Some like it spicy!

Before I came to Thailand, I was tolerant of spicy foods and even enjoyed the occasional spicy dish. Now that I have been exposed to "ahaan Thai pet maak" (very spicy Thai food) every day for 6 weeks, I find that I actually crave the spice. When I am served a "mai pet" meal (not spicy), I find myself reaching for the chili oyster sauce. This simple condiment has become a favorite of mine, and I am determined to master it's creation before I head home to the US, the land of bland. Is it the sweating I enjoy? The prickling on my lips that can't be undone with any amount of ice water? I wonder how and why Thailand has adopted such spicy foods. Is it because chilies grow exceptionally well in tropical weather? Did ancient Thai traditional medicine practitioners discover health benefits related to spicy foods? Whatever the reason, I'm stoked to be broadening my taste buds with every spicy chili! Aroi maak (very tasty)!