#Insight Myanmar Podcast Blog - Insight Myanmar

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Teaching Pa Auk in the West

Years ago, Beth Upton joined our podcast platform just as she was gearing up to begin teaching meditation in the West. When I asked her about the challenges and differences in teaching to Westerners, as opposed to the many years she had spent previously in Myanmar, this is what she had to say.

“The Pa Auk method takes time. It takes time for the understanding of non-self to deepen and the mind to mature.”

— Beth Upton

“Teaching Westerners is what I hope to dedicate the next chunk of my life to. And the biggest issue is creating context for that. I don't see any particularly big issue in terms of the Western mind or anything like that. Westerners can practice well.

But the Pa Auk method takes time. It takes time for the understanding of non-self to deepen and the mind to mature.

A lot of meditation practice in the West is done in the context of retreats. I find that really limiting. What I'm doing this year is teaching back-to-back retreats, but I don't see that as a sustainable way to bring depth of teaching to the West. We also face an integration problem where people's experience of the Dharma is limited to 10-day or one-month retreats. So I've spent the past six years trying to build community. Initially, it worked well for us when we were squatting the land and living in caves in southern Spain, keeping costs low and sustaining ourselves through dana. However, that was an adolescent community, and we weren’t legal. Now, I'm looking at how we can scale and establish a long-term space to hold the Dharma at depth. There are contextual problems to address. We don't have a culture of dana, wise association, or an abundance of good teachers [here in the West]. Those in teaching positions can easily burn out and lack adequate resources compared to Myanmar. I'm still gently trying to figure out the best way to approach these challenges. As for the ability of Western meditators to practice this type of meditation, I don't see an issue.”

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How to Indulge Your Wanderlust During the Coronavirus Pandemic.

The past few days have been rather scary. Mask-covered faces. Queues to wash hands in public toilets. Sanitizers constantly out of stock. Accusatory looks towards anyone coughing or sneezing. Eerily empty hotels, flights and streets following the lockdown travel advice for Coronavirus. Places that were once plagued by overtourism are now deserted. The spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus has suddenly brought all usual life – and travel – to a halt.

Until a week or two ago, the panic felt rooted in social media, whatsapp forwards and even racial profiling. At that time, I posted on Instagram that I would continue my travels. But in light of recent developments, I’ve archived that post, cancelled some rather exciting travel plans until April and urged everyone to do the same.

I was scheduled to conduct a workshop on responsible tourism marketing in Madhya Pradesh and speak at the prestigious Economic Times Women’s Forum this month – but both events have been cancelled.

In fact, India has cancelled all visas for foreigners till mid April. Sri Lanka has suspended its e-visa facility. Italy is under lock down. Public events have been cancelled in most parts of the world. Schools and colleges have been shut in most Indian states. India’s travel advice for coronavirus is to cancel all non-essential travel abroad. Indians returning from China, Italy, Iran, Korea, France, Spain, Germany, Malaysia, Nepal and even the US can potentially be sent to 14 days of quarantine!

Chances are, you already know that. You, like me, have cancelled your immediate travel plans. And probably you, like me, are wondering what you can do now to indulge your wander-lusting soul!

Here are some creative ideas to satiate your travel cravings – safely and responsibly – during this uncertain coronavirus period:

Read non-fiction books by local authors to virtually explore a new region or country

I’ve dreamt of setting foot in Tibet for a long time, knowing fully well that the Tibet of my dreams is off limits (or no longer exists). So a while ago, I did the next best thing to travelling in Tibet – reading a book that movingly explores its lost beauty, culture and way of life. Tibet With My Eyes Closed is a collection of short stories by Madhu Gurung, based on the lives of Tibetan refugees in India. Some stories moved me to tears, while others left me with an insatiable longing. I can’t recommend it enough!

My point is, as per official travel advice for coronavirus, the entire world is off limits right now. But we can do the next best thing – travel to our dream places through the words and insights of people who know them deeply.

