The Enigma of Love

LEGEND.

------------

1. The Game Commences

2. Love Is

3. An Island Never Cries

4. To Be Or Not To Be, That Is The Question

5. Epilogue

1. The Game Commences :

“ The shipping business is similar to any other businesses and are affected by the forces of supply and demand. Here, one thing we can safely say is, its forces are ‘derived’ rather than ‘direct’ for goods and services. For your guidance the number one commodity traded globally today is crude oil, and thus the demand for moving that product is also created in conjunction. With the abolition of single hull tankers in 2015 according to UNCTAD code, demand for double hull tankers will be increasingly sought after, to be sure. In the short term, chartering would be the answer to satisfy that demand. This is where I come in. I will be lecturing you all on the understanding of chartering and its terms. ”  This was part of a lecture by U Hla Myo (Mr. Beautiful Tribe), voicing during an early morning lecture in one of the classroom of Institute of Economics to post-graduate students reading Diploma in Shipping. 

To U Hla Myo, lovingly known as ‘Myo Gyi’ by his associates and students, nicknamed after a well-known Myanmar rock singer, this was just an ordinary lecture, which he dishes out after a long career in Shipping. Now well retired after reaching the designated age, wishing to pass on his wealth of knowledge secured from four decades, to the next generation willing to listen and carry on the torch. Most of his students are matured and conducting some sort of international businesses and wanted to understand the chain of events till reaching the customers.

U Hla Myo lectures were only conducted during weekday mornings for three hours commencing at seven thirty. Two classes of one and half hours each does drain his energy but enjoys passing on his vast knowledge. The course was for one and half years, and he being part of a dedicated teaching team coaxing the matured students, towards a better understanding and grasp of the subject.

Nowadays he would spend his spare time reading at the university well stocked library, and making short notes and also surfing the Internet at home when the system was up and running. This was his passion next to cars that he also loves. He’s got one grown up son, well educated abroad in the theme of Electrical Engineering with a Master’s Degree from the respected University of Singapore. At home, his loving and caring partner of a wife Mary, for more than forty years slaves to upkeep his castle, maintaining all administration matters and also looks after his health in his golden years. She’s fighting fit, eating the right food, a devout Buddhist with regular bouts of meditation and brisk walking to the market every morning. She declares that it’s a good workout while also satisfying the cooking needs. What’s there for complaint he thought?

These days, ‘Myo Gyi’ and his wife looks forward to their regular visits to be united again with their son in Singapore, while Mary does a spot of shopping there, needy or otherwise, but always making a case that her actions were a real necessity. As long as she was happy, peace do prevails. U Hla Myo and his son have to eat whatever she markets to prove correct her case. Never ending shopping sprees or window-shopping was her passion. A good buy and a case of sound economics was to be sure her reasons. Rightly or wrongly those were her thoughts and as U Hla Myo mother use to say ‘King can do wrong’, thus useless to make a case due defending becomes a chore and a lost action. Mary enjoys a good dialogue, while her husband and son found it rather taxing. She does not realize that winning a round was not a gospel truth, view both of them let have her way for a peace of mind and non-stop nagging. Such were their compromises, however they do love her dearly. This was the price for securing some peace and quiet around the house.

The only cases in question U Hla Myo tries to prove was in the lecture hall where the only subject was Shipping Economics. He would join in with his students during tea breaks to make them more comfortable and gauge their intake of the lectures. The atmosphere was more casual and the discussions during the fifteen minutes interludes were passionate and fiery and he wished they would voice out the same in the class.  This year it was his turn to lecture on Shipping Contracts, Chartering Terms and meaning of assorted clauses plus many standard Charter Parties, this being one of the disciplines of Shipping. It was easier for him as Chartering Terms and Clauses has not changed much since the fifties till date. Most were variation of the theme, which means little to update his lecture notes. Today, there are few instances of chartering in and mostly conducted by the National Line. Again, chartering out was also non-existent, as Myanmar does not have sufficient tonnages to get involved in such exercises. It is more prevalent in London, Europe, Singapore and Japan, thus a challenge to make the students appreciates what they have not experienced.

The student ages during this intake varies from above thirties to fifties. A wealth of experiences there, majority were males and a few of the opposite sex, however each intake differs and vibrant are the discussions with different views depending on which industry they came from and the academic qualifications they secured in life. The course classes were around fifty to seventy each, then dwindles down to around thirty per class, only the hard core remained as their businesses and firms demanded competence, for their increase in salaries and/or their status calls for it. Whatever, it was interesting for U Hla Myo. Even though he lectures, he also learns something new at every intake. It reminded of his student sojourns while in London. There were lawyers, bank managers, traders, brokers, from the insurance companies and some from the fields of oil and gas and a few pure students. Greeks, Germans, Italians, Cypriots, Indians, Chinese and roughly only half were British, trying to better themselves in their crests of advancing their careers. U Hla Myo was the only Burmese then.  Looking back those were fun times. 

Even though lecturing was only three hours, he would spend time after classes with his fellow Lecturers discussing on statistics and the latest developments in Shipping. Most of the Lecturers were Academics or Lawyers by education, and he was the only one from the Shipping Industry. At least age wise they were roughly the same, all over fifty and pushing on to sixties. The young ones, twenty plusses were not really interested in the subject, due the Shipping Industry was quite small in Yangon. Their appreciation and love for the subject was somewhat sparingly to say the least. After all, the bulk of the money was elsewhere and most chases for that rainbow, understandably. In Myanmar most wishes to sail the seven seas as deck officers and engineers or ship’s crew and to the best of U Hla Myo knowledge, no greenhorns likes to enter the commercial side on account the money was not there. This to his mind creates a vacuum and he still loves to pass his knowledge, especially to Myanma Five Star Line, the National Line view commercial know how would still be an added asset there. This was his first line of work, being also his true mentor establishment. But regretfully, economic and commercial values are at times superseded or compromised by political or social considerations. No one dare points out for fear of rocking their chairs, quite rightly too, he was one of them. You see, no guts!  

2. Love Is :

In another part of Yangon’s suburbia in the district of Insein, there works a beautiful maiden under the name of Naw Phyu Phyu Kyaw (Miss Renowned Fair Beauty), age twenty eight, university educated, a fair slim Christian girl, blessed with beauty coupled with an articulate voice, which can be overbearing at times, practices her work as a clerical staff for the Myanmar Post and Telecoms (MPT).  ‘Naw’ in front of female name signifies that she is of Karen stock, which makes 7% of our Union. She left her family in Pa-an, a town in southern part of Myanmar, now living with her three girlfriends, earning money to be one of the three breadwinners for her family. About five foot six, well proportioned by Mother Nature was well desired by all. However, ‘Phyu Phyu’ as she was known, was somewhat choosey. Trying to measure whether the suitor meets her stringent requirements, thus remaining still unwed. One day she met a man at the Insein MPT struggling to open an account for his mobile telephone, facing trouble at the counters and was his fourth time around being turned down there due to incomplete papers, so he declares.

Ko Saw Dylan sat by the benches, fully drained of energy and at a total loss, sweating under the mid-day humid heat was thinking seriously of employing a broker, to speed up the process to secure his Subscriber Identification Module Card, (SIM Card). Phyu Phyu saw the man with sagging shoulders gazing onto the single ceiling fan, on return from washing her lunch box before making her way inside. The sight took pity on him and enquired, “ Any problems? It’s not that hard satisfying the requirements, don’t look so down. ”

Ko Saw Dylan replied, “ Judging from your uniform, you work for MPT. Yes? This is my forth trip here and being turned down at the counter every time. I know no more what they require, the sign says able process by oneself, but it seems brokers are having the upper hand. ”

Here ‘Ko’ means male gender of respectful age in Burmese and ‘Saw’ denotes that he is from a Karen stock.

Phyu Phyu said, “ Show me your papers.”

Securitizing his papers, she soon realized that photocopy of his rightful ownership was missing, so also was copy of his Identity Card (IC). From the papers at hand she deducted that he was thirty two years of age, a company director and lives in Mayangone area of Yangon. Other requirements were in order. From his name she also noticed that he was a Karen. Fair looking chap and did not have the rough edges and sounds to be fairy well educated from his conversation. Smartly dressed, handsome, soft-spoken and pleasant all round she thought.

After a few minutes Phyu Phyu commented, “ Your papers are in order except photocopies of your ownership and IC are missing. You can get those done across the street, cheap and fast at that. Remember that the counter people are faced all day long with never ending queues and does not have the luxury of time to explain to each customer, after all, it’s all clearly posted. In future please read the instructions carefully on the notice board. Get those done, I’ll wait here and hand them back to me. You just sit here and I will see to it. It should only take a few moments. ”

Ko Saw Dylan promptly ran across the street and returned after a couple of minutes. Sweating profusely, he handed her the case file, full of papers and said, “ Thank you. ”

A few minutes went by and he thanked his lucky stars for this kind gesture from her. It was not that he could afford services of a broker, but rather to prove to a point that it could be done by the lawful owner as the encouraging signboard says.  If she had not shown up, he was seriously thinking of employing a broker at any cost. He said to himself thank God there are saviors and no more hear say anymore, as he actually experienced it himself.  He asked himself in his mind why was everything was so difficult when dealing with authorities? This cannot be no more, should Myanmar wants to compete in the region he wanted to yell. Then he saw her approaching towards him with only a few sheets of paper in her hand.

