Myanmar is an enigma, wrapped in a puzzle, caught in a labyrinth, as the saying goes. On the surface it works. At the next level it is close to chaos, but at its core, it is humanity doing its work. To my western mind, the place is in dire need of organization and orchestration.
Everywhere there is refuse of all kinds including buildings torn apart in the last typhoon, and the western mind says, "Clean up your garbage!" Their homes are in dire need of paint and general repair. And yet, everywhere you look the people are by and large happy at the core. The produce is abundant and very fresh and people seem to eat well overall.
The standards of cleanliness do not measure up to most western digestive systems, but, as with other places where North Americans may travel, while not good for our tummies, the locals have no issues with the food and are nourished appropriately by the local flora and fauna.
We came away with a great appreciation of the people of Myanmar and their acceptance of their situation. While they wish for and push for changes, they are also cognizant of the slower pace of change. Still, we were not prepared for the pace at which the country has changed. The travel books we read prepared us for a more unconnected and unplugged world.
In the last year, two new service providers entered the cellular telephone market and everywhere you go, there are adults and children with smart phones. Even in Kalopi in the Mon State, one of the poorest areas we visited, there were children with smart phones who were eager to have their pictures taken with the strangers in town.
The principle religion in Myanmar is Buddhism. The most well known Buddhist today is His Holiness, The Dalai Lama, the leader of the Tibetan Buddhists. His primary message is to act with Loving Kindness, a message which appears to be very much taken to heart by the people of Myanmar that we have had the privilege to meet.
We thank the people of Myanmar for their welcome, their openness and their generosity in receiving us. One cannot come away from this enigmatic country without being touched deeply by genuineness and inner beauty of a truly peaceful people.
Jezu timbare (Thank you) for your loving kindness, people of Myanmar.