If you dream of Iran, for instance, read Reading Lolita In Tehran. If you dream of Myanmar, read From The Land Of Green Ghosts. If you dream of the Caucasus (Georgia / Azerbaijan), read Ali And Nino.

For more book recommendations, see my favorite (unusual) travel books by local authors around the world. If you’re keen to explore the world from my lens, you can also get a copy of my travel memoir, The Shooting Star

Also read: What No One Tells You About Writing and Publishing a Book in India

Learn a new language that will make a future trip more meaningful

Everywhere I travel, I try to pick up a few words in the local language. But in the weeks before I travelled to Japan, I tried to listen to one episode of a Japanese language podcast every day. By the time I landed in Tokyo, I was able to say many basic phrases in Japanese – which sure made it easier to make friends, find local vegan food and even get some unusual recommendations.

The process of learning a language can certainly make us feel like we’re almost on our way somewhere. The Survival Phrases podcast is good for conversational skills and the Babbel / Duolingo apps can help with basics. But if you really want to commit, consider signing up with an online teacher for one-to-one Skype lessons on a site like italki (I haven’t used it yet but heard good things).

I took Urdu writing lessons last year, but have been terrible at keeping up with what I learnt. I’ve pledged to practice a bit everyday now!

Also read: Unusual Solo Travel Destinations to Feed Your Adventurous Spirit

Document your past adventures

I still have tons of untold stories from my travels over the years. If you’re a travel writer, blogger, photographer, Instagrammer or any kind of storyteller, you’re probably full of stories too – and always wishing for more time to be able to tell them. Or perhaps you have a special interest in architecture, vegan food, wildlife, languages or something else – and you could combine that with your past travels to create unique stories.

All travel advice for Coronovirus suggests not going on a physical journey. But we can still journey into the recesses of our minds, relive some of our adventures and share them with the world. After all, we could all use a little break from the negative news out there!

Also read: How I’m Funding my Adventures Around the World Through Travel Blogging

Binge watch the wonders of our planet

Many of us travel to witness the breathtaking beauty of nature and the cultural wonders of the world. Unfortunately both are fast disappearing.

Video streaming sites online are full of films and documentaries about our incredible planet, wildlife, remote cultures and more. Now is a good time to plug into them, both to feed our wanderlust and to remind ourselves what we stand to lose. Maybe the travel advice for coronavirus and this time away from the road, work, school, college and social gatherings can be a time to reflect on how we need to make better life and travel choices to collectively help the planet.

I’ve been meaning to finish watching One Strange Rock on Netflix, which explains the wonders of earth from the fascinating perspectives of astronauts. And start Our Planet, which documents the impact of climate change on the world’s most remote and vulnerable regions.

Also read: Tajikistan: A Country That’s Not on Your Travel Radar, But Should Be.

Support small responsible travel businesses virtually

As you can probably imagine, this is one of the worst times for the travel industry. March, otherwise peak travel season for many places around the world, has been a month of cancellations. April might go the same way, though I really hope not. Small business owners, family-run homestays, social enterprises and responsible tourism businesses will be some of the worst hit this year.

All travel advice for coronavirus suggests we can’t physically travel this month to support them or the work they do for local communities and environment conservation. But small gestures can go a long way. Leave them a heartfelt review on Google Reviews / TripAdvisor. Mention them on Instagram / Twitter. Recommend them to family and friends for future trips. When the coronavirus pandemic is behind us, they’ll need our tourism money the most. Let’s make sure they’re found, remembered and supported then!

Also read: Offbeat, Incredible and Sustainable – These Travel Companies are Changing the Way You Experience India

Work on your storytelling

Perhaps experimenting with writing, blogging, photography or videos has been on your mind for a long time. Or you still need to perfect some skills. I know I need to get better at editing videos. I could use some professional photography help, but my heart is only half in it. I still have a ton of SEO work to do on this blog. And there’s no end to becoming a better writer.

Here’s a silver lining for the travel advice for coronavirus: Use the time you would’ve spent travelling or socializing, to work on something that might enable you to travel or work on the go in the future!

