Today is the National Day of Bhutan, a public holiday there. This holiday commemorates the coronation of the first King of Bhutan on this day in 1907.
Bhutan’s official name is the Kingdom of Bhutan. It is also known as “The Land of the Thunder Dragon.” This refers to Druk the mythical dragon, a national symbol of Bhutan.
Bhutan was first unified in the early 17th century by a Buddhist monk, Ngawang Namgyal. It was ruled under the Tibetan dual system of government led by the Zhabdrung – reincarnations of the mind, body and speech of Ngawang Namgyal.
In the late 19th century, Bhutan was being pulled apart by conflicts with Tibet and the British Empire. This led to a power struggle between regional leaders with Ugyen Wangchuck, the Ponlop of Tongsa in central Bhutan emerging as the dominant figure in Bhutan, uniting the country and establishing better relations with British India.
The rise of Ugyen Wangchuck highlighted the ineffectiveness of the dual system and in November 1907, an assembly of religious leaders and, government officials was held, which decided to end the 300-year-old dual system of government and to establish a new absolute monarchy with Ugyen Wangchuck as the king.
December 17th 1907 saw the Coronation of His Majesty the First King of Bhutan, Druk Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck. This established the Wangchuck Dynasty which continues to rule Bhutan. The Druk Gyalpo is the official title of the head of state of Bhutan, meaning “Dragon King” in Dzongkha.
Beer…
We’ve been getting some Christmas cards…
BADA BINGLE
I quit driving 10 years ago because Jesus never did take the wheel and my guardian angels are all in therapy.
If you don’t like tea, then a cup of tea is not your cup of tea.
I accidentally used my wife’s fabric scissors to cut wrapping paper and now the cops are here.
I accidentally signed a work email, “Should you have any questions, please don’t. Hesitate to ask.” It’s now my new email closing.
I thought growing old would take longer.
I don’t always have time to fold laundry, but when I do, I don’t.
Then Jesus said unto the sick, You better have insurance.”
Then Jesus said unto the stranger, “Are you here legally?”
Then Jesus said unto the hungry, “My taxes better not be paying for these loaves and fishes.”
Then Jesus said unto the poor, “This is your own fault.”
Someone said “30 years ago” and my mind went to the 1970s, but they meant 1994, and now I need to lie down.
If you’re having second thoughts, you’re two ahead of most people.
I hate it when people are at your house and ask, “Do you have a bathroom?” “No, we pee in the yard”.
Experts warn mass deportations could lead to a severe scapegoat shortage.
A special thanks to all the Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist, and Agnostic mail carriers who deliver Christmas cards without screaming that it goes against their beliefs.
Since I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to realize why Bigfoot stays away from people.
More holiday music. Here is a young Ariana Grande. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfCdkyQyaJ8
