not let the spirit of wearing those yellow shirts and wristbands die after the lights, sounds and ecstatic feelings have faded away. We are long overdue for improving our own lives and living up to our claim that we love our King.

Our beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej has led the way for so long. His advice and suggestions are simple and clear, and anyone who wants to can adapt them for use in daily life. Each of us can contribute to a better, happier society by taking action to change our ways and deeds for the better.

Let us start with the willingness to do so.

 Veenarat Laohapakakul