Also read: Advice for the Young and Penniless Who Want to Travel

International travel is out. But should you travel domestically now?

Many of you have reached out to ask for my travel advice for coronavirus with respect to domestic travel in India (and elsewhere). I think it’s a bad idea. For several reasons:

It’s just not fun. I felt an inexplicable anxiety during the last two days of my recent Chhattisgarh trip. Hearing someone cough sent a shiver down my spine. The last thing I wanted was to have to put myself in self-isolation in someone’s homestay or in a soulless hotel. Or worse, be quarantined in a government facility.

The fear of carrying the virus to a remote part of India. The idea of travelling from urban India – where the majority of coronavirus cases are (in Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Kochi etc) – to rural India is a scary one. Imagine if we have the virus but the symptoms haven’t yet shown up. We could be carrying it to small villages where medical facilities are rare and self-isolation is difficult because entire families live in a single room. It’ll be mayhem.

The fear of infecting people more vulnerable to the virus. People over 60 and those with respiratory issues seem to be the most vulnerable to the coronavirus. We can’t risk being the vectors infecting them.

Flights, buses and trains can be coronavirus hotbeds. Given how infectious the coronavirus seems to be, being stuck among scores of people in a closed environment is a big no-no.

It’s best to postpone all international and domestic travel atleast until April (maybe longer, depending on how things turn out). We need to avoid busy places, public transport and any physical contact. We must constantly wash and sanitise our hands. And if we have even the mildest symptoms of fever, cough, cold or flu, we absolutely must stay at home and follow official protocols!

How has coronavirus affected your travel plans? If you run a travel business, what’s it been like for you?

Also read:

11 Tips to Ease Your Transition Into a Vegan Lifestyle

Incredible Experiences That’ll Make You Fall in Love With Uzbekistan

Should Travel Bloggers and Influencers Voice Their Political Opinions?

The post How to Indulge Your Wanderlust During the Coronavirus Pandemic. appeared first on The Shooting Star.

How to Indulge Your Wanderlust During the Coronavirus Pandemic. published first on https://airriflelab.tumblr.com

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Seeking Change in Iran, and Burma

The following reflection was submitted by Preena Patel after listening to a recent podcast episode.

From the moment I pressed play on Episode 162: Contrasting Iran and Myanmar, my heart became heavy with a whirlwind of emotions. The narratives unfolding in Iran and Myanmar tugged at the very core of my being, evoking a profound sense of empathy, anger, and urgency.

As the discussion unfolded, I couldn't help but put myself in the shoes of those experiencing the turmoil first-hand. Imagining the struggles faced by the Iranian people, their disgust with "westoxification," and their longing for a society that reflects their values deeply touched me. The yearning for change, driven by a desire for justice and cultural preservation, struck a chord within my soul.

The tragic consequences of these aspirations were equally heart-wrenching. The brutal repression, the Morality Police, and the Iran-Iraq War became scars etched upon the lives of ordinary Iranians. The echoes of history repeating themselves, with the people's discontent simmering beneath the surface before bursting forth, reminded me of the immense pain and resilience that defines their struggle.

And then, the parallels between Myanmar and Iran emerged, illuminating the universality of human suffering. The tragic deaths of teenagers, and the innocent lives lost at the hands of oppressive forces, shattered my heart into a thousand pieces. The images of young voices being silenced, of families torn apart, left me feeling an overwhelming sense of helplessness and despair.

Yet, amidst the darkness, rays of hope shone through. The unity forged among diverse religious and ethnic groups, and the unwavering courage of young activists leading the charge reignited a spark within me. Witnessing their resilience and determination to fight for justice and human rights awakened a sense of admiration and inspiration.

The call to keep international attention on these critical situations pierced through the noise, resonating deep within my conscience. It reminded me of the collective responsibility we bear to stand in solidarity with those who face oppression. It ignited a fire within me to use my voice, my platform, to amplify their struggles, and ensure their stories are heard across the globe.

