Burma’s Eye Witnesses, Part 5

Posted in America’s with tags Thingyan on April 22, 2009 by buffalohair

The Thingyan Celebration was a resounding success though in the beginning everyone was shy at first. There was representation from many cultural groups with the Karen being the most prevalent. Ashin Thila Nanda began with a traditional Buddhist prayer then there were a few speeches. In the background there was a myriad of culinary delights already prepared and there was a Chin group who was providing the entertainment. The weeks of preparation have ended as well as the chaos in the final hours before this celebration.

I was on the roster and had a prepared speech but when I got up to the podium I found myself at a loss for words. That was unusual for me since I rarely am without something to say. But as I panned the audience I could not help but feel a rush of emotion as I viewed all these beautiful people in their traditional finery. Knowing their journeys and the hardships they endured both in Burma and the refugee camps I found it hard to find the words. Before me were the innocent survivors of genocide and unspeakable crimes against humanity. But here they were in this beautiful Buddhist Temple about to celebrate Thingyan no longer fearful for their lives. These were the people of Burma I’ve dedicated myself to fight for their democracy.

With formalities out of the way Thingyan began without a hitch. Slowly the group began to loosen up as the music began to play. The Pone Gyi and several nuns made an appearance as well and everyone began to enjoy the festivities of the day. Eventually everyone, including the shy ones, were singing, eating and dancing. Water began to flow as the tradition of cleansing took center stage. One ingenious kid grabbed the hose and made sure everyone in the hall got a good drenching. But the tiny kids stole the show for me.

Later I was informed many people at the gathering suffered from depression since they arrived in the US. They grappled with isolation and fear in this strange new land. Some were here for several years while others only a few months. But now they were outside of their apartment complexes enjoying this Gala event for the first time since they left Burma. When we found Ashin Thila Nanda a monastery we also found sanctuary for the refugees as well. Call it a sense of belonging or a sense of community but whatever it was it brought smiles back to their faces and now they have a place they could call home. Next weekend will commemorate Buddha’s birthday and they will all be at their new found temple. Thingyan has brought forth a very promising New Year and Ashin Thila Nanda with the people he loves.

It was a great honor to celebrate this New Year with the survivors from Burma. It was a priceless moment to watch as joy returned to their once sorrow filled hearts. Now they look to the future with hope and dignity since now they are centered. There are no words to describe my gratitude to the head monk and his staff. Opening his monastery to my friends truly changed lives in a good way.

Your Devil’s Advocate

Buffalohair