Phyu Phyu said, “ Here you are, your SIM Card and your receipt. Your mobile telephone should be working in 24 hours. ”

Ko Saw Dylan much relieved, smiled with gratitude and said, “ Thank you very much, may I be permitted to buy you a meal at your convenience? ”

She replied, “ Not necessary, I do not want you to have a wrong impression of us. Just doing my job, enjoy your mobile phone. ”

Ko Saw Dylan commented, “ All the same, thank you again and may I know your name? ”

“ It’s Naw Phyu Phyu Kyaw, my friends calls me just Phyu Phyu. ”

“ Well Phyu Phyu, nice to make your acquaintance and my impression of MPT is now not as bad as before. Oh, I take it you are also a Pwa Ka Nyaw (of the same  Sagaw Karen stock), Yes? Thank you again. ”

“ I am not a Sagaw Karen, but a Pwo Karen, however still of Karen stock though. All at MPT are decent working folks, doing thankless jobs that others may benefit. ”

All the same, whatever, Ko Saw Dylan shook her soft hand as a gesture of gratitude and left Insein MPT, a satisfied man at last. He drove back to their company ‘Agri-goods Pvt. Company Limited’, which deals mainly in export of beans, pulses and sesame seeds to India and Japan mostly. In actual fact, the company is a partnership with his best buddy since school days, Ko Khine Win (Mr. Shining Strong). While he takes care of buying the agricultural products for export from middlemen, Brokerage firms, and warehouse owners, his friend was in-charge of all things export documentation and combing contracts. They do secure import permits after exports, which they sell back at a healthy hefty profit and no shortage of takers at that. Their company is situated at down town, no.47 (3^rd Floor) Bo Aung Kyaw Street with twelve personnel and has been in business for more than eight years. He’s happy with his now personal private mobile telephone, which he keeps totally separate from business. Being one of the eligible bachelors in town, which does make heads turn wherever he ventures into, with prospective in-laws licking their lips to win over such a prize. He’s one of those men, a girl would like to call as their husband due he fits most of their bills. His availability status also helps in his business, but he only treats them with humor, being a happy go lucky guy and his only goal was always to be showered with money for the rest of his life with no worries. However he was not hundred percent content as something was bugging at the back of his mind which he could not pin point. He believe that a wife will come his way if it was so fated, otherwise he was happy to prod along as a single man with his loving parents for the rest of his life.

One day while he was negotiating to purchase 36 tons of pulses for export to New Delhi buyers, through the Port of Nava Shiva from a well-respected Brokerage firm on Sule Road, it hits him that he wishes to see Phyu Phyu again. A beautiful dame with black long hair, a Karen too, but not too young, he wondered why his attention was to her. After all, she was just another working girl, dishy though, with charming features and a magnetic voice plus a cool and attractive smile. This was the culprit, which was bugging him since he last saw her about two months back. He told himself that it should not be as there were many fishes, younger and well to do, waiting to be cast. However, he found himself one rainy late afternoon marooned inside his car, waiting to catch sight of her outside Insein MPT that resulted negatively, and that was his third day. Maybe she does not work there anymore, and it seemed stupid to be waiting for someone whom he just spoke for a few moments, who showed no interest in him. Next afternoon he found himself anchored outside Insein MPT again waiting to catch a glimpse of her. But then, eureka at last, she was shielding from the rain under her automatic Beige umbrella, walking swiftly towards her waiting staff ferry parked outside the Insein MPT behind him.

He got out quickly from the shelter of his car without an umbrella and posed a question to her, “ Hello Phyu Phyu, terrible wet day, may I have the honor of driving you back home, and on the way may be stop at a place to your liking for a bite and something warm to drink. Scouts honor, no funny business, a promise at that. For what’s it worth, this is my forth day here. ”

“ Ko Saw Dylan, a surprise to be sure. Yes, I’ve been away for a week, visiting my father’s birthday at Pa-an and to catch up with the family. For your efforts, I suppose you may drive me back, do share my umbrella, you are getting wet.”

“ You seem to remember my name, that’s a good start. Where to Phyu Phyu? Do enlighten me your favorite food joint and preference to meat and abstinent, if any? ”

“ Dylan being an usual choice and as such your name stuck in my mind. I stay in East Yankin housing complexes and as to meat I consume everything eatable, and do not have any favorite food outlets view I rarely dine out. You don’t have to on my account, and really not necessary. ”

“ I want to really, and not patronizing or paying you back for your kindness a few months ago. For your information I don’t know why my parents choose Dylan as my Christian name and never did asked. Since you don’t have a particular choice, may I take you to ‘La Opera’, they serve good authentic Italian cuisine, hope it’s alright and not too far from East Yankin too. ”

“ I’ve never eaten Italian food, suppose always a first, so you do the ordering and I’ll just follow. For you to know Dylan Thomas was a famous Welsh poet and author during your parents’ time and may be they chose your name after him.  ”

Ko Saw Dylan knows a few good restaurants as one of his duties included dining with clients, but this was out of his own pocket. This restaurant was the first that came into his mind, quiet, serene and not crowded. He still do not know what compels him to pursue Phyu Phyu, good looking and beautiful maybe, but there were a lot of younger and more beautiful girls with fat bank accounts from well to do families, dying to pass on their wealth to him. He was sure she was none of those. He drove the car slowly in the pouring rain, concentrating on the road ahead and soon he was dry from the car’s air conditioning. He kept to the small lanes to escape the late afternoon traffic, no more words passed between them. On reaching ‘La Opera’, Phyu Phyu passed a comment.

“ It looks like an old house, are you sure this is a restaurant? Seems too quiet for an eatery place. Besides, not on the main road either, wonder how can they can survive and make money. ”

“ Well Phyu Phyu, you may get out now, no need for your umbrella as only about twelve steps into La Opera. Besides, should the rain be heavy, the doorman would meet you with his umbrella. ”

Phyu Phyu was awed by the ambiance of the restaurant inside. Never judge a book by its cover seems to apply here. She has never been to such a posh restaurant, which took her breadth away to say the least. As they were non-smokers, the young attractive waitress guided them to a small table by the miniature green palms and poured iced water with a dash of lime into their crystal clear goblets. It was truly an experience for her. She was then passed a leather bound menu together with a wine list. Phyu Phyu also found the soft guitar music being strummed by a man in the hallway soothing too, not that she recognized the music.

When the waitress walked away, wide eyes Phyu Phyu commented, “ Wow! What a place, beautiful, nice and cozy to be sure, cool and dry too. Please do the necessary ordering I don’t understand the menu a single bit. ”

“ Will you join me to a glass of wine? ” Ko Saw Dylan enquired appreciating the atmosphere.

“ Only a few drops please, I have yet to sample and taste. Besides, I don’t want to be drunk. ”

When the waitress came back to take the orders in her cream silk blouse and black long skirt, she commented with a smile, “ Welcome back Sir. ”

Ko Saw Dylan smiled back in return and announced, “ Two Spaghetti Bolognese, beef is fine by us and two glasses of Red House Wine, thank you. ”

Phyu Phyu enquired, “ She seems to know you. What did you order? ”

“ To cut a long story short, Semolina noodles with beef tomatoes sauce and two glasses of Red Wine. Should you not like it, you may leave it. ”

“ This will be my first taste and let’s see the outcome. Meantime, although I don’t understand the menu I do have a feeling that it must be expensive. ”

Ko Saw Dylan just pressed a smile in return.

He knows a diamond in the rough when he sees one, after doing business for a few years, these things come naturally to him, correct and precise judgments were one of his talents. In Phyu Phyu, he deducted that after a few short conversations that she was honest in her views with no airs of pretence, or does she portray what she was not. Thus the reason for his attraction to her, a rare gem in this day and age, where wearing a hat of chameleon was a way of life. Furthermore, judging from her left hand first finger, she was still single. Looking at her features, she must be in her late twenties or early thirties, which told him she also have been a stringent profiler, otherwise she would have been married earlier on with her stunning dimensions. No doubt about it, she was last of the Mohicans.

When the food came, she was indifferent to the taste. The Red Wine, she did have a few mouthfuls but she said it was not for her. For deserts, she chose a chocolate cream double layer cake and coffee with milk, which he joined in. This she enjoyed and cleaned her desert plate.

“ I think you enjoyed the chocolate cream cake more than the main course of Spaghetti Bolognese, which I agree is somewhat different to the normal Chinese cuisine flavor. ”

“ Being a Karen Christian woman, to be honest, the Italian food must be a sort of an acquired taste. For the money, I would have gone for a Chinese meal, cheaper and tastes super. The cake was good. Coffee? Maybe a bit too strong and bitter for my taste. No offence intended, are you a Christian too?  ”

“ No, I am a Buddhist by birth and still living with my parents, being single which allows me to be free of household chores, cleaning, washing, ironing and those kind of mundane monotonous things. A big grown up baby, too lazy to do it myself, hope being of different religion not a problem with you, as I am not.  By the way, no offence taken and thank you for being honest, a rare thing these days. ”

“ No problem, I’m not too religious either, just a born Christian and do regret not that westernized or modern, being a country Karen girl at heart.  Shall we make a move? My girlfriends may start to worry soon. ”

Ko Saw Dylan settled the bill and made their way to East Yankin, smiling and feeling pleased with himself for finding Phyu Phyu, four days was a mean feat in his books. She guided and navigated the drive to her building no. 214, right entrance.

