Tres, Tres Pensees

Thurs, 18 Oct 07

I returned to work after 1.5 days of break. I achieved quite a bit today.

First thing this morning, before heading to work, I went for my blood test.

Then I launched vicious complaints about colleagues who were damn bloody rude (don't know how they became top management). I cannot swallow such abuse. I managed to kick such a fuss that they are now looking into outsourcing the help desk calls.

Finally completed my newsletter, my executive summaries on Pakistan & Myanmar. As I was reading the articles on these countries, I found myself thinking of their country, their lives, their political and economical situation.

In the case of Myanmar, they contribute to 40% of the world's gas export supply. They have abundant of oil and gas resources (and also valuable stones such as ruby, emerald, diamonds). So where did their income go to? The Burmese are so poor that they cannot afford diesel or oil for their vehicles. They can't feed their family and most are starving. Yet, the army general had the money to throw a lavish wedding for his daughter and flaunt it for all to see. It's ironic. A

peaceful demonstration becomes bloody.

I think to Aung San Suu Kyi who gave up her freedom and be under house arrest for the past 12 years; who gave up time with her two children and her husband; who gave up the last chance to see her husband at his funeral... Who would have this courage? Her sacrifices are so great that I cannot describe it with words - for the democracy of Myanmar, for the Burmese, for the cause her father, General Aung San fought and died for the independence of Burma from the British.

On the other side of the world, Pakistan, also experiencing instability due to political situation. On the spot light, a lady as well. Well-known and well-loved by Pakistanis, Benazir Bhutto. She was born to the famous Bhutto family (her paternal grandfather and father were both important figures in the Pakistan political scene). I wonder why then did she turn to corruption during her two terms as Prime Minister? Is she from a society that allows corruption and special powers? And what qualities does she have to enjoy the love from her fellow country men?

I kept studying their pictures. Both ladies have a special air - charisma, beauty, serenity... Though I'm not a Burmese or Pakistani, I can imagine why they are so well-loved by their countrymen. Perhaps when the going gets tough, the heroines are sources of hope and light for the country, for the people, for the people's children.