Professor Mahdavi's thought-provoking question lingered in my mind, haunting my every thought: "What kind of situation must people be facing to be willing to die for their cause?" It struck a raw nerve, reminding me of the immense sacrifices made by these courageous individuals. It propelled me to question my role in supporting their fight, and how I can contribute to meaningful, lasting change rooted in justice and human rights.

In a world often plagued by apathy and indifference, these stories of resilience and resistance awaken the dormant activist within me. They ignite a fierce determination to stand alongside those yearning for freedom, to advocate for a world where no one must face such unimaginable circumstances. It is through collective action, unwavering solidarity, and relentless advocacy that we can forge a path towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.

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R2P, ICJ, and IIMM

Last year, Liam Scott of the Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect (Global R2P) appeared on our podcast platform to discuss the international response to the Myanmar coup. While he expressed an honest frustration with the lack of support and involvement on the part of many actors, he also cautioned that these mechanisms can take a long time, and that perseverance in pursuing human rights in Myanmar was critical.

“While it is understandable to feel frustration and impatience with the pace of justice and accountability in Myanmar, it is vital to continue advocating for progress.”

— Liam Scott

“In 2017, the Human Rights Council established a fact-finding mission on Myanmar to investigate human rights abuses. This mission was later replaced by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) in 2019, which is currently collecting and preserving evidence of human rights abuses committed by the military, including those perpetrated since 2011. The IIMM plays a crucial role in the broader context of justice and accountability in Myanmar.

One significant development in terms of justice and accountability is the case filed by the Gambia at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Myanmar for violating the 1948 Genocide Convention. This case focuses on the genocidal acts committed against the Rohingya in 2017. The ongoing hearings at The Hague mark an important step in seeking justice and accountability for these crimes.

Justice and accountability are integral components of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) and are emphasized in the work of organizations like the Global Center. Victims and survivors deserve justice and reparations, and trials contribute to cementing the historical record of atrocities. Moreover, accountability mechanisms serve as a deterrent for future atrocities, as perpetrators realize the consequences of their actions.

However, it is understandable to feel a sense of hopelessness when progress appears slow or limited. The UN fact-finding mission's conclusion that Min Aung Hlaing should be prosecuted for crimes against humanity throughout Rakhine and Shan States, and the assessment that he continues to harbor genocidal intent towards the Rohingya, highlights the gravity of the situation. The lack of concrete action following these findings can be disheartening.

While justice and accountability processes can be complex and time-consuming, it is essential to continue pushing for progress and holding perpetrators accountable. The IIMM's ongoing work, along with the ICJ case, represents important steps towards justice for the Rohingya and potentially broader accountability in Myanmar.

It is crucial to maintain pressure on the international community to ensure that justice and accountability efforts are pursued vigorously. While progress may not always be immediate or apparent, the collective pursuit of justice remains essential to address the suffering and injustices endured by the people of Myanmar.

In summary, while it is understandable to feel frustration and impatience with the pace of justice and accountability in Myanmar, it is vital to continue advocating for progress. The work of the IIMM, the ICJ case, and ongoing efforts serve as important mechanisms to hold perpetrators accountable and provide justice to the victims. By maintaining pressure and raising awareness, we contribute to the long-term goal of achieving justice, accountability, and preventing future atrocities.”

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Burma's Isolation

Melody Mociulski first came to Burma in 1974 as a backpacker on the Hippie Trail, and has been involved with the country since, as she discussed in our recent podcast conversation. As a world traveler who has been to dozens of countries, I asked her, “Why Burma?” In other words, what about the country and people stayed in her heart, after all these years and this distance, to continue to be as involved as she’s been. This is her answer.

“These young people possess the necessary tools and connections in their minds to organize and communicate, while minimizing their risk of being caught within the country. They are even willing to sacrifice their lives for progress.”

