If you want to really understand Thai people you must come to grips with the Mai Pen Rai factor.  Its not just a phrase its wa way of life. Literally meaning, it does not matter, it has come to be one of the great definers of the Thai character. Being able to deal with difficult situations, not brooding over material and personal loss and an all-pervading cheerfulness are the hallmarks of Mai Pen Rai.  The philosophy of Mai Pen Rai is one of the things that makes Thais unique