“ I live on the first floor, apartment no.3 with my three other girlfriends, cheaper that way and split the utility bills squarely. Two girls to a bedroom with common sitting room and cook separately. We rarely have male guests unless family, so I will not ask you up, hope you do not mind. ” 

“ No problem, I enjoyed the outing, hope you did also. Much regret for the spaghetti, as La Opera was the first restaurant that came into my head. May I see you again?  ”

“ It was an experience to be sure. Thank you for taking me to a posh restaurant. Give me a call, my mobile is 9127 2218 and we shall see. ”

“ I’ll do that, thank you for your company which was most enjoyable. Sorry for keeping your girlfriends worry for you unnecessarily. ”

They bided their goodbyes and Phyu Phyu stepped out of the car and made for her apartment. Thank God the rain gave a slight reprieve. Ko Saw Dylan was a happy man and drove with full contentment back to Mayangone, to his parents house. He has never felt like this, and he was not new to dates either. Many a girl he has dated and conquered, but this was something else to him. After parking his car in the garage, he walked into the house with a beaming grin.

His mother and father from the settee were watching television and she questioned, “ Why the grin on your face? Strange I must admit, won the lottery? ”

“ Must be the satisfying day. By the way Mother, why was I christened Dylan? ”

“ Those days your father and I read poetry and we enjoyed ‘Do not go gentle into the good night’ so very much, that we named you Dylan  after the poet and the name was more unique compared to John, Simon and Peter etc.  Why ask now? ”

“ Oh! Nothing, just wanted to know. Good night Mother, Father. ” 

So disappearing into his room. He took a long hot shower and feeling satisfied, dried and steped into his pajamas and slowly sank his bottom onto his easy chair in front of his laptop on the study table, which has been his contemplating center as long as he could remember. After surfing the Internet, checked his mail and Facebook, his stare settled on his mobile telephone.  After much deliberation   with himself and hearing the news from the television below, must be past nine thus he pressed the keys 9127 2218 on his mobile.

A sweet voice answered, “ Hello? ”

He replied, “ This is Saw Dylan, just checking whether everything is alright with you? ”

“ Why should it not be? Got home and one of my girlfriends had moakhingar for dinner bought from the top of the road which they shared with me, thus my stomach is also full. ”

“ By the way, the number you see on your screen is mine, 9281 3116 which is open to you 24/7 and you were right about my name, my parents named me as they enjoyed the poetry by Dylan Thomas. How did you know?  ”

“ An educated guess. I may be a country girl, but I do read you know. May not too versed in the finer things in life, however literacy wise, I do read some works in English and Burmese that I like. ”

He enjoyed her cool assuring voice, with no pretence and it was confirmed what was troubling him all this while. He would like to see her again and she seemed to be on the same frequency with him, a rare gem and Phyu Phyu was the missing link in his life.

Ko Saw Dylan bumbled out, “ May I see you again? I would like to pick you up after work this Friday? ”

“ No you may not, as I do not want the office talking behind my back. However, do give me tinkle Saturday morning and check whether I am free or otherwise. ”

“ I’ll do that and have a good night rest for tomorrow. ”

“ Bye, Ko Saw Dylan and thank you for your call. ”

Phyu Phyu cut off the line but he was overjoyed, and like a little boy who could not stop smiling from side to side. He looked forward to his call on Saturday morning. After an hour or so going through the office papers, he called it a day and had an early night. At work, he continue to buy beans and pulses plus sesame seeds and sold it to Indian and Japanese Buying Houses in Yangon, when in season. He does make a few trips to Singapore, New Delhi and Tokyo and visited the end Buying Houses there, who were their clients, as Ko Khine Win wishes to be in the background view winning confidence over dialogs were not his strongest points. When Saturday came, he was shaking with nervousness and anticipation, still he called Phyu Phyu all the same. She informed him that due to her outstanding laundry woes, can be only available by 1800 hours. Whatever, he accepted it and would take her to a Chinese Restaurant in Mayangone, near the new cinema. The food there was accepted to be above par, complimented by many authentic Si Chuan cuisine supporters.

Ko Saw Dylan took her there and let Phyu Phyu do the honor of ordering from the variety of well-presented menu. The atmosphere was not too crowded and was able to conduct a private conversation and also dine in peace. 

“ I don’t know anything about you and yet I am going out with you, not too correct in my books. I think it’s high time you enlighten me about yourself so that I can make some kind of assessment and right my questionnaire. Forgive me for being blunt.  ”

She can come down like a ton of bricks and straight as an arrow, but it’s all for the best he thought. Better than playing a waiting game, beating around the bush. One will knows where one stands and not waste time.

“ Well I am a Buddhist Karen, age thirty two, single, with Bachelor of Science, BSc Degree, working in our own private company owned by me and my best friend Ko Khine Win. Our company is by the name of Agri-goods Pvt. Company Limited, situated on Bo Aung Kyaw Street and we exports beans, pulses and sesame seeds to India and Japan mostly, and been in business close to eight years. Being the only son, live with my retired parents in a house, situated in Mayangone, Yangon.

An eligible bachelor in town with all the right qualifications one might say. How am I doing? ”

“ Rather well actually. As far as I am concerned, should you be not wanted by the law, a drunkard or a drug addict, responsible with a stable job, of good family, are that matters of my yardstick, others not too worried or has any weight or bearing and of no interest to me. For your information, even though Dylan Thomas was a renowned poet and author, he was known to be drunk and a rebel rouser. ”

“ Please rest assured that I am not a drunkard or drug addict, does not even smoke for that matter. Names may be similar, but characters totally different. Just a simple Working Man in our mad world, trying to earn money in an honest way. ”

“ I see, thus you are not doing financially too bad either, born and bred in Yangon? ” 

Ko Saw Dylan answered, “ No, not always. According to father, they were from a small town of Myawaddy, a family of businessmen and landowners. Their small border town is in Karen State, southeast of Myanmar with Moei River demarcating our Myanmar side with Mae Sot Town in Thailand. Apparently my grandfather owned quite a bit of land with paddy fields and after numerous fire fights between Karen National Union Army (KNU) and the Burmese Army, which claimed quite a few lives both from my father and mother side, they sold everything and immigrated to Yangon when I was a little boy. Understand only very distant relatives are still remaining in Myawaddy today. My father purchased a plot of land in Mayangone Township with all the money they had and constructed a brick-knocking building, which we are still living in since then and educated me. Thus here I am. ”

Phyu Phyu commented, “ What a sad story and your parents lovingly brought you up in Yangon. It’s only fair that I lay down my life history too. I have a younger brother, married with two girls, working in the Myanmar Customs and now stationed in Taunggyi and another youngest sister, also single, age must be twenty four now, a middle school teacher, living together with my parents in Pa-an town. We all chip in monthly for the up keep of my parents. They no more conduct in any businesses but do undertake some church activities, when called upon. After passing out from Mawlamyine College with a Bachelor of Arts, BA Degree in History, I joined the MPT there. Insein is my forth posting and second in Yangon. I still pay a yearly visit to Pa-an when they can spare me leave. ”

The conversation was good and the meal was excellent. Phyu Phyu and Ko Saw Dylan enjoyed the presentations, and all the plates were thoroughly cleared with their hearty appetite. He sent her back around ten after spending some time over the Pazundaung Creek road bridge, taking in the cool breeze of the rainy season. They spent most weekends exploring sites around Yangon and also took a ride on the small boats known as ‘nhet’ or ‘bird’ if translated directly into English on the Yangon River. There, he held her hands to steady her and did not let go ever since. He would also steal a kiss or two under the cover of the nights and should they be sheltered from prying eyes too. To break the monotony, he also introduced her to his parents. Phyu Phyu was the only girl he took home to meet his mother and father. A few Sundays, she insisted to see his parents and she would offer fruits or literatures to their liking. She even bought Buddhist religious books recommended by her office. She never called on his parents without a token of gift. His parents and Phyu Phyu were like hands in gloves from their first meeting. Some Sundays were movie days watching a Burmese picture on Digital Video Discs (DVD), which she bought, together with his parents, eating fermented tea leaves salad with assorted condiments, a Burmese delicacy accompanied by pots of green tea. On those days he was the odd man out and would attend to his emails and paperwork and took her home to East Yankin afterwards.

A week before Christmas, Ko Saw Dylan asked, “ My parents requested you to join our annual Christmas dinner at home. Please say yes? ”

“  You all are Buddhist, I don’t understand? Why celebrate Christmas?  ”

“ We have done that for donkey years. I suppose this tradition was brought back since the old days at Myawaddy. Will you please join us? It will make all of us very happy. ”

“ If you put it that way, alright then. I shall be most honored to join in. ”

That year, Christmas day was a Wednesday. Ko Saw Dylan picked her up around 6 p.m. and drove to his house. Phyu Phyu gave a longyi to father, two Thanakha barks for mother and a small diary for him as a token of Christmas gifts. It was kisses on the cheeks all around and dinner was surely memorable. Tar-la-baw hin-cho (traditional Karen soup), three layered belly pork dish, roast chicken drumsticks, fried leafy vegetables with small prawns, a Burmese style fish balls salad, balachaung (fried pounded dry prawns with fish paste, chills and other condiments) and also Burmese style mango pickle. Rice was as usual, steamed.  The dining table was full and hardly any space left for the plates. He was surprised as his mother prepared the feast, like no other, fit for a king.

