Seasons crawled to walking tall

It is and was commonly said up to this day that no one dies from hunger in Burma (Myanmar). Then, Burma was the rice bowl of the world. That statement may be true or otherwise, however it does not matter in the least for Ko Ko Oo, fifteen years of age. He was just content to have a job as a collie during the school breaks. He shoulders 50kilo rice bags from the railway wagons to the awaiting trucks. The railway wagons can hold up to 55.5 and 58.8 tons, sometimes around 60 tons, depending on its type. The rice wagons rolls into Botataung Station, which was and still is the main goods rail station in Rangoon (Yangon) that can accommodate more than 3 to 4 trains simultaneously and work all at the same time. The trucks were usually parked 20 to 30 yards away from the platforms and can load up to 1200 bags per trip. Ko Ko Oo shoulder the bags in his shorts with an old longyi slung over his back, to avoid any contact with the rough gunny or polypropylene rice bags. The carriage on shoulders are and were done bare chested, come rain or shine till this day.

Ko Ko Oo (loosely to mean first born son) was made to leave his poor parents in Mawlamyine four years ago to search for greener pastures elsewhere. He had been living rough since, wherever and whenever he can, as long as his young belly can be filled. We would not be wrong to term him a street kid, living from hand to mouth daily, and keeping an open eye so that he will not be captured and be marched off to a borstal. He has traveled to many villages, towns and cities in his plight. He does not know where his parents are anymore, but was drummed into him that he has three other siblings and been told his date of birth. Apart from that nothing register in his young mind on his family anymore, except only how to make it to the next day. Living and sleeping rough was tough at that tender age, minding for himself. The monasteries do not want to have anything to do with him either, as his credentials were somewhat vague and lacking. He sought work wherever he could. He laid rocks in the construction of new roads, dug holes for new toilets, became a helper in teashops and carried meat at the morning and evening markets. He did anything and everything that would fill his hungry tummy and win a place to sleep. However, the streets did taught him a few things though, how hard to secure a decent job, what it takes to fulfill expectations, how diplomacy played in his line of work, last not the least, when to fight and when cut and run. In short, he soon became a streetwise kid. Survivability was the key. 

Two years ago, while roaming the streets in search for work and food, he found refuge in a home on 57^th Street, Rangoon. It was pure luck to say the least. Daw Ohn Sine, a moakhingar seller, lost her 12 years old only son, on account of cheap drugs available on the streets, only months ago.  Ko Ko Oo became her daily wage helper. Always willing to run the extra mile and good with the customers, and sales were up also. He slept in container yards while no one was looking and sneaked quietly on laid up trains to rest his tired body for the night. Daw Ohn Sine took him in on a trial basis, and he shone beyond expectations. Her husband, U Latt Khin, a Branch Clerk at the Botataung Railway Station gave his consent for the test. He just wanted his wife not to grief any further, and if Ko Ko Oo can be that instrument, he was all for it. Besides, they had a place for him to sleep and his late son’s old clothes were still there. Home was a small ground floor government owned apartment and Ko Ko Oo did the chores smilingly, never forgetting this was heaven. He was careful with the intake of food and always made sure his guardians U Latt Khin and Daw Ohn Sine came first and never too liberal with dishes or rice. After a few months, he called them dad and mum which pleased them. He was a bright lad with a sharp mind. Should some moakhingar gravy be unsold, he only ate with that for lunch and sometime dinner too, depending on amount left. He made sure nothing went to waste.  During the afternoons, if free, he would stand outside the state school windows and catch up on lessons he missed out on. The state no.8 middle and high school was just down the road from the apartment. He knew which side of the bread was butter as it were, and made sure nothing he did jeopardize his current amicable status. Opportunity only comes round once.

Knowing his love for knowledge, his guardian mother, Daw Ohn Sine took him to the nearby school down the road and had him tested on his intelligence quality (IQ) and placed him in the seventh standard. After a few months they noticed not only was he coping, but also excelled in his studies. He continued to help his guardian mother before and after school, but regretfully after two years of catering, this regime came to an abrupt stop as her rheumatism in her hands turns for the worst.  Since then, from the age of fifteen, he resorted to being a collie at the railway goods yard with the help of his guardian father. All the money that he earned was handed to his mother cent for cent daily. Ko Ko Oo never forgot the kindness showered on him by his new guardian parents. The work was taxing, but much better than the street life he was living. Any day.

