A Christmas Wish in Myanmar

For those of us who celebrate, whether we are religious or make it into a time for culture and family, the Christmas holiday is a special time of the year. Warm childhood memories easily flood in of presents slowly building up under a tree, a prayer for snow flurries to come down on the appointed day, a break from work and a reflection for the new year, and an anticipation of the warm embrace of family and friends. As we all know, Christmas is also a time of generosity and giving. We often direct our good thoughts to our family at first, and then think of friends, neighbors, co-workers, and even strangers with Secret Santa events.

For those in any way following the situation in Myanmar, we know in our hearts how much suffering and carnage they have had to endure, and how many dark days they still have ahead of them. Karen villagers, many of whom are Christian, are unable to enjoy any semblance of holiday, as countless Karen villages are currently being strafed with aerial bombings as we speak, and as the image below depicts. And then in Karenni state, an ethnic area that is also Christian, reports have just come in of 30 women and children who were burned alive. We don’t wish to remind of this disheartening news at a time that many are enjoying their warmest days of the year with family and friends to bring about a sad reflection, but rather to encourage to spread one’s positive wishes, good cheer, and boundless generosity to a people who can certainly use it now. Good thoughts, prayers, and metta are always needed and can never be in too much supply.

And for those who might consider giving financially to alleviate the suffering that so many Burmese are now undergoing, this will be perhaps the best gift available for the Golden Land during this hour of need.

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