After the sumptuous dinner, desert was assorted fresh fruits, including sanomakin (sweet Burmese cake baked with coconut cream and sesame seeds plus sago). Stomachs full, his father and himself sank into the sitting-room settee trying to focus their eyes on the television screen. Phyu Phyu did the washing up and helped mother stock away the leftovers into plastic containers and be chilled in the freezer. She also cleaned and dried the plates, washed the pots and pans, stacked them back in their rightful place. The washing up and cleaning took twice as long to the sumptuous dinner. After sometime, they all joined sitting down in front of the television, waiting for the daily dose of Korean soap oprea.

After a while, mother got up and brought back a small velvet case from her bedroom and handed to Phyu Phyu.

“ This is from all of us for you. Merry Christmas and hope you like it. ”

Phyu Phyu opened the velvet case and found it to contain a diamond necklace, a solitaire diamond pendent on a thin white gold chain. Her face sparkled and tears of joy from her eyes rolled down her beautiful face saying, “ Thank you, but no thank you. This is too much and expensive and I could not possibly accept this Christmas gift. Knowing all of you is gift enough. ”

Mother commented, “ You have brightened our family and please wear this necklace as a symbol of all our love to you. Let us be close to your heart, for always. ”

Ko Saw Dylan was surprised with the generosity of his mother. She had never given him such expensive gift in his life. What she said was true though. After much persuasion from the whole family, Phyu Phyu accepted her Christmas gift. Later he found out that the diamond came from part of her five pieces diamond blouse buttons set handed down through the generations from his mother side. The diamond pendent was made at a Chinatown goldsmith with the concurrence of his father, while he was not part of the consultation. Whatever, he was happy for all. After the sumptuous dinner, he drove her home. On the drive back home, he said to himself what an enjoyable dinner in the cool of the evening, with Phyu Phyu and his parents by his side. A remarkable way to celebrate Christmas to be sure, funny he and his family were not even Christians.

Now that Phyu Phyu accepted him as her boyfriend, his work was more fruitful in his purchases and businesses were done with a smile, a contented man. All concerned at the office were also happy with their work, a good bunch. Ko Saw Dylan continued to see Phyu Phyu both on Saturdays and Sundays and telephoned her daily each evening. Things continued positively and by July he was posed a question by her.

“ I would like you to join me for my annual trip to Pa-an for nine days to celebrate my father’s birthday and be with my family and return to my roots. I intend to leave by coach next Friday evening and return the week after on Sunday, for arrival here in the evening. Pa-an town is pretty small and the stay will be rather basic. Willing to take a chance? ”

“ Why not. I need a break and also give me a chance meeting your parents and also your little sister. Okay, confirmed and thank you for asking. ”

That settled, he ordered a chocolate Birthday cake with the words ‘Happy Birthday’ engraved on top, from Sedona Hotel. Next he bought two U Gyan cotton longies for her father, three yards of the finest white cotton material for her mother and a school green htamein for her youngest sister. He also bought the coach tickets. On that Friday, with a small overnight bag plus a plastic carrier bag of Birthday Cake took the evening coach from Yangon to Pa-an. Their seats were on the first row opposite the driver, so that they can enjoy the extra legroom. They left at ten in the evening, and the ride was around ten hours for arrival at Pa-an at eight the next morning. He held Phyu Phyu hands throughout and stole a kiss or so on her cheek in the darkness of the night, when the coach was not playing a Burmese movie DVD.

At Pa-an town center bus station, met by her father and mother looking forward to their daughter’s return. By their faces, one could tell their true feelings. She introduced them as U Saw Phyu and Daw Kyaw Kyaw, a handsome couple even in their golden years. Now he understood the reason for her name. They took a motorcycle pulled taxi, all four squeezed into the passenger section, thank God it fitted them all. Their home was a wooden structure on the most northern part of town over looking Kan Thar Yar Lake and abundance of paddy fields view from their windows and each house was a sparsely distance apart. After putting down his overnight bag, he handed the Birthday Cake and the presents to her father and mother. They were grateful and overjoyed. Her youngest sister Naw Hla Hla Kyaw (Miss Renowned Beauty) returned in the afternoon after teaching and he handed the green htamein to her. She liked it and thanked him too. They all sat in the front room talking in Karen, Burmese and English now and then. Ko Saw Dylan smiled and enjoyed the dialogue unfolding in front of him. After sometime, lunch was served on the low round wooden table, all sitting on the floor in the traditional way. The food was simple but really delicious and as desert, chocolate Birthday cake was served with hot green tea, not coffee.

Phyu Phyu said, “ The toilet is at the back in the yard and bath can be taken by the well in front. I will sleep with my little sister and you sleep in the front room. Okay? ”

“ No problem. Pa-an is much cooler than Yangon and I did not expect that. I thought it would be as hot as Yangon, if not hotter. If you all don’t mind, I would like to explore by myself your Pa-an town from tomorrow morning. No need worry about breakfast and lunch, I’m a big boy now and can manage.  ”

Phyu Phyu replied, “ Please do that, you cannot get lost here. We have no car, so walking or taking a ride on the motorbike taxi should assist you. The town is not that big and not much to see like some of the Shan State towns. I aim to spend all my time with my family as this is once in a year affair, hope you understand. ”

All laughed and they continued their non-stop dialogue. Ko Saw Dylan enjoyed their talks. He was able to pick up a few words in Karen, otherwise he was totally lost as only Burmese was spoken in his household. Rain pounded non-stop and the sound hitting the galvanized tin roof made him yearn for more sleep. He felt it was rude of him to lie down on the floor, thus sat up and smiled continually not to be rude. Around five the conversation moved to the kitchen while the business of cooking the evening meal was in progress. He took the opportunity to take a bath by the well at the front of the house. He had to fill the small drum with the well water and by God it was cold. It did wake him up and the thought of eight more days ahead and did not know how to fulfill his time. He only joined Phyu Phyu this trip for his love for her and nothing else, thus must bite the bullet and bear.

When the sun was no more and around seven, dinner was served. This he looked forward to, as the simple dishes were so delicious, mostly consisting of vegetables and a large pot of nga-pi-yae (fish paste sauce) in the middle. Soup was pots of green tea and he had to control himself after his second plate of rice. Under the bright florescent tube light, he read the newspaper for the second time again and prayed for bedtime. Around ten, the girls put up the mosquitoes netting and laid a cane mat and a small pillow for him to sleep. Even though no mattress, it was heaven able to lie down, and soon sleep stepped in and nothing else mattered anymore, nor he knows anything.

For the next two days Ko Saw Dylan walked the streets of Pa-an with an umbrella in hand forfeiting home cooked breakfast and lunch, from morning till dusk familiarizing the new scene. All the same, breakfasts and lunches were galore,  coupled with reasonable prices at the market and the choices were second to none. The people here were simple and one could see their real selves, ladies with little or no make-ups and men dressed for their chores. Your smiles were returned with true sincerity unlike Yangon.  The baths at dusks were cold by the well, but he accepted it as a fact of life. Sunday morning saw him tagging along with Phyu Phyu and her family to church even though he was not a Christian. The service was interesting and the devotees were friendly. He took extra care to show respect at all times which U Saw Phyu appreciated. By Monday he was joining in the conversations and dished out his two cents worth when called for. Phyu Phyu was true to her word, spending time only with the father and mother, shunning any extra curriculum activities other than to be with her family. They got to know him and he with them and soon became one of them, undertaking chores he normally does not do at home. He was a brother to Naw Hla Hla Kyaw and would take pains to answer all her questions and even escorting her to school now and then where she teaches. His love for Phyu Phyu grew stronger as he witnessed her undying love for her family and being strong for them like an eldest daughter should. The family’s gestures towards him were true and unselfish also. Willing to forego their usual rituals that he be more comfortable and tries to satisfy his wants within their means. Soon, he did not realize how the days passed and before he knew, it was time to head back to Yangon. This trip was by no means enjoyable from the angle of amenities, but more a self-realization. Phyu Phyu actions towards her family and theirs towards her and him were priceless. Pure self-scarification, unselfishness, tenderness and kindness were all around which he unable capture on his camera and now he knows now how his parents sacrificed for his well being and their unconditional love for him, while he just accepted as a matter of fact and must sure amend his ways when he gets back after witnessing how Phyu Phyu went about with her family. There was much selfishness, non-appreciation and too much taking things for granted on his part, which he would make sure that it was a thing of the past and value his parents more.

The trip back was uneventful but his parents saw and felt the changes in him, much kinder and showed more respect, love and affection towards them. A definite change on his part, his parents could not believe the transformation. By October he secured the blessing from his parents after just a hint and accordingly proposed to Phyu Phyu.

“ Now that I am sure of what I want and being together on the same page, will you marry me? For your information, I already secured the blessing of my parents. I see the goodness in you, which I really appreciate and would like to fend and cherish you till my dying breadth. ”

“ There is nothing more that I want, but to marry you too. After all, you do fit my bill on all counts, but I think you should approach my parents, they did made me and do have a major say in this. ”

“ That’s a fair comment, all shall be taken care of My Princess. ”

By early November, his parents and Ko Saw Dylan took a ten hours coach ride to Pa-an, but lodged in a guest house, not to trouble Phyu Phyu’s parents. Official request of her hand in marriage was carried out to her parents one evening, which they accepted should she be in the same frame of mind. They wished for a church wedding in Pa-an and thus so decided to have it on the auspicious Christmas day. They stayed a total of two days there and as agreed, he and his parents together with Phyu Phyu proceeded down to Pa-an two days before Christmas for necessary preparations. He wore a Blue Black light suit and she donned on her mother’s white wedding dress and vows were exchanged in front of the Priest in their small Pa-an Church with her family’s close relations and friends, total around fifty.