— Melody Mociulski

“I guess there are two factors that I keep pondering over. One is the country's prolonged isolation for at least 50 years. Generations have grown up knowing only one way of life, unaware of the positive aspects of the West. It's similar to what we've seen in Korea, where people only know what they hear and that becomes their world. They understand hunger and the absence of books, but they lack broader knowledge. However, the younger generation [in Myanmar], who have had more exposure and awareness in the last 12-15 years, are more informed. They have joined networks in other countries, learned how to communicate rapidly, and mobilized effectively. I truly believe that the civil disobedience movement today has gained momentum due to these young people who possess the necessary tools and connections in their minds to organize and communicate, while minimizing their risk of being caught within the country. They are even willing to sacrifice their lives for progress.

The other factor I see is the geography. As an American, I'm always surprised to learn how few Americans have traveled outside the US. Not everyone here cares about the rest of the world. They are often influenced by news, whether accurate or not, but they don't truly care. They are focused on their own lives. This attitude likely exists in many other countries as well. So, when it comes to Burma, surrounded by larger nations, people may have a vague awareness. They know about the Burma Road and its significance during the war with Japan, but they don't really know much about Burma, or Myanmar as it's now called. They might have heard the name Aung San Suu Kyi, but they lack a deep understanding of her story.”

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Awakening the Soul: Exploring Myanmar's Spirituality and Compassionate Resilience

Preena Patel listened to a recent podcast and describes how the episode impacted her. She heard Steve Jarand and Kati Schweitzer describe the extended time they spent in Burmese meditation centers and monasteries.

“The speakers’ words resonated within me, stirring a sense of empathy, compassion, and a desire to make a difference.”

As a listener, I was captivated by the speakers, Steve and Kati's heartfelt account of their trip to Myanmar. Their genuine admiration for the country and its people resonated deeply with me. They bared their souls, revealing the raw and vulnerable aspects of their spiritual journeys in Myanmar. How they described the locals' warm and welcoming nature touched my heart and made me yearn to experience such genuine kindness firsthand. Their words carried a weight that echoed deep within me, stirring emotions I didn't know existed.

Throughout the conversation, the speakers shared personal anecdotes that painted vivid pictures in my mind and touched the depths of my heart. The image of being bathed and cared for by the villagers in Myanmar, their laughter filling the air, evoked a sense of warmth and belonging. It was a fleeting moment of connection, a glimpse into the profound kindness and generosity that permeates the culture. I couldn't help but smile and feel a sense of longing to experience such a genuine human connection.

Their tales of being embraced by the people of Myanmar, receiving gifts, and sharing laughter created a vivid image in my mind. It was heartwarming to hear how the locals, despite having so little, found joy in giving and sharing with others. I couldn't help but feel inspired by their genuine happiness and open-heartedness.

The couple's exploration of meditation and monastic life in Myanmar added another layer of depth to their story. Their reflections on their unique environment and its impact on their spiritual journey were truly captivating. I found myself drawn into their experiences, wanting to understand more about the integration of teachings into daily life and the transformative power of meditation in Myanmar.

Listening to Steve and Kati's emotional journey through Myanmar made me realize the profound impact that travels and cultural immersion can have on our lives. It reminded me of the importance of embracing different perspectives and finding joy in the simplest of moments. Their story left me longing to explore Myanmar myself and discover the beauty and wisdom that Steve and Kati were fortunate to experience.

By infusing their narrative with personal stories, cultural insights, and heartfelt emotions, Steve and Kati have contributed to a podcast episode that is both appealing and emotionally impactful. Their genuine enthusiasm and deep connection to the subject shine through, making it a compelling listen for anyone seeking inspiration, cultural exploration, and personal growth.

The speakers' accounts of sitting with senior monks, wise souls who had relinquished worldly attachments, left me in awe. Their presence emanated a quiet strength and a deep well of wisdom. It was as if their very being exuded tranquillity and inner peace, inviting others to find solace in their presence. I could almost feel the weight of their words hanging in the air, carrying profound insights that touched the very core of my being. It was a reminder that true spirituality is not found in books or theories alone but in the unspoken language of the heart.

