Ordinary lives

This blog tends to be pretty lightweight, I know. I don’t aim to set down more than a collection of inconsequential ramblings, recording the day-to-day trivia of my ordinary life. Today, though, there’s something else I want to write about.

I’ve long followed events in Burma (Myanmar), a land I first visited in 1990, and where I subsequently worked for a short time as a teacher. I have many friends there – kind, funny, generous-hearted people living resiliently in difficult circumstances. I know they will be watching the current political protests in their country with a mixture of excitement and fear. Some, the most courageous, may be among the protesters – putting themselves at considerable personal risk.

The outcome of this stand against a brutal regime is uncertain. Recent history suggests it may only invite further oppression. But let’s hope, as my friends must fervently be hoping, that it is the turning point towards a better future for Burma.

Light a candle, say a prayer or what you will - but please take a moment to think of those many good people in a far off place, living in dangerous times, longing to lead ordinary lives.