After the weeding U Saw Phyu remarked, “ Now that you are now my son-in-law officially, please call me Dad and my wife as Mom. I would like to address you as Son. Love you we shall for always unconditionally and hope you can return the same. I do mean it from the bottom of my heart and can vouch the same from your Mom. That’s a promise and you can bet your last dollar on this. ”

The statement touched him deeply while his father, mother, wife and sister-in-law watched for his reaction. He was speechless and words somehow became lost.

After composing himself for a few minutes, Ko Saw Dylan replied, “ I now have two fathers and two mothers and you all can be certain that my affection will be the same and shall love Naw Hla Hla Kyaw as my kid sister. ”

With tears welding in the eyes of his now new parents, they hugged him while his new bride held his mother hands. Father was all smiles while his sister-in-law clapped with appreciation and concurrence.

After the wedding they returned to Yangon and Phyu Phyu wished fond farewell to her three friends sharing the East Yankin apartment and moved in with Ko Saw Dylan. To his father and mother, Phyu Phyu was their missing daughter and she treated with undying love to them, same as her parents. They did have a second civil marriage in front of the Mayangone Magistrate with only the very closest few friends in attendance. A grand reception was also held in Trader’s Hotel with over three hundred guests, on New Year’s Day with her family beside her. They all put up in their Mayangone house, with Phyu Phyu parents taking the guest room and she and her sister slept in their room, while Ko Saw Dylan kipping on a mattress in the sitting room floor with his brand new brother-in-law. Ko Saw Phyu Kyaw (Mr. Renowned Sincerity) did attend the reception and left the very next day by plane, back to Taunggyi as it was a special leave, non extendable. He did not have a chance to see his brother-in-law’s family but they intended to go up to Inlay for their week’s honeymoon and hoped to catch up there.  His best friend Ko Khine Win was the best man at all three occasions.

3. An Island Never Cries :

Ko Khine Win was a different kettle of fish. Same age as Ko Saw Dylan with the same kind of academic qualifications, but their similarities ended there. Ten years ago, while his parents drove to Naypyidaw from Yangon, they suffered a crash, their car overturned while cornering and paid with their lives. It was said a full enquiry was conducted, and the only conclusion the authorities made was, they must have been speeding with no fault of the concrete roadway. At their time of death, the weather was clear, daytime with no on coming traffic. Strange he thought???

He was the youngest, out of three sons and his brothers were family men with children, residing in Mandalay and Tavoy, businessmen in the fields of acquisition of estates and oil palms plantations. Since the demise of his parents, he himself became a businessman and set up shop with his long time best friend buying beans, pulses and sesame seeds exporting to countries such as India and Japan. He sold his parents house in Shwegonedine Township, not to reminded of his deceased parents, and the brothers concurred for him to keep all of the sales proceeds as he was an up and coming struggling businessman.  

Ko Khine Win has always been a secluded man, finding solace in his small group of friends spending his spare time reading, playing golf, immersing in the world of automobiles, religion and in philanthropy works especially for down and out orphaned street children. He shuns the high life and keeps away from ladies who yearns and leaches to secure their five ‘Cs’, (car, condominium, cash, credit card and cash).  After some time, trust in the opposite sex became a scarce commodity and neither was he gay. He’s a type of man unwilling to bond new friends for fear of taken advantage of him. He also does not seek temporary affection in the arms of ladies of the night, as buying love was not his scene. Thus not wanting attachments, Ko Khine Win kept a low profile, alone in his small world, his belief being no body gets hurt.

With his proceeds he has built a small bungalow in the posh neighborhood of Than Lwin Road, with only two bedrooms where he occupies one and the other serves as a guest bedroom. His guests were normally his brothers or their families on their various trips to Yangon, otherwise he was happy doing his own things. He has been looked after by a manservant, and a very distant relation serving as a lady cook, plus his trusted three years old German Sheppard dog, completely to the hilt with unparalleled loyalty they all were. They all shared and live in his small compound with a large garage, home to his sixties icon 1965 E type S1 4.2 Jaguar, imported from Thailand, through the border officially even though on trailer, that has still to be on the road worthy condition, a 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser, a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) which he drives on trips to the countryside to buy or view agricultural products or attending to his charity works and also a 2012 Honda Fit, a small dark blue hatchback, powered by 1.5-litre engine that he uses daily to office and drives around Yangon. The small car does not attract attention which he likes, economical to run, and not too interested by the car thieves and can be left by the curbs without being tampered as being quite a cheap common car. The restoration of the E Type Jaguar, an on-going project that requires much work and its spares comes at a steep price. He enjoys working on the old girl and at times assisted by his mechanic friends, knowing full well that his project would take years and more of a hobby and the love for old sport cars, not too suitable for Yangon roads.

On some weekends, he would also walk the hundreds of narrow alleyways in the Bayint Naung car spare parts market, shopping or just sight seeing, enjoying the abeyance, similar to ladies shopping for materials, clothes and slippers. He kept a sharp eye for a good buy. The market was full of Japanese automobile spares, old and new, but he was only interested in old nuts, bolts and copper wirings salvaged from scrapped British bangers, such as Humber, Bedford, Vauxhall and Austin etc. The stall owners were eager to sell away his interests as not much takers and that made him happy. He tries his best to restore his E Type with authentic British parts. Friends visiting his garage commented it looked like a dustbin, which he returns with his smile, as the spares were worth its weight in gold. The price of a restored E Type was in the region of over U$350,000/-, however it was not for sale but for his sheer enjoyment rebuilding it. He knew the leather seats and interior plus the carpets will be a challenge view none were available in Myanmar and must be ordered direct from England. It was still very far off, thus were not stored in his head, not yet anyway.

In the office, he was nicknamed ‘Big Ben’, not for keeping good time, but due to thoroughness and his fine tooth combing of all papers reaching his desk, in short, sure of his work and to be relied upon. He goes through all company purchase and export contracts and well known for striking a fair bargain. He does not believe in securing an upper hand as this would be an one off affair and not too good for the well being of the company. Anything that he was unsure, he would take pains to visit companies and or to persons of knowledge and be a student willing to learn. Not a good communicator, and does not friends easily, which he leaves to his partner Ko Saw Dylan, but a fair gentleman on business ethics that sees him through with customers and suppliers. He was also well known for keeping his word, and at times businesses would be concluded on a handshake without any money actually being changing hands. Win or loose, profited or lost, he was trusted and his word was as good as gold.

He does at times listen to songs and music he that liked on his hi-fi, such as  Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, Simon & Garfunkell and Dire Straits songs before turning in, but should he has the time, he preferred go to orphanages set up for down and out street kids and assist to their health matters, educational schemes, a shelter and meals. During his two weeks vacation period, he would travel to difficult to reach Chin State and set up orphanages catering to all creed and genders, making sure they have a shelter and access to education for their betterment in life. He would also arrange groups of doctors of various disciplines to make trips to those places, paying for their trips, places to stay plus medical stock. Should the burden of expenses be too heavy, he lobbies the companies that he knows, monasteries and institutions with sound finances. He was not shameful to beg or negotiate for their support. He met Dr. Doris Htay, (Dr.Rich) if translated into English directly. She is a practicing pathologist, age thirty four, single, with a academic qualification of post graduate Membership of Royal College Pathologist, M.R.C.Pathology from London, secured in one sitting. Working at the Yangon General Hospital, who actively champion for the betterment of orphans plus down and out children countrywide. Their friendship grew and both geared all their energy and resources they could muster during their free times.

The trials of life troubled him. He sees people struggling to survive, better their existence, tabulations, happiness, sadness, up and downs not barring genders. At times Ko Khine Win did not want to be a part of that and he did not want to trouble anybody and be free of the wheel of Dhamasetkya . He did not want any more feelings of happiness as he knows will turn to sadness at one point, hate turning into love and reversing before the end of its course and keeps on the cycle. Life, death and reberth and be not rinse of the cycle bothered him, thus he turned to religion for his salvation and be free of that. He started to read the teachings of Lord Buddha and became a devotee and disciple to Venerable Ashin Nyanissara and be taught and guided in the true path to Nevanna. The loss of his parents still haunts him and he could not let go the loss, which he knows he must. His best friend Ko Saw Dylan was happy with his wife carrying his baby in her stomach for a few months. He stills join them for a meal now and then and pleased to notice that Phyu Phyu was taking her husband parents as her own. Satisfying to see.

On Saturday mornings if not pouring down with rain, he would have a round of golf with his retiree friends at the Defense Golf Course where there were less crowds and the prices were reasonable. His golfing clan were all ex-military senior officers not interested in making a quick buck but rather enjoy a friendly game and a form of a walking exercise while the loosing team pays for the food consumed that was usually a bowl of noodle each, one or two bottles of beer and some fruit juices. Retired from very responsible posts, most surprised to notice they were humble, courteous and not interested in one’s position in society but just enjoying each other companionship, sharing a few jokes and steered clear of politics. Only then he realized that there were such men and honored to term them as friends.

Most early Sunday mornings were spent climbing the Shwe Dagon Pagoda hill and together with hundreds of girls an boys plus matured men an women, cleaning the Pagoda’s marble floor, throwing away the stale flowers offerings, cleaning the flower pots and chipping away the spent waxes from thousands of candles come rain or shine. Ko Khine Win found the work gratifying, offering their labour of love, free of charge. The organizers do offer some kind of breakfast after their chores. Here, he kept his mouth shut and no one knows what he does for a living, nor was he inquisitive about others. Sometime he would see his friend Dr. Doris Htay and he would acknowledge her with a smile and nodding his head. He’s most at peace when doing something for the masses at the grass roots.

