Thai sash

This red checkered sash I have on was given to me by one of the old men on my train ride south.
Even though I couldn't understand his speaking, through eye contact I had a pretty good idea about what he was trying to say.
I knew he was trying to give me advice and to tell me about his life and how to be good, just like alot of older men ive met in bars who wanted to share their experience.
Before he left he had me stand up, and he tied it around my waist.
Later I found a Thai who spoke English.
He told me this sash means your from the country, instead of the city.
Farmers here use it as a blanket, a belt and a pocket.
He said the old man probably gave it too me because he wanted me to take care of myself.
When I spent 7 days camping I used it as my blanket and used the blanket I brought to cover the ground.
That experience meant alot to me.