Matriculation was a formality and walk over for him, but did not secure any distinctions. He did not want his guardian parents to fork out any extra money for special tuition on account of him. Money was hard enough to come by as it was. He enrolled at the Workers College for his Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) reading Chemistry. Classes were in the evenings during weekdays and daytime in weekends, thus the name Workers College. He endured, while his collie work was promoted to being a tally clerk that yielded better money after passing the matriculation examination. He was still a daily wages worker and secured this tally clerk position with the kindness and some nudging by his father U Latt Khin, and the work was not as back breaking like before. The money he earned was handed to his mother as usual. While he studied at the Workers College, he took upon himself to be a waiter at a nearby teashop during weekends in the evenings. Small portion of this salary he kept as pocket money, and handed the remainder to his mother, plus tea and a cake or two for his parents at the end of the evenings when the shop retired for the night. From his pocket money, he bought an umbrella for his father in exchange for his old one, which he kept for use during the rainy season after some necessary repairs. The parents were more than satisfied with his kind deeds.

He could have applied for a place at the Defense Services Academy (DSA) and secure his degree and become an officer in the armed forces. This would have eased financial burdens for his foster parents, not to worry about board, lodging, clothing, and never have to think where the next meal will be coming from. A career in the armed forces never appealed to him, he did not like fighting or trying to put someone down. He already suffered enough in his hay days and does not want to be a part of it no more. Ko Ko Oo does realize that someone got to do the dirty job, but just does not want to be a part of it. Life on the streets remained very fresh in his mind.

His guardian mother would say, “ Tha (son), no need to just fulfilling our needs, you also take care of yourself. I know you go out of your way to make our lives comfortable, but you are a growing man now and we understand.”

He replied, “ Mother, I should actually do more for you and father. I hope to better myself after my graduation and hope that you both be more than comfortable in the future. Your kindness really touched my heart and I cannot repay enough, ever.”

Ko Ko Oo grew up as a street wise kid thus also not difficult for him to make friends with the near by sidecar (three wheeler bicycle) stand. He would take his mother to the general practitioner by sidecar for follow-ups on her rheumatism three streets down. This way, at least riding a sidecar would be comfortable for her and the driver charged him less due to their ongoing friendship. The medications prescribed for her were of China and or India origins, costs were at a minimum and can be bought at most drug stores.  She did not needed much and content on looking after him and his father, which was her life. The money father makes plus his daily tally clerk fees just about cover their household costs, barring no unforeseen circumstances. They kept their needs to a bare minimum. He just thanked his lucky stars for this life, as it was incomparable to his previous street existence or before that.

The young man continued his studies at the Workers College and he did spy a beautiful young lady, roughly same age as him taking the same course and in the same lecture hall as him. She journeys to college in a private saloon car, possibly belonging to her parents, and at the end of the day, the car would be waiting about hundred yards by the next lane to fetch her back home. He usually stood by the columns of the entrance, allowing him a clear view, while the columns shielded him from onlookers. Ko Ko Oo finds her to be a fair young lady who did not overdress, like some others, who if did not know might think they be going for a photo shoot. With their hair in multi colour waves and their wears all shinning with artificial added on to make them more full on the boobs and backside. In the lecture theater, she sat quietly and maybe shares an odd comment or two with her girl friend sitting left from her. According to the lecture register, her name was Thazin Aye (meaning flowery cool).

During his second year one weekend in July, while experiencing a heavy downpour, she hurried in with an automatic umbrella in one hand and the other balancing her books and a small wallet. As she reached for the stairs, the wallet dropped.

He was behind her and picked it up and exclaimed, “ Excuse me, believe this is yours. I’d be more careful in future, there are all sorts here and you might make somebody very happy.”

She turned with a surprised look and said, “ Thank you, yes, this is mine, thank you again.”

Ko Ko Oo handed back her small wallet and also made haste for the lecture hall to ensure a seat where he can hear the lecturer and also see the blackboard as well. Nothing more was passed between them. After the lecture, all made a rush for the canteen during the lunch recess.