Work wise, not much to trouble him but the sales were down, which was normal during the wet season as no new crops. New crops were still to appear in the market, however he buys from the warehouses direct and conduct a few transactions to keep the company going till season again. While buying prices were high with the rate of exchange for United States Dollars down, selling prices were hard to make a decent profit. He adhered a policy to sell one or two containers to various companies at various destinations, thus profits were not high as can be, but the risks for losses were somewhat limited. He told his friend that better to exist in the long haul, rather than think short term only. Soon the staff accepted his policy realizing that it was safer business wise and also their jobs were safeguarded. His well-repeated lines were ‘do not put all your eggs in one basket’.

Not really forecasted, but disaster did struck on a container of sesame seeds, eighteen tons sold to a Japanese buyers. The unexpected two days strike at the transshipment port of Port Khang affected their normal connections to Yokohama and when the strike was over, the backlog of containers caused monumental problems, that resulted the Buyers not accepting the goods due to its quality being compromised by the delays and not to quality contracted.  While they sold the sesame seeds on Free Onboard (FOB) terms, the shipment was reshipped back to source, Yangon, due to quality control and quarantine regulations at destination. They had a hard time to dispose as animal feed and suffered a loss. Many export companies were hit hard where their shipment sizes were substantial, some even had to close shop unable to compensate the losses, thus holding true his comments. This did not deter Ko Saw Dylan, who took it as an accepted peril of doing business.  Even though it was no fault of the shipping line concerned, Ko Khine Win wanted to learn more on the intricacies of shipping business as it was related to their work and enrolled in the post graduate course of Shipping Diploma conducted by the Institute of Economics.  He was that type of a man, interested to learn anything connected with their discipline. The course hours were in the mornings and did not affect his work at the company, except he shall have to be risen more earlier in the mornings. One more new interest to keep him occupied for another year and a half and looked forward to the new course. He understands that there would be around eighty matured students and there were eight to ten lecturers including the Head of Department. Courses would begin in October and the fees were minimal and did not dent his pocket. He also contacted his friend Dr. Doris Htay, who was interested to learn something quite different from her field and enrolled too. He now has someone he knows to talk and discuss.

4. To be or not to be, that is the question :

Charity works were their passion, and Ko Khine Win talked the same language as Dr. Doris Htay, better known plainly as Doris by everybody. A great looking woman, single, still got what it takes, but laid all her eggs to doing charity at grass-root level for the down and out, and also help out at AIDS clinics when help was called upon. Being single was out of necessity, as she would point out ‘still not yet found a man who is man enough’. She does not mean muscles by any means, but a man who would be kind, gentle, understanding, witty, funny, well educated, on the same wavelength with her, matured, be her knight in shining amour in times of adverse weather and would cherish her. The list being a tall order and quite comprehensive, meeting such a suitor was truly a challenge and winning the lottery would have been much easier. She comes from a well to do Shan family whose coffers were quite well filled for generations. She’s got three other family members, two boys and a girl, all doing rather well and second in line. The family are landowners in the Shan State with paddy fields and growing seasonal crops but does not get their fingers dirty, in short can be termed as money investors, just continuing what comes naturally for generations. Since young, Doris was a studious girl who went on to medical school in Mandalay and later practiced in Yangon, and was selected to do further studies in London and secured her M.R.C. Pathology in one go, within two years. That did took a toll on her eyes and these days, she dons on glasses, otherwise would be blind as a bat. Now a full fledge pathologist, already served at Mawlamyine and Mandalay hospitals and presently posted to Yangon and resides within the hospital compound quarters with a spinster maid, more of a partner, helper, sister and at times a nurse when she hold her clinic in South Okkalapa. Her weakness if one can call that was a love for clothes in fashion. Money was not at the top of her priorities, however being comfortable is.

Doris enjoys her freedom, away from the family businesses and doing things to her heart’s delight. A free radical one might say. She also dabs in Buddhism and does some meditation at the Venerable Shin Nyanissara’s monetary, just across the road bridge of Ngamoeyeik Creek in North Dagon Township. This was where she met Ko Khine Win and striked a friendship due to similar interests. Very much still a beautiful lady, slim, fair, well read but given up on men with no interest in the same sex either. Now she was venturing into a subject where no men would boldly go in their right mind. She has no idea of economics or shipping for that matter. The largest ships she seen were river paddlers while in Mawlamyine. It was more of a challenge and to test herself whether she was capable of picking up things from the other side as a figure of speech. Her colleagues did raise their eyebrows but was not particularly surprised view she was that type of a woman.

Before the commencement of the course she tried to get well acquainted with ocean going ships through the Internet, discussions with some old seafarers and also talking to Ko Khine Win, who may be a shade better than her. The Shipping Diploma was in no way to better herself professionally but to know some disciplines outside her scope as she also has Ko Khine Win, her good friend to hold her hand should she require same. An independent woman to be sure, driving a second hand 2006 Grey Hilux van imported from Japan, reason being right of way was more easily secured which she likes, even though the van maybe a bit big for her and seating for two only, if pushed three at the most. She drives to her class and everywhere that she ventures requiring transport. She also enjoys the looks bystanders gave and parking close to her was at their own risk, dare if you were willing park your car next to her. A bit of a fun loving girl, who tries to make the most of a given situation.  Regret to say the body of her van was not similar to her, as full of dents, scratches and small cracks here and there, but the engine was strong and good.

On her first day on the course, she went half an hour early to make sure she knows her way around and anchor a good seat in front of the class. However, after parking her van, sighting a canteen, she went inside for a spot of breakfast before the lecture. All seats were taken except for one near the exit with one gentleman occupying the other stool absorbed in his reading. She sat down and ordered a cup of coffee with a bowl of plain moakhingar, trying to limit her fat and cholesterol intake. While she ate and drank her cup of coffee, she noticed the not so young gentleman was fully engrossed in his old issue of National Geographic Magazine. She made a passing comment, “ Any good? ”

His eyes looked up and said, “ Quite, at my age I like to travel abroad to all the interesting places. This is a cheap way of satisfying my passion without spending big bucks. I travel to many areas depending on the issue, which I loan from a bookstall at Hledan market. ”

She smiled and he looking at his wristwatch said, “ Excuse me ” and suddenly got up and made for the exit. After her breakfast she made her way to her classroom on the first floor and found it was packed, but able to secure a seat on the last row with the kindness of a female student. It was stuffy and the humidity was well above the average, even though all the ceiling fans were whizzing.

After about two minutes the lecturer walked in. It was the gentleman she met few moments ago in the canteen. He was in his traditional longyi and placed his tike-pone (Burmese jacket) on the back of his chair.

He commented in not so loud voice, “ Welcome. My name is U Hla Myo, I shall be lecturing you all on chartering, its terms and clauses. There will be an examination at the end of each month, so your undivided attention will serve you well. I am not a degree holder of this fine Institute, but secured my Membership of the Chartered Institute of Transport, MCIT in London plus Diploma In Shipping coupled with Insurance qualifications there many, many decades ago. However that said, I shall walk quickly how demand and needs were created, commencement of international trade and the requirement for shipping and last but not least, take my time for more than twelve months on the subject of chartering, my main topic. My other learned colleagues will guide and teach   other disciplines of shipping. I was lucky and fortunate enough to work in the shipping industry all my working life and shall share with you my humble knowledge. For your information, I am still learning up till this very moment. ”

The class laughed in unison but Doris could sense they liked his style of lecture. Looking back, the lecture at hand had nothing to do with the magazine he was engrossed in few minutes ago. She was much interested in his opening lecture speech and found able to comprehend his message for now. After one and half hours, she spoke for a few moments with Ko Khine Win and made her way back to Yangon General Hospital to face another grueling day. Ko Khine Win also drove back to his Bo Aung Kyaw Street office. ‘Myo Gyi’ took another class before he also made his way home driving his 2001 Toyota Grande Mark ll. His thoughts were not on shipping, but his mind was on traveling. Phileas Fogg may have taken eighty days to go round the world as for him it was seconds, hopping from one place to another in his mind. Home was a different scene where there were chores to be attended as per Mary’s direction and be a driver, chauffeuring her to various supermarkets, not really keen in the different kind of foods, tins and packages of delicacies, which she found so very interesting. His interest were cars, basically 70’s and 80’s music and songs, literature on interesting places abroad and last but not least, ships and shipping businesses which he cannot have enough of it. Buddhist culture was to a certain extent, however still unable to master the art of meditation.

The next morning when Doris entered the canteen half hour before the lecture, she saw U Hla Myo comfortable on his stool, consuming green tea and reading his old National Geographic Magazine like the morning before.

Entering the canteen she exclaimed, “ Good morning Sayar! (Sir) ”

Myo Gyi looked up from his magazine and replied, “ Morning! Please do join me. Tea? Coffee? ”

Doris said, “ Thought I might find you in here, thank you but this morning I had my breakfast at home. Where are you now? ”

“ Ha Ha! Yes, I’m in Egypt, near Cairo, looking at the mummy tombs from inside the Pyramids. How’s your class thus far? ” said he, closing his frail magazine.