But what truly moved me was the speakers' unwavering dedication to supporting the people of Myanmar amidst the turmoil caused by the military coup. They highlighted the diverse range of humanitarian missions they were involved in, from aiding the civil disobedience movement to providing food, shelter, and medical supplies to the affected communities. Their commitment to helping those in need, even at the risk of their comfort and safety, struck a chord deep within me. It reminded me of the power of compassion and the urgent need to stand in solidarity with our fellow human beings.

As a listener, I was not merely a passive observer but an active participant in this emotional journey. The speakers' words resonated within me, stirring a sense of empathy, compassion, and a desire to make a difference. Their stories, interwoven with the rich tapestry of Myanmar's spiritual heritage, awakened a newfound appreciation for the interconnectedness of all beings. It reminded me that our paths are intertwined and that by extending a helping hand, we can create a ripple effect of positive change in the world.

In conclusion, this conversation touched the deepest recesses of my soul. It was a testament to the power of storytelling, vulnerability, and human connection. The speakers' willingness to share their personal experiences and insights created an emotional bond with me, the listener, urging me to embrace my spiritual journey and find ways to support those in need. It has sparked a flame of compassion and ignited a sense of purpose within me, driving me to seek a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.

If you're looking for a podcast that combines personal stories, profound insights, and a call to action, this episode is a must-listen. It will touch your heart, broaden your perspective, and inspire you to make a difference. Join me on this transformative journey and let's contribute to a better future for Myanmar together.

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Vipassana Meditation Retreats: Effort and Integration

Tempel Smith, a meditation teacher and committed social activist who was recently a guest on our podcast, has always sought to find a balance between different perspectives and ideologies. His upbringing with parents who held contrasting views, one being a Marxist and the other a believer in genetic determinism, exposed him to the idea that societal forces shape individuals' unconsciousness. As a young man, Tempel discovered solace in nature, untangling himself from the complexities of society during canoe trips. While studying physics at Reed College, he volunteered for environmental and social causes, encountering diverse activists who lived on the front lines of their values. Witnessing both peaceful and aggressive approaches, Tempel chose the path of nonviolent engagement. It was through meditation retreats that he found a practice aligning his values with daily life, breaking down the sense of self and resolving the dichotomy between nature and nurture. He grappled with the tension between intensive retreat experiences and social engagement but ultimately reconciled them through the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh. Tempel's journey led him to Myanmar, where he immersed himself in meditation and discovered monasteries that provided a supportive framework for his spiritual growth.

“Your body would dissolve into subtle sensations! The external context, there’s no access to it, because you’re in this dimly lit room. So, you’re not integrating as you go along.”

— Tempel Smith

“I sat my first Goenka retreat, and that was incredibly powerful. So different from the IMS [Insight Meditation Society] retreat, so deeply focused. It drew upon strength in a way that I didn't have for practicing that way at IMS. Just sitting focused in a sort of a dimly lit room, inside the body, doing body scans, and then watching what happened to my mind from that deep level of practice. That awoke more of the Theravadin view, that it's not about some psychological growth, and retreat by retreat, you can kind of be a little further awake than you were.

But there is this incredibly powerful modality that would break down, that would totally rip down your relationship to the conventional world, very assertively, break it down, so that your attention was just inside your body. Your body would dissolve into subtle sensations! The external context, there's no access to it, because you're in this dimly lit room. So, you're not integrating as you go along. The retreat itself is this incredible surgical depth of Theravadin practice.

And then I came out of that first Goenka retreat, and it was very powerful and hard to integrate with other sides of myself. I didn't know how to integrate that, along with the peace activism and being a functional human in society. It felt more of like going out into the wilderness, unplugging completely, and then being a little bit suspicious of plugging back in. Whereas, at the Insight Meditation Society retreats, and the Mahāsī approach, there is a pointing towards depth, but there’s also a sort of an integrate-as-you-go method.

Taste your food. Walk around the trees.

You can see how mindfulness is both broad and deep. And when I went on the Goenka retreat, it plunged me to a certain intensity and depth that I hadn't experienced before.