Thazin Aye exclaimed to him, “ Can I buy you something to eat?”

He replied, “ No thank you, instead may I buy you a cup of tea or coffee?”

She accepted his offer and they both made their way outside the college, to a teashop by the Botataung Pagoda. She with her automatic umbrella, and he holding his handed down black umbrella from his father, fully repaired of course. She settled for coffee with milk and he joined her, no sugar, they were already sweet enough.

He started the conversation, “ Terrible wet day, but the rice farmers must be happy. Should this continue, the price of rice ought to be not that high come next harvest in October and November.”

While sheltering by the shades of the teashop she replied, “ Yes I suppose so, thank you again for giving my wallet back. I’m Thazin Aye, how are you getting on with the course?”

He replied, “ I’m getting on fine. I’m sure we’ll pass this year examinations and move on to the third year. Hello, my name is Ko Ko Oo, and I live nearby on the 57^th Street and I see that you must be attending from quite a distance.”

She replied, “ Yes, I have to come all the way from Parami, at least 35 to 40 minutes drive.”

They continued to make conversation. They talked on their study subject and their aspirations too. Without saying much on the subject of love, they did talk with their eyes sizing each other up. Ko Ko Oo knew that should he continue, they soon will be a courting couple. He hated himself for starting something that he was not willing to go through. Their standings were from different worlds and he could not even offer a meal, as his limited budget will be down the drain. He was diplomatic but he decided not to continue, for this conversation to develop into a romance. He neither has the power of money, time or the patience to carry on something with no end. His priority was first, getting a degree, second, to find a worthy job with a good salary with prospects and third, to make sure that his guardian parents continue to live comfortably without the need to think about money in their old age. After the lunch hour, they both went their ways back to the lecture halls.

He now being a young adult does want a girl friend and his young body yearns for some physical comfort now and then. But due to his financial restraints, he could not make good his desires. Some of his friends enticed him to join them and go see a Blue Movie on discs, which he did. However, it was something beyond him and did not continue on such escapades. At times, he would like to be comforted in the arms of the ladies of the night, like some of his friends who enjoyed. He did not have the means and tried to shut it out from his mind. Should he become from bad to worst, he resorted to relieving himself that was safe, healthy, costs effective and did not hurt anybody in the process. This lustfulness overcame, he continued on his chores and matters at hand. Thazin Aye with time slowly disappeared from his mind and continued on the serious business of earning money and obtaining his degree within the stipulated time frame.

Monsoon rains came and passed. Water festivals and Thadinkyuts celebrated one after another. Final examinations were appeared and attempted yearly and the long awaited BSc degree was awarded after a much lengthy wait. He did not attend the graduation ceremony as Ko Ko Oo believed that it was a waste of time, money, clothes and patience, not to mention the stuffiness, humidity and the heat inside the convocation hall. After conferment of his long awaited degree, he applied to seven private companies after doing much research. Two in shipping, another two in pharmaceuticals, one in the hospitality industry, one in tourism and one in the airlines business. Four reverted back, one each from shipping, pharmaceuticals, Airlines and from the hospitality industries. He appeared for all the personal interviews and found the offer from the pharmaceutical industry was the most attractive. His parents left it to him for his own choosing, as they trusted his judgment. He joined Save Lives Pharmaceuticals, a medication and health equipments importing agency, as one of the new six Sales Officers for the company. His duty areas were Lanmadaw, Pabaedan and Latha districts of Rangoon, where their clients were most situated. He served under a Sales Executive. They were to fulfill set targets set out by the company. Otherwise, bye bye and be replaced by a new staff in lieu. Should there be a superimposed situation, the one likely to yield a fat contract takes over which was discussed in the meeting held every morning at nine. By ten, all sales personnel were driven to designated points where they made their rounds on foot. By evenings they are to make it back to the dropped points by five, then be driven back to office. The Company was situated on the Prome Road, opposite the Bund and thence to rejoin the ferry crowd back, at six prompt. Should there be entertainments or unfinished business, they were to find their own way back. Ferries pick them up in the mornings at seven thirty at predetermined points.  All very clear-cut.