She placed her bottom on the stool in front of the small wooden table from him and said, “ Keeping my fingers crossed, fine so far. Being a novice and not from the business or shipping industry, do you think one will be able to follow up to the end of the course? ”

“ I should think so, the course is designed so that all can follow the lectures. Reading up literature from a well-stocked library would be a great help. I did not seem to notice you in the class yesterday, must be my eyes at old age. ”

“ Thank you for your thoughts and suggestions Sayar. You may not see me as I only managed to get a seat at the last row. Would you recommend any textbooks you are using? ”

“ Your question has been asked since the day I started teaching. I refer to various publications, some economic textbooks, shipping news and developments including the Internet. I hope that answers your question. Meantime, I better go otherwise I’ll be late for my class. Thank you for your kind words, it means a lot to me. ”

That said, U Hla Myo put his old National Geographic Magazine into his Shan bag and made haste for the classroom. Doris also rushed and did manage a seat due to some latecomers, however, not on the front row.

U Hla Myo opened his lecture by, “ Yesterday we discussed about how men achieved their needs and wants. We also discussed about bartering excess products between one set of population and another, to supplement their  essentials and the birth of trade during the Greek, Roman, Indian, Arab and some periods mankind did not even recorded. One thing is for sure though, where there is demand, supply follows at a price, thus satisfying the fundamental laws of economics. It has been said that the earliest known reference to an organization devoted to ships was in ancient India to the Mauryan Empire from the 4th century BC. Shipping developed because of the need for trade, thus shipping is said to be a ‘derived demand’ at a price, fluctuating with trade. Shipping demand in the long term are satisfied by new buildings. However in the short term, chartering are conducted. This is where I shall be emphasizing on. ”

For Doris Htay it was like listening to a radio program, except this was live, narrated by U Hla Myo. She thoroughly enjoyed it. So it went on for six months, tests and examinations were appeared and majority of the class managed to jump the hurdles. After the Thingyan (Myanmar New Year) holidays, Ko Khine Win made a proposal to Myo Gyi, “ Sayar, will you please join me and Doris Htay for a South Indian vegetarian dinner at Bharat on the corner  of Seinkan Thar and Mahar Bandoola Roads? I shall be honored to pick you up at your house on Saturday around six p.m., it’s a celebration to welcome in our Myanmar New Year. ”

“ Thank you Ko Khine Win. That would be nice. I’ll look forward to seeing you and your friend Doris Htay on Saturday. ”

The meal was good and satisfying, so was the excellent company. They chatted on various topics, and not concentrated specifically to the subject of shipping alone. The conversations were interesting and intelligent.  Ko Khine Win was more at ease with himself, and for the very first time, U Hla Myo noticed how beautiful Doris Htay was, he had not looked at her from that angle before. Her attire was not of the usual formal code she wore to classes and was dressed in a free flowing light blouse with distinct patches of Tanakha on her sweet face. He could smell her delicious aromatic scent when the slight evening breeze brushes his senses amidst the restaurant smell of Indian curries that floated around. While Ko Khine Win would be at times lost in his own thoughts, they covered many subjects and he found out that they both also shared a fondness for travel to various parts of the world sampling and admiring its particular culture and history plus heritage of their ancestors. Both were on the same wavelength and page, coupled with laughter and smiles.

Doris Htay has never shared her profession all this while attending the course and Ko Khine Win did not divulged it either, while many would share their experiences. As such, U Hla Myo posed a question to her, “ By the way, what is your profession? It will be good to know, I do not recall you shared this with the class. ”

“ I work in the Health Industry. I am a Pathologist by profession and a friend of Ko Khine Win, became acquaintances as we share the same interest of helping the orphans, the down and out street children, within our means of course.  ”

U Hla Myo persisted, “ Why attend the Shipping Diploma course? It’s so alien to your field. ”

“ Rightly said Sayar! I wanted to know things beyond my sphere and comfort zone. Ships and Shipping to me represents a mystic big question mark, a geography of many cultures, a journey and a business that I possibly cannot venture into, and understanding it is sort of a compassionate prize for me.  Purposely getting lost in its intricacies. Wonderful, is it not?  ”

“ I salute to you. Sort of understand your argument, it takes all sorts to make this world go round, does it not? You are the first such person who told me attending the course was for pleasure alone. Meantime, what is the story behind your philanthropy work? ”

“ Well Sayar, that’s me. I feel for those orphans. Do you know some of them are pretty smart and quick to learn? A few were and are misguided by their friends, peers and or their families at one point in time.  I enjoy nursing them back to the right track in life and taking care of their ailments, if any. Tender loving care goes a long way. ”

“ The more you tell me, the more I am so proud for you both, same time ashamed of myself for being selfish and not lifting a finger. ”

Ko Khine Win butted in and said, “ Sayar now you know and time to make a move before they throw us out. ”

That said, Rose bided her thanks and Ko Khine Win drove Sayar U Hla Myo back to his Parami residence. At home, U Hla Myo told his wife Mary about the work being undertaken by him and Dr. Doris Htay. She was truly impressed with their selfless contributions, and surprised at some of our younger generation of today what they would sacrifice. As days passed into weeks and month, the class took their final examinations and majority got through with seven cases of referrals and no failures. After three months they passed too.

One day just before Christmas, U Hla Myo received an unexpected call on his mobile phone early in the morning. The voice said, “ Hello Sayar? Merry Christmas, I could not call earlier on as I was drafted to go Taunggyi, it was a kind of blessing in disguise. At least I had the opportunity to spend time with my family and relatives. That’s beside the point, I really would like to host a belated private graduation dinner with you as guest of honor and my acquaintance Ko Khine Win too. Next Saturday 1900 hours, the venue is Oriental House, Myoma Kyaung Road, Dagon Township, please say yes? ”

“ Sounds like Dr. Doris Htay. I was actually thinking about you and wondering whether you were still in Yangon. I shall be honored and delighted to attend. Thank you for thinking of this old man. See you Saturday evening. Bye. ”

U Hla Myo switched his mobile phone off and continued to immerse himself back in the pages of the old issue of National Geographic Magazine, still very much robust, strong, teaching also dreaming of places to visit in the magazines. In reality, the closest he came to viewing a mummy was not in the sands of Egypt, but behind a glass case at the British Museum, London, during his younger years many decades ago. Still, archaeology holds much interest and a place in his heart, while visit to the Mayan ruins in Honduras, Belize and Guatemala realized only through the photographs in the pages of National Geographic Magazines. He often wondered why he did not feel much for the Dark Continent except for the South African shores and a few North African Countries. He much preferred to read about South America, the Middle East and East Asia barring Bangladesh no discrimination, just not his style. This passion cannot be shared with his wife, as hers was solely restricted to Buddhist sites, no more, no less.

The lecturer drove slowly in the cool of the evening. It was dry and fresh being December and the view of the golden Shwe Dagon Pogada, shining with its lights in full glory was truly majestic and a sight to marvel. Parking in front of the Chinese restaurant was not that easy being quite full. As he walked in, the waiter smiled and he mentioned her name. He was escorted to a small room and inside both Ko Khine Win and Doris were sipping green tea. On catching sight of him, Doris got up and showed him to his chair. Doris looked the same, fit, slim, beautiful and a handsome sight, cool and graceful as ever. Ko Khine Win poured and served a cup of green tea and thus the evening banquet commenced.

Doris began, “ Hope you found the way to the restaurant without difficulty Sayar. I would have invited you earlier if not for my trip to Taunggyi. Thank you for making it, and may I say from the onset that the course was enlightening which opened up my eyes and thank you again for the interesting lectures. ”  

Ko Khine Win also smiled and said, “ Must agree a hundred percent what Doris said and it also helped in my line of work. Even though we do not engage in any chartering, I appreciated the meaning, depth of the shipping clauses and terms, now more careful when concluding my contracts. Thank you Sayar. ”

Myo Gyi did not know what to reply, as he was embarrassed with their praises. However he managed to say, “ It was my job and happy to pass on my knowledge and grateful you all found it helpful in your own ways. ”

They chatted while they ate the delicious dishes. It was Doris who did most of the talking while he and Ko Khine Win listened with a few remarks in between. Soon the conversation turned to their philanthropy works. He did not realize that there were a few pure orphanages and some orphanages run together within monasteries by Buddhist monks. There were people dedicated to this line of work and Buddhist monks running such organizations too. There must be similar associations of the various religions, that he was not aware. Sad to admit but he now know how difficult to find donations and to make good their requirements and needs without disruptions. It truly was a monumental task and an education for him.

“ If I can be allowed a chance, I shall be grateful to accompany you all during weekends to look around for myself and see where I can be of assistance at my age to these poor, poor souls. ”

Doris replied, “ No problem Sayar, I shall give you a call the next time on my visit there. I also shall give you ample notice. ”

Ko Khine Win voiced out that, “ I shall be away on most weekends to the countryside to view the crops for our purchase, thus please forgive me Sayar. This is the season. ”

“ No problem Ko Khine Win, I understand your situation. ”

Soon, the wonderful evening came to a close with each party driving back to their homes. This time U Hla Myo was lost in thoughts about down and out orphan children and wanted to do something meaningful, a bit late but at least something and better than nothing. This was a new found interest and following it can only be in the form of his physical labour contribution view money donation was out of his league. Small amounts maybe. Doris was heavily involved in a monetary cum orphanage in North Dagon. There were about fifteen monks and over hundred orphans. Children ages vary from five to sixteen and a mixture of both males and females, so she said.

One morning before taking his class, U Hla Myo received a phone call from Doris Htay that she would be picking him up from his house on Saturday morning around seven for a drive to North Dagon monastery cum orphanage by the name of Aye Mya Kyaung, directly translated as Serene Monastery which he looked forward with awe.