It's a funny thing about effort. I was a very willful person; so, I went into those nine days like I was rock climbing up Mount Everest, like every step was an effort of intention to apply the teachings. I had no relaxation in my approach. So, I came back to do another Goenka retreat. This was my fourth retreat, and I gave myself more permission than I thought was being offered to the students on the Goenka retreat, to approach it in a more relaxed manner. And strangely, with that balancing, and being less intentional about conquering my mind, making it stay in the protocol of just under your nose, in breathing, or in body sweeping, just adding a little bit more relaxation, I tumbled through the progress of Insight. Again, very innocent because there was no teaching context around it. I'd never read about it.

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Reclamation of an Identity

The words of Jesse Phenow, taken from a recent podcast conversation, encapsulate the profound significance of refugees reclaiming their identity and pride. The story of his friend, who had to assume a Thai identity to fit in and be treated well, highlights the challenges faced by refugees in navigating their sense of self in unfamiliar environments. It speaks to the pressure to conform, to shed their heritage, and to blend in seamlessly with the dominant culture.

Forced to conceal their true identities, these individuals experience a sense of shame and loss, as if their history, culture, and people are somehow diminished or unworthy. It is a struggle that many refugees face, compelled to adopt an easier, more socially acceptable narrative that erases their unique heritage and backgrounds.

However, as Jesse's friend discovered, the power of connection through social media and witnessing the ongoing conflict in their home country can ignite a transformative awakening. It rekindles the flame of belonging, inspiring them to reclaim their land, their people, and their cultural heritage. They realize that they have a rich history worth preserving, and that their identity should be cherished, not hidden away.

The emergence of organizations like 'I Am Knyaw' demonstrates the resilience and determination of these refugees to assert their equal worth. It signifies a collective movement towards reclaiming their true selves, shedding the labels imposed upon them, and demanding recognition for their unique identities. Through this process of reclamation, they aim to reshape societal perceptions, challenging the notion that their culture is lesser or insignificant.

The journey of refugees in reclaiming their identity and pride is a beautiful and transformative process. It reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of culture and heritage. It also highlights the importance of acknowledging and honoring the stories, struggles, and aspirations of refugees worldwide. Ultimately, this movement serves as an inspiration and a call to action, urging us all to recognize the equal worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their refugee status.

“Really strengthening this feeling of reclamation, the desire to be valued as Knyaw, not to be called Karen, and to be seen as equal. It’s just beautiful!”

— Jesse Phenow

“I want to speak to this reclamation of identity. I won't share this person's name, but I have a beloved friend, a brother, who is Knyaw. He grew up in the refugee camp, and then was able to go to a Thai school that was near the refugee camp. And while he was at Thai school, he had to assume a Thai identity in order to fit in, and to be treated well. Then eventually he resettled in New York.

And when he's in New York, he's one of the first Knyaw people there! He’s going to school and people are asking him, ‘Where are you from?’ And this guy goes on to share that he's from Thailand. I think after the first couple of times, he starts to realize that it's just so much easier, rather than identifying yourself as Karen, where most people will say, ‘Oh, you're Korean?’ he would actually just identify himself as Thai. And I think he kind of went on to share with me that he felt ashamed. He felt ashamed to be identified as a refugee, as someone who is stateless, who didn't have a land.

So really his entire early years and into high school, and then eventually college, just telling people he was Thai! And I think, again, that the proximity that social media has created to the conflict in Myanmar has, in this individual in particular, ignited a sense of like, ‘No, you know, what? I do have a land. I do have a people that are my own; I do have a history and a culture, that's worth reclaiming.’ Because there are people who are fighting and dying to reclaim it, to stake it, to value it as not lesser than but equal to.

They have just completely done a 180°! Now they are co-leading an organization called ‘I Am Knyaw.’ Really strengthening this feeling of reclamation, the desire to be valued as Knyaw, not to be called Karen, but to be referred to as Knyaw, and to be seen as equal. It's just beautiful! It's a special thing, especially here at The Urban Village, to be a part of that movement to help, programmatically and logistically, in that movement. It is a cool thing to witness and to be a part of.”