Their main job was to promote and sell the company’s imported medications and health equipments plus spares to their customers. In their areas, there were a total of nearly two hundred identified customers comprising of hospitals, their separate departments, clinics, drug stores, medical laboratories and specialists. They carry brochures, sample medications, hand phone and an ipad for swift communications and work to be performed on the go. They advertise themselves as just a call away and acknowledge emails within the hour. All company products information’s were to be off the cuff. One needs about three months before actual functionality. Any outstanding work or clerical matters were to be cleared the same day and no overtime paid but a month bonus was made at the end of year service. The job was demanding but the pay was good. The Company’s motto was the carrot and the stick. No need for monitoring, their performance will do the talking.

Ko Ko Oo enjoys the challenges of work, and at home he was now the main bread winner, this pleased him. His parents were proud of him, however evening return times was most irregular and not like U Latt Win who was back at six. His additional income helped ease the household maintenance.  His mother kept his working clothes wardrobe always washed, ironed and crisp, ready to wear. His seven long sleeve shirts and three tetrex trousers were always at the ready. He washes his under garments while he bathes at night and shined his black shoes before bedtime. This he did for not wanting his mother to be imposed on those also. He also kept his hair short and combed, so that he was always smart, neat and presentable at work. This opens doors and the rest was up to his charm and diplomacy to woo them, this he learnt while he was still iving on the streets.

For home, he managed to buy a small television and an EVD (Enhanced Versatile Discs) player, which can be plugged in with the television to watch discs of their choice and also listen to religious chanting by well-known monks. At the same time he also installed a small out door air conditioner unit in his parents bedroom so that they could rest better at night. This was the least he could do after all they did struggled without a word of complaint up to graduation. This was his pay pack time and was happy to be able to do it. His quotas were met at work and during his second year, he was promoted to Sales Executive with a Sales Officer of his choice. Now in his third year, he intends to buy a medium size Korean made fridge and a China manufactured gas cooker for his mother birthday. Both his father and mother now tend to be more comfortable at home. He likes that and put a smile on his face.

He was happy on his turf. Ko Ko Oo turned down a promotion to Assistant Manager, Sales. The customers know him and he knows the customers well and they opened their doors with a smile. He intends to carry on at the same position for at least till the end of this year. Securing a big fat account also meant a small percentage of the sales, meaning quite a tidy sum for him also.

One day while he was on his rounds at the Cardiology Ward of the Rangoon General Hospital, he saw a new face, a young doctor by the name of Moe Moe Min (loosely to mean king of rains). She was fair with a ponytail and wears glasses. Beautiful and not overly dressed, age wise must be a few years younger than him. She wears a white duty coat with her stethoscope slung round her neck like a necklace. From the first moment he saw her, she seemed to attract him like a magnet. He spoke to her in the course of business and found to be responsive, cordial, efficient and intelligent judging from her answers. Not a loud person and rather quiet and keeps to herself. Everybody, staff and patients like her, including him.

After a few months he also found out that she was single also. One Friday, he shot her a question,” Dr. Moe Moe Min, I shall be most happy if you can join me for a simple dinner in Chinatown this evening at six. I can wait by the no.4 side entrance, it will truly be an honour.”

She replied,” You seem to know my name, how come you know I’m off at six today and uses the no.4 side entrance of the hospital?”

“I know a lot about the things that interest me. Will you do me the honour of joining me to a simple dinner this evening at six?” Ko Ko Oo insisted.

“ All right then, hope it is not a sales dinner, see you at six.” She stated and rushed off to the nurses’ station.

He waited by the no.4 side entrance of the hospital and walked together to Chinatown 21^st Street. They talked shop while sharing a few jokes in between. She looks a simple girl with Thanakha on her face with a hint of lipstick on her lips. He thought she must have some Chinese blood, as her features were not totally Burmese. She held a smallish sling bag and wears normal white lady slippers and not the western shoes. This was the fist time he invited the opposite sex for a meal or drinks since his college days with Thazin Aye. He felt real excitement and this was one affair he intends to walk the whole mile. The food stall on the 21^st Street was jam-packed. They waited, as he wanted to be seated by a small table in the street, more private with no additional people sharing the table. The food variety was endless and the portions were small, not to mention the prices were cheap too. It’s one of those places where one would go for the taste only and not the ambiance. The food was mainly precooked, and one could view through the glass penal before ordering. No need worry on the prices as all were the same and the bill was settled on the number of dishes on one’s table. Both viewed, pointed and ordered. The dishes were mainly with pork.