Saturday morning came and the drive was somewhat hair-raising to say the least. Now he understood why she likes driving her Hilux van. On the road, most gives her a wide berth judging her driving skills. Her motto seems to be drive close to me at your own peril, as she does not care much about her van’s body. After reaching Aye Mya Kyaung, she held her clinic treating the children with her small case of medications. The queue in a single file was around a few dozens and should she treat the children similar to her driving, he pitied the orphans. That said, he walked alone around the orphanage monastery. It was well kept, neat and tidy but rather thread bare. When questioned, the kitchen staff told him that the meals depended on the food donations by various restaurants, mostly leftovers and unsold stuff. Should there be none or negligible, it was mostly rice gruel and alms collected by the monks, food was the same and no impartiality. It looked like their existence was hand to mouth. The more he saw, the more he marveled at the monks, staffs and donors. The whole compound was rather small, consisting of three main structures, one for the monks, one for the orphans and the main praying hall also serving as canteen, teaching place and below, the kitchen with a row of 6 toilets for all plus a well beside.

After his tour, he stood beside Doris while she attended the orphans in the main hall. When the hollow trunk was struck as a notification to the monks that food was being served, the ‘thud’ sound startled her and she jumped into his arms. He held her maybe a shade longer than necessary and she did not shy away either. Afterwards no one raised any comments and carried on as nothing transpired. However he did volunteer to tutor Matriculation English to three girls and five sixteen year old orphans from the monastery every other day plus interested pupils from around the area for a nominal fee to supplement their needing income till the State’s examination in June. The Head Monk was pleased with his tutoring donation and Doris Htay did express her appreciations. The monastery did offer to share their food, which they thankfully declined knowing full well all food counted to their wellbeing. After a couple more hours opening her clinic to  outsiders, at a nominal fee as funds for the monastery cum orphanage, Dr. Doris Htay called it a day.

U Hla Myo requested her to drive slowly on their way back for peace of mind and souls for all concerned. He was the first to break the silence, “ I’m sorry for my actions at the monastery. I stepped over the line, for that fleeting moment, I was enjoying holding you. Maybe my thoughts got the better of me that I was yearning since I first set eyes on you, about two years ago. The actions of an old married man like myself was uncalled for, I should have more control. It will not happen again, I’m sorry. ”

Doris returned his comments, “ Thank you for coming clean. Since you are being truthful, I think I should too. I also enjoyed the moment, which was also wrong. I had affections for you from the beginning of my Shipping course. Funny how one yearns for the impossible and do no not want what’s available. You are old enough to be my father, I must admit that my thoughts are uncalled for and wrong also. ”

“ I don’t blame you a bit. You are a free and single woman, while I am not. Besides, I should have acted my age. Furthermore, my faithfulness was in question. I asked myself how I would have felt should my wife do the same. I really should have not step over the line. ”

“ At least the consolation was we did not pursue to eat the apple from the Garden of Eden. For your information, being a medical doctor, I did a synopsis with an open mind to find out what the outcome would be, should we step further. I never got the answer. ”

U Hla Myo continued, “ I enjoy your company and like your attitude. Please note not many women fit my bill and I very much wish to continue our relationship as good friends, that is, if you so agree. ”

“ You can be quite blunt Sayar. I also find your acquaintance desirable and suited my requirements I looked for in a man, but it’s fated that I should be a spinster. The answer to your question is ‘Yes’, I also would like for us to be good fiends and continue do what we do. No harm done to any party. What say you Sayar? ”

“ I already told you that I agree from the onset, thus we shall leave it at that, mention no more and continue walk forward. ”

U Hla Myo felt guilty for his thoughts for Phyu Phyu, after all he could not have had a better, faithful and devoted wife as Mary and wanted to continue till the cows came home. To him, she was evergreen and ageless, dedicated and a good wife and mother to their son. He was of two minds but he was certain this was totally wrong and unfair to Doris too.

For the first time Doris smiled and offered her hand which U Hla Myo shook and nothing was further discussed from then on. She drove him to his house slowly and after he got off at the top of his road, she was her usual self again, a road devil indeed.

From Sunday seven p.m., he tutored Matriculation English at the Aye Mya Kyaung and pleased to notice that his starting class was nearly a hundred pupils.The Head Monk was also pleased to see the orphans were tutored and at the same time happy on the generation of much needed funds. U Hla Myo’s wife also at times would join in and did the books for them.

Sayar U Hla Myo also continued to lecture for the Shipping Diploma Course at the Institute of Economics, while also doing charity works at other Buddhist temples and monasteries. He also continued to see Dr. Doris Htay sharing his own thoughts, and at times eating a meal or two in town. They saw each other off and on, and laugh a few jokes and strike a meaningful conversation, but never did they cross that fine line.

From Dr. Doris Htay points of view, she shall continue to treat and cure people and also enjoy her relationship spiritually with Sayar U Hla Myo. Her karma does not will her to be a married woman, and single she shall remain till the end of her life. At times she thought how could life be so cruel and maybe paying back for something she did wrong in her previous existence.

For better or worst, life went on.

5. Epilogue :

It has been written in our heritage that all roads lead to Rome, while this may be true, the paths taken maybe different for each and it is on those various paths that many life experiences occurs. Love for sure is better than hate, but there are so many kinds of loves that one finds intriguing.

To start off and the most common was the love between Ko Saw Dylan and Naw Phyu Phyu Kyaw, which most understands and appreciated by all. Lovely and a storybook love affair enjoyed and accepted by all. There is also the love of Ko Saw Dylan and his parents and Naw Phyu Phyu Kyaw and her parents and siblings. Still love, but appreciation of it was somewhat different, but still in the category of love.

The love and affection showered by Ko Khine Win, Dr. Doris Htay and Sayer U Hla Myo upon the orphans were also surely to be commended, pure and selfless, to be sure. Their rewards being a feeling of self-satisfaction to observe their endeavors bearing fruits and successes in the orphans life, same as the monks and other donors of every kind. A Kind of accomplishment some might say.

The love between Sayar U Hla Myo and his wife Mary is also to be celebrated. For more than four decades holding true to each other, and channeling the same to their only son, that he may secure all the fruits of success plus a healthy and rewarding long life. Their river of love, all flows to the estuary of their son. Commendable.

However, when it comes to love between Sayar U Hla Myo and Dr. Doris Htay, it’s a glaring question mark. For most of us, such feelings should not have taken place in the first instance, and for your guidance, they did not pursue either. Which everyway one looks at it, it’s totally unethical in our books. Ethical or otherwise, is it not the views of our society, culture and so-called friends? Should Sayar U Hla Myo be a Muslim by faith, he could have taken up to four wives and our surroundings (society, culture and friends) would accept, maybe reluctantly, and also turn a blind eye in the process. However should Dr. Doris Htay taken a husband more than one, it would be unacceptable and unethical, of the Muslim faith or not. Polygamy, polygyny, polyandry, conjoint marriages or bigamy is illegal in our lands and is shunned and frowned upon. It is interesting to note our world differs in their opinion, depending on the country we live. Most countries in Africa, Middle East, Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Kalimantan and Papua New Guinea accepts, while some tuning a blind eye, for a few, its legal status unknown, but for majority, totally outlawed, abolished and criminalized. A bit strange how no general consensus on this matter. Somehow, it was similar to  ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy instituted by the Clinton Administration on 28^th February, 1994 till 20^th September, 2011 on Gays, Lesbian and Bisexual issues in the United States’ military. Burying the heads under the sand will give no clear answers.

In the case of Sayar U Hla Myo and Dr. Doris Htay, being devout Buddhists, pursuance was not an option and knew they would not be happy should they even if immigrated to another country, where they would be anonymous. While this would be on case to case basis, it was not for them.

As for Ko Khine Win, he took the path of self-denial, shunning love as we commonly know it, for fear of being hurt once again. Wrongly or rightly, being one’s own perspective and his view on this being ‘Once bitten, twice shy’. 

This gives rise to question, is love not an enigma?

On this note, a short article penned on this mystique, sourced on the Internet is herewith reproduced.

Thank you.

Ways of Love

As devout Buddhists, most of Myanmar people take to heart the teachings of the Buddha in their daily lives. Among those teachings, metta or loving-kindness plays an important role and the Buddha Himself was the greatest practitioner of loving-kindness in the whole world. It was out of this immense love toward all creatures and living beings that He had resolved to become a Buddha at the beginning of a series of existences so that He could help them get out of their vicious circles. In one of His sermons, the Buddha exhorted His followers to regard all living creatures as the only son of one's own. Because of this particular teaching of the Buddha that Myanmar people have come to acquire such positive characteristics as being kindhearted, helpful, sympathetic, benevolent, tolerant and forgiving. However, you may be taken by surprise if you are informed of the exact number of ways (or rays) of love nominally existent among Myanmar people. Sometimes, they might mention the 528 or 1,500 ways of love in the Myanmar tradition. People mention the 528 ways of love to indicate pure, selfless, platonic love between two human beings, and the 1,500 ways refer to love of a passionate and selfish nature especially between man and woman. Although both numbers are generally talked about as love, only the 528 way is the real loving-kindness while the 1,500 way is not genuine love but only base passion and lust looked upon as defilements in Buddhism. These exact numbers originated in Buddhist scriptures. The scriptures divide people, mind and matter, direction, type of love and defilement into different categories and add them up or multiply them with each other. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------