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Inner Resilience in Myanmar: Harnessing Three Powerful Tools to Navigate Adversity

In his appearance on a recent podcast episode, Rick Hanson was asked about good practices that people now resisting the military regime in Myanmar can keep in mind as they face horrific situations. Following is his response.

“The worse the situation, the more we need to draw upon these inner strengths, especially when the world around us is unsupportive or even terrible.”

— Rick Hanson

As an American psychologist, I help people in psychotherapy and also more generally in self-help and human potential through books, classes, and teachings. My life is filled with advantage, privilege, and comfort, and most of the people I try to help also have somewhat similar lives. So yes, it's absolutely different from what people face in places like Myanmar, or even here in America, where some people encounter truly awful conditions within our own country. It's important to acknowledge that distinction.

That being said, the underlying idea remains the same. We all face challenges in our lives, including extreme ones like atrocities happening in our communities or within our families. We must cope with them, gradually recover, and offer help to others. Along the way, we strive to maintain a core sense of well-being within ourselves. To accomplish this, we tap into various strengths and psychological resources such as mindfulness, compassion, resilience, grit, spiritual practices, emotional intelligence, moral commitments, and more. The worse the situation, the more we need to draw upon these inner strengths, especially when the world around us is unsupportive or even terrible. Tapping into our internal reservoirs of strength is not something exclusive to privileged Americans or a mere "la dee da" New Age concept. It is genuinely important.

When something terrible happens and we find ourselves running for our lives, survival becomes the primary focus. In those moments, we rely on the strength to flee, and little else is possible. However, once the dust settles a bit and we can catch our breath, even if it's just for a moment, there is always an opportunity for greater healing, learning, and growth. This ability to influence who we are becoming in the face of such terrible conditions resides within us, an inherent power that cannot be taken away. It's not just about enduring trauma; there is actually potential for development along the way. The Buddha taught long ago that suffering is the proximal condition for awakening, as it propels us in that direction.

I can discuss at length the specific ways to develop and utilize inner strengths, such as resilience, in a fundamental way. We can certainly delve deeper into that. However, in this moment, I can offer three things that are rooted in science and in how the brain and body work together. These are practical tools that people can utilize to navigate exceedingly difficult situations. So, let me mention them here.

First, there is mindfulness (Sati in Pali) — the capacity to witness your experiences rather than being completely consumed by them. It provides a brief respite, a space, a buffer between you and the immediate circumstances. Mindfulness involves being aware of both your inner experiences and the world around you. It is a foundational strength and inner resource that can be drawn upon when facing extreme difficulties.

Secondly, I want to emphasize the importance of the heart's connection. This refers to the profound and heartfelt connections between oneself and the world, the people we care about, and those who care about us. It may also include a sense of meaningful connection to nature, culture, and the wider world. Your heart is engaged.

It's interesting that in French, the root of the word for courage is "heart." To deal with things, we need to tap into our hearts and be strong-hearted. In our evolutionary history as hunter-gatherers who lived in close contact with others, feeling connected and expressing heartfelt emotions were primal signals of safety. They reinforce our sense of being fundamentally okay. So, that would be the second tool.

To conclude, the third tool is quite remarkable in terms of its impact on the brain. It involves taking a wider view, adopting a bird's eye perspective, an objective and impersonal big picture view. It can even mean lifting your gaze to the horizon, embracing the larger space around you, and considering the wider context. When we do this, it immediately brings us into the present moment neurologically and helps relax self-preoccupation. It enables us to see the bigger picture, the vast frame in which many things are actually going okay.

Locally, it may be a complete horror show and a total disaster, but when we lift our gaze or take that bird's eye view, it allows us to appreciate the larger whole, the concept of dependent origination, interdependence, and ‘interbeing,’ as the great Thich Nhat Hanh described it. This perspective provides comfort in the present moment.

So, in summary, mindfulness, heartfelt connection, and a wider view are three scientifically grounded tools that people can employ in the midst of terrible circumstances. These tools can help them cope better and potentially even experience some relief and well-being.

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