After that they sat on wooden stools and waited for their orders to be served. Ko Ko Oo started the conversation, ”Please rest assured this is not, I repeat that this is not a sale pitch and totally private and Dr. Moe Moe Min, please note I will not claim back from the company.”

She let out a small laugh and replied, “ Thank you for your clarification, nice to know. Don’t call me Dr. Moe Moe Min, it sounds very official. You may address me as Moe. It is good enough. Looks like you have been doing some homework?”

“ Thank you kindly Moe. Yes, in fact I did a lot of homework. You must be a Thursday born, I am Ko Ko Oo, not a Monday born, but my parents must have given me this name as I am their first born. If you wish, you can call me Ko.”

“ Yes, I am Thursday born. My father is U Hla Moe and mother is Daw Thet Thet. Father parents were Cantonese and my grandparents from mother side got Hokkien blood. Any problems on that?” she said and looked at him in the eyes.

“ No problem Moe. I was right in thinking you got Chinese blood. I want to be totally honest with the girl I like. I do not know where I was born, but believe somewhere around Mawlamyine. I also do not know where my parents are and nor I know where my siblings of three are today. I was very poor, a street kid, raised by my foster parents of U Latt Khin and Daw Ohn Sine. Foster father is a Branch Clerk at the Botataung Railway Goods Station and foster mother, a simple housewife, staying on the 57^th Street in a government ground floor two bedrooms apartment. I also worked as a collie before by matriculation examination, we were then living from hand to mouth.” Ko Ko Oo said sadly.

Dishes were laid on their table and both tugged in without much fanfare. The food was good and they used chopsticks.

After a while, Moe continued, “You poor man, it must have been a struggle. I am happy that you pulled up to what you are today. I like a man who got no airs and is utterly honest. My parents were small time shopkeepers in a store on Mahabandola Street. Now they continue to open a small supermarket on Parami Road and we live in nearby Gangawmyine Street in a small house within a compound. I have one elder sister, who is also a doctor, married to her doctor husband and stationed in Magway. They aim to settle down in Kyauk Mae, a small town in the Shan States as his parents are from there and has a house too.”

 

They opened up about each other and topped it all up with a glass of cold lemon juice. They walked to Sule, talking about their families, aspirations and their fears. The bus was not crowded around nine and they both manage to secure a seat right up to their destination of Parami stop. The breeze through the window as cool and he could smell the sweet aroma of the Thanakha on her face. Ko Ko Oo was happy and content and just hoped that Moe will feel the same about him. They alighted at the Parami crossroad with Kabar Aye Pogoda road and handed Moe to her mother in front of Sabai Oo supermarket and took a return bus to town and headed back to his home on 57^th Street. His satisfied smile was from east to west.

Months rolled on, monsoons rained, flooded and seasons withered and now once again the coolness of December returned. They have been a courting couple for about a year and he only dared to hold her hand for fear of loosing her. At the same time he does not want to be labeled as a dirty old man. One early morning during the weekend, both Moe and Ko climbed the Shwe Dagon hill and paid homage to Lord Buddha. After that, they found a quiet place at the outer rim of the Pagoda under the corrugated roof of a Zayat (resting place). There, he took out two gold rings especially to his specifications. It was actually thin gold bands. Ko could not afford more from his small budget.

He slowly said, “ Moe, I love you and do swear under the Shwe Dagon Pagoda that I shall be loyal to you and offer my undivided love till death do us part. Until our marriage, will you accept and wear my engagement ring?”

“ Yes my darling, I accept your engagement ring and shall wear it for always. I shall be yours till forever and a day. I shall have to inform my parents of our engagement and also my sister in Magway. Hope its okay?” Moe reverted.

Ko reiterated, “ Please do, I shall want you to inform them. I also will inform my parents too.  I will also wear the identical gold ring on my right second finger for all to see that I am engaged also. This is a big day for me.”

This said, Ko gave a full kiss on Moe’s lips. This was his first time he had done so and does not care if anybody was watching. After all, they were engaged. For the second kiss Moe declined saying that it was not done in public, however she did give him a small pap on his right cheek. Both wore their engagement rings, fully satisfied and content walked round the Pagoda in the crisp coolness of the morning.

