I have received a couple of comments recently regarding the courageous holy work by Burma’s (Myanmar? Never heard of it) moral centre, the good monks who fear no illegitimate, tyrannical ruler. By my estimation, several monks should have been shot by now and at least three times as many imprisoned or being unjustly interrogated.
I don’t want this protest to end through the physical defeat of the brave men and women in Burma – i.e., a repeat of 1988 where so many were slaughtered, and at that time, dissension was truly defeated. But the correct way of living one’s life is not necessarily written in visible, extravagant power. and now things are gaining momentum. The monstrous despots of Burma WILL fall, you mark my words. The triumvirate of old loonies is soon going to (figuratively) die, whether by tha hand of holy men, young students, or the pressure of the international community. Some German newspapers are pessimistic about what effect other countries might have. It is true, and murderous governments like the Chinese government, who are no better than their Burmese lapdogs, are afraid of a repeat of what happened in Eastern Europe: one country’s despotic government falls, and the rest follow.
Let them hold out for a little longer, just a little longer – and justice will be done, perhaps not in every way, but perhaps in some ways. People often forget that democracy, despite being a hard-won victory, as often been won: America, France, Australia, World War II (me not so sure about Iraq now). But Burma is a different story, thanks to the brave monks who have led the young peaceful people of Burma to defend their honour.
‘Two sets of beliefs are colliding in Burma: on one side the monks, devotees to an ancient creed, demanding democratic freedom and economic reform, on the other a vicious, modern military machine, adhering to a medieval code of prophecies, astral omens and superstition. You don’t have to be clairvoyant to predict which belief will triumph.’
- The Times
China is trading blood for oil, with it’s veto power in the UN.
Perhaps, we should join the call to boycott the Olympics in 2008.
Free Burma!
International Bloggers’ Day for Burma on the 4th of October
International bloggers are preparing an action to support the peaceful revolution in Burma. We want to set a sign for freedom and show our sympathy for these people who are fighting their cruel regime without weapons. These Bloggers are planning to refrain from posting to their blogs on October 4 and just put up one Banner then, underlined with the words „Free Burma!“.
http://www.free-burma.org
I think what will eventually happen in Burma is that the military will fracture and bring down it’s leaders. There are many reports that the average soldiers and mid-level leaders and deeply unhappy about having to oppress monks. I read a report of one Major in the military there who testified to the unease.
I have great faith in impermanence, always. And that includes the impermanence of this regime as you alluded to. Thanks for blogging about this and keeping the dialog alive.