A Thai nurse holds incense sticks as she offers prayers for the recovery of Thai King Bhumibol Adulayadej, who has been hospitalized since mid-September with respiratory problems. (Christophe Archambault for Getty Images)

Happy Thai Father’s Day and happy 82nd birthday to the beloved King of Siam, the world’s longest reigning monarch (63 years!).  His Majesty is so revered as a demi-god that his birthday is a national holiday in Thailand, a time when even polarized political parties lay down their verbal weapons to celebrate together all over the country, joyously singing the royal anthem in unison and donning the color pink in the King’s honor.  Businesses are closed and streets are blocked as hundreds of thousands of Thais gather to partake in candle-lighting ceremonies everywhere, watch a pyrotechnics show, or march in the annual military parade in front of Bangkok’s Grand Palace.  Many will also attend a screening of a 160 million baht 4D documentary biopic to be projected on the wall of the throne hall and accompanied by a live orchestra and singers.

This year’s festivities will be like a sigh of relief for Thais after two and a half months of bottled up tension due to concern over His Majesty’s health.  Speaking ill of the monarchy is not surprisingly a crime punishable with up to 15 years in prison, but so is even speaking of his illness.  The state of the King’s health and his hospital stay have highlighted uncertainty about this politically turbulent country’s future, even affecting its financial markets.  People are afraid to even ask “What if…?”

Since 1946, His Majesty has outlived 13 constitutions, 16 successful or attempted coups, and 26 prime ministers. He has witnessed the remarkable transformation of Thailand from a backwater of superstition and poverty to a modern economy.

King Bhumibol is the backbone of this country.  Long live the King, because I don’t want to be around to witness the crumbling of Thailand’s political landscape after its sole unifying figure’s death.