On reaching home, Moe informed her parents and they were happy as long as she was happy. She then telephoned her sister at Magway General Hospital. They spoke for about four or five minutes. After the call, Moe was all smiles. Ko also informed his parents during lunch, and mother wanted to give her necklace gold chain as a memento, which he had to refrain her. His father was more realistic. Even though he concurred his engagement, he advised him to think about where he wanted to live. He informed Ko that should they be married in the near future, she was most welcomed to share his present bedroom, as this was all they had. All meant well and this kindness touched him.

Ko made it a point to see Moe at least one time in the weekdays during his sales visits and have a meal together during weekends. On such an evening, while enjoying hot pot at Shwe Yone Lay restaurant on the Parami Road, Moe broke her latest news to Ko.

“ I intend to tender my resignation in a week’s time before my transfer order is out. I hope to join a small private hospital in South Okkalapa, the pay is better there. I also do not want to be transferred out of Rangoon and can be beside my parents.”

He waited for a few seconds and after putting down his spoon he said, “ That’s a good move. So, you are at last joining us into the private sector. Jokes aside, maybe its all for the best. The only drawback is I cannot visit you during the weekdays, which I am presently doing. But at least you will be closer to your parents and need not move from town to town every few years. I’m all for it.”

Moe was relieved that Ko concurred her intended move. At least they will still be together during weekends. Ko was gauging when he ought to pop the question about his marriage offer. He was now 25, right age for marriage but he wanted a place for his foster parents to retire where there was some land and they can breathe freely and wander, not like the present 57^th Street apartment. At the same time, he needed a place in Rangoon where he can continue to generate money. He was truly in dilemma and was at a loss.  He did raise this point with Moe, looking for answers.

She said in a matter of fact manner, “ Oh, that’s easy. If you wish, built a small house in our compound. There is enough land and the compound is large enough for two houses. Sell your parents 57^th Street apartment and use the funds to build the house. In the meantime, they can put up in my parents house. It is large enough to accommodate all three of you, maybe a bit tight, but okay. The construction should be not more than a year. After all, we are engaged now and I see no negative response from my parents.”

Ko said, “ Thanks for your kind offer. I first need to discuss with my parents. My father ought to be retired in 2 or 3 years time, when he reaches 60.”

Ko Ko Oo’s brain was working overtime. Marriage next year means he will be 26 and Moe 24. His father should be around 58, so if any building was to be done, work ought to commence during the coming rainy season and lay the foundations. Thus he needs to seek their approval soonest as need time to advertise for a sale. Parami was in a high-class residential part of town. It may not be in the best posh residential bracket, but it was good enough. Today, a good location was so hard to come by and demand was on the rise while no more supply. All very expensive indeed.

Work wise, he will consider the promotion to Assistant Manager, Sales, meaning more late nights as his area of control will be at least for half of Rangoon. That’s a lot of area to be covered. There will be no gains without pains so he has got to bite the bullet. Selling the apartment, building the house, starting a family were all big issues and that got to fit in with his job like a glove. A tall order at that. First, he must get an agreement of marriage from Moe as that will get the ball rolling.

Come next Saturday, while enjoying their usual dinner in Chinatown, he popped the question, “ Moe, you know I love you dearly. You are the best thing that has happened in my life. I want to marry you come next December. Till then, I’ve got a lot to attend and arrange. By then, I’ll be 26 and you will be 24, will you agree to my humble proposal of marriage?”

Moe was perplexed with his proposal and delighted at the same time. All she had to say was, “ Of course I know you love me. I’ll marry you any day. I will be proud to have you as my husband. I’ll follow you wherever you go, but please stay in Rangoon. I want to be beside my parents in their old age to be their pillar of strength. I am sure you would like to do the same for your parents and want to be their daughter also.” 

That was the answer he was looking for and now he must ignite the fuse. He had swum in the difficult seasons to maturity. He had lived in poverty, on the streets and also endured in the harshness and toughness of his youth, and now this was his part two in life, which he did not want it to be full of thorns. He must make sure that his foster parents can retire in comfort. They had done so much for him when no one offered a hand to a sinking man, now it was his turn to hurl the flag in front of them and be their knight in shining armour and ward of all evils. Now was the time also for both his and Moe’s family to unite as one and stand together to face come what may.

