Album 21
(16 February to 13 March 1999)
Burma (or Myanmar, as the current rulers have renamed it) is a strange place.
It's like living 1984 and knowing that you are (along with everyone
around you).
The official policy is:
*oppose those relying on external elements, acting as stooges, holding negative views.
*oppose those trying to jeopardize stability of the state and progress of the nation.
*oppose foreign nations interfering in internal affairs of the state.
*crush all internal and external destructive elements as the common enemy.
But let's get past that for a moment and look at life:
The strong economy,
(photo by Sandra Basic)
(a small part of $100 on the black market - 50 times official rate)
The hard work,
the gourmet food,
the forgiveness from above,
(release the bird, release bad karma)
the weightlifting,
(photo by Sandra Basic)
The modern protection from harmful sun,
the health insurance,
and morning routine.
Burma is a surreal place - especially as the government is so horrible
and the people are so decent (unlike in China or Vietnam).
We were lucky to see a paya (pagoda) festival in Hsipaw
and discover some new food.
There were wonderful, beautiful people everywhere:
And monks who would cut your hair for $1 ("no government money!")
(photo by Sandra Basic)
There was the patient fish-catching method.
and occasional reminder the religion rules all things.
(photo by Sandra Basic)
There is, best of all, a joie de vivre
that makes it clear that no-one agrees with the government,
but because they
are tolerant (too much for outsiders),
they let the government think that it is
under control.
It would be better without such a horrible burden,
but the people
wouldn't change that much in the way they see things...
Next - Thailand - the developed world
(Just 5 to go!)
Next Album
Top of Page