Burmese exiles in western Thailand honor religious tradition and cultural heritage during this year?s Festival of Lights..."...Despite the challenges facing Mae Sot?s culturally diverse population, the city?s Burmese and Thai communities put aside their suspicions and came together under a full moon in October to celebrate an ancient religious festival. While the revelry of the coming evening?s festivities is a large part of the celebration, the day of October?s full moon begins on a solemn—and appropriately religious—note. Before dawn, the city?s monks emerge from their monasteries and walk single-file according to the rank of ordination to accept the day?s alms from crowds of devotees..."