Time and again Ko reminded to himself that after his marriage to Moe, he never want to take that sad path again. He suffered immensely in the seasons crawled to walking tall. He wanted it to be over and done with, once and for all. Subject closed.

Hinegyi Kyun of Maritime College

Hainggyi Kyun island, Haikyi island, or plain Hainggyi Kyun is a small island in Myanmar, outside in the Pathein river delta, position at Latitude 16.0 degrees north and Longitude 94 degrees 19.60 minute east, which branched out from the Irrawaddy river arteries and overlook southward into the Andaman Sea. Today, it is a Naval Base and the views are stunning. That’s about it really.

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Her body may not be comparable to Roman goddess of Venus, who embodies sex, love, beauty, enticement, seduction, and persuasive female charm. But San San Win (loosely to mean budding bright) is twenty one years of age, about five feet six, single, fair, university graduate, loose long jet black hair, with dimensions a wee bit short of Venus, boobs cup size 34B, is still a beautiful contentious young lady, desired and wished by majority of men, young and old. Many a young lady, including grandmas and aunties also feels she reflects the young generation of girls of today, thus do support her wholeheartedly. Girls of today keep an eye on her and copy the styles of clothes she wears including her hairstyle, make up, face powder and the colognes that she uses. Such are the dilemmas of our fairer sex of today. She is on the national television programmes and on many advertisements from washing liquids to lady wears. From kindergartens to grand parents, her name is at their tip of the lips, and from wall posters to candy wrappers she smiles to you. Fans galore, you name it, she is there giving you her eyes.  Even in public toilets you cannot escape from her. From the urinals to the toilets, her name is scribbled or scraped into the paint and one cannot do the business without her name gracing down on us. No more privacy. Money must be pouring in like the monsoon rain. One wonders, does she lay golden eggs?

Acting is a subject where one has to have a talent within ourselves and no need for paper qualifications as such, here in Myanmar anyway, and presume the same elsewhere also. One can become an Actress or Actor and have a good relationship with directors and producers, but the fact still remains whether the public at large accept you or otherwise. Their popularity is measured in terms of ticket sold in cinemas and discs sold and or volume rented out by many discs outlets. This is not taking into consideration advertisements and commercials they make. Their peak of success is usually when they are at an age most desirable and exponentially declines when the dreaded age catches up and drag  them down, as there are numerous young starlets waiting in the wings, full of talent, to walk over with a smile. For an actress, this would be from around eighteen to low thirties. More realistically peaks around mid twenties when one’s flower full bloom turns for the reverse course. Their peak period is maximum six years, if they are lucky. For want of privacy and keeping their names confidential, no direct mention  or hints will be made in this article, not to hamper their existing careers. Older actors and actresses do retain their popularity, however as the Singaporeans would put it, ‘No fight, no fight’ with the blooming young actresses and actors in the limelight. Today, we witness from all walks of life, including university students to graduates, country flowers to shop assistants, wanting to be actresses and actors and be successful at that. They want to be deemed beautiful or handsome, as the case maybe and be the voted the best looking and desirable by the masses. This measured as stated, by cinema tickets and discs sold and or volume of discs rented out by the various outlets plus advertisements. The actresses sometime sings (if they are blessed with a voice) in marriage ceremonies celebrated in high class hotels and at stage shows, as an advertisement while making good money as well. If they can’t, they might perform in fashion shows and the likes. This profession is vulnerable, and most try to earn as much as possible while they can, when they can, understandably.

Ms. San San Win lives at no. 31 of Kan Tha Yar Road (meaning pleasant lake) in Kabar Aye area of Yangon. It is in the bracket of posh residential areas by a small lake. The houses there are quite well built, quaint and pleasant to look at with a comfortable compound. She is the second daughter with a younger brother of U Thaung Win, father, ex-civil engineer of the Irrigation Department and Daw Aye San, a diamond broker. Her eldest sister, Thuzar San Win, is married, who lives in Taunggyi town with her husband and his family. Younger brother, Kyaw San Win, lives at home, a Sales Executive with a local shipping company. These days, both the parents are her guardians, accountants and personal managers, making sure she undertake suitable parts and do commercials they see as good advertisement and all must boost her career. They also make sure she is well protected from men with desirable eyes and mouths dripping with saliva. Should there be any free time left in her busy schedule, she spends it doing some gardening work in the compound to ease her pressure and soothe her nerves plus a sort of exercise also. Time is fully utilized leaving enough hours for a good night sleep, so that her face does not have bags under her eyes at photo shoots and on camera while filming.

In the adjacent compound at no.33, U Mya Mu live with his parents, who are green tea leaves merchants. Father, U Aye Mu and mother Daw Yee Yee has been at it for at least more than twenty years. They can forecast the prices correctly and sells or buy sacks of tea leave. There are a variety of leaves, from different regions and according to supply and demand, disposes it with a healthy margin. They have yet to be proven wrong. U Mya Mu is a lecturer of Maritime English at the Mercantile College. It is a pre-sea college for cadets and also conducts courses for all shipping licenses from the lowest sailor rank to Master and Chief Engineer positions. The college is situated in down town Yangon (Rangoon), beside the river. U Mya Mu enjoys reading and does research on the Internet, mostly on shipping matters. He is not a fan of Myanmar videos or films and songs except for some of Lay Phyu’s and does not care much for television either. He loves golden classics by Dire Straits, Supertramp, Simon and Garfunkel, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Bonnie Tyler and a few more. He has got a younger brother and his family are supporters of local television shows, while he rather spends his time alone in his room reading or surfing the Internet or listening his type of songs recorded on his laptop. Any free time he can spare during sunlight hours are spent in their compound nurturing to guava, mango, jackfruit, papaya and rambutan trees. He does not care much for flowers or other trees, which does not yield eatable fruits because he believe it’s a waste of good land. The trees in their compound also give shade to their roof and compound during the hot season, which is invaluable as all can sit outside and be protected from the unbearable hot sun. The difference in temperature can be one to two degrees from the surroundings.

U Mya Mu day starts from eight or nine in the mornings, only during weekdays, depending on his classes and may give over around five or six, not every teaching day, mind you. On such days, afternoons are free but too hot to venture outside and the department office is also hot but less. He utilizes the time in the library browsing literature from other disciplines and brush up on latest international statutes and regulations relating to his subject of Maritime English. He remains a single view he sees no worthy life’s partner to choose from his college or from the outside world. Most of the teaching staff are also matured singles, maybe they also has not met a worthy man yet. This is a very personal matter and no one passes any comments while they do make judgments with their eyes and gossip from behind. There are a total of over 500 pre-sea cadets in the college and they can prove to be quite a handful but all are eager to serve onboard the seven seas as soon as possible.

On a Friday afternoon, a short meeting was held by the Principal, all teaching staff were informed that a group of movie making team will be in the college for a week from Monday to camera shoot senses for their film entitled ‘ From land to sea ’ and all are to assist and allow them access to classes, laboratories and plus simulator rooms. Timing wise, to take place from nine to five only. The Principal want this to be a success, as this will be a kind of free advertisement for the Maritime College and also cast a good image to the public at large.

Come Monday morning, the director with his film crew had a walk around the college compound and visited various theaters and simulator rooms while passing comments among themselves. By lunchtime, the film team gathered into the cafe and there was where U Mya Mu met Ms. San San Win for the first time in the flesh. She looked much thinner and has a smaller posture than her appearances on television. She was wearing a simple blouse and an htamein, nothing out of the ordinary. He did not manage to speak to her, but just placed his order for cold lemon drink and took his class in theater one. About two hours later, on his way out, she stopped him and explained that tomorrow she would like to have a film shoot at the theater one and she will be acting as a tutor, taking a class. The story line is a Second Mate, played by a young handsome rising actor, falling in love with a college tutor, while studying for his Mate and Master ticket. She was in tow with her guardians and the director who wore shades and in blue jeans. They all looked older than him. Next morning, Ms. San San Win was all done up. She seem to look much fuller (boobs and bum) with her face painted for their cameras, in tow with more people including her hair stylist and make up artist who is a man dressed up in a lady outfit, funny he thought. After they have