The Two Kings of Bagan
The situation in Myanmar has been of great concern due to the violent military coup and collapsed economy. These challenges have had a significant impact on the people of the country, including, as in the story that follows, the nuns who live and practice in Bagan. The following report, prepared by our local team leader, aims to provide an overview of the hardships that these nuns are facing as a result of the current situation in Myanmar, and to highlight the resilience and dedication that they have shown in the face of these challenges. It is our hope that his words will bring attention to the situation in Myanmar and the needs of the nuns in Bagan specifically, and that it will encourage others to support them.
We believe that it is more important than ever to support the work of these nuns, and many others who are suffering under the tyranny of the military regime. These dedicated individuals are facing many challenges, but they remain committed to providing whatever support they can to their local communities. If you are able to make a donation, it would be greatly appreciated. Your contribution will help them to continue their efforts to bring hope and healing to those in need, and to make a positive difference in their community. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in the lives of these dedicated individuals and the people they serve. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support.
I am very happy to have led a donation event to the nuns in Bagan, a sacred place for us Burmese Buddhists. We were particularly pleased to do so at the Shwezigon Pagoda, which was built by the noble kings Anawratha and Kyan Sit. It is worth remembering something about their history. These two kings both made a commitment to provide food and clothing to the people with one hand, and to wipe the tears of those suffering from war with the other. I hope that you, and all donors, will achieve ultimate happiness and be liberated from all suffering.
As many of you likely already know, the military coup that took place in February 2021 in our country has led to widespread protests and a violent crackdown by the military, which has caused many deaths and injuries. The situation has also disrupted the economy and led to shortages of food, fuel, and other basic necessities.
For the nuns in Bagan, these challenges have made it difficult for them to continue their work and to provide for themselves. Many of them rely on donations from others in order to survive, and the economic downturn has made it harder for them to get the support they need. In addition, the violence and instability caused by the military coup has made it challenging for these nuns to go about their daily lives, as well as to just generally feel safe even in their own communities. Many of the nuns we have supported were in fact displaced by violent assaults led by our country’s military.
Despite these hardships, the nuns I met in Bagan remain dedicated to their work and to helping those in need. They continue to offer spiritual guidance and support of various kinds to their local communities, and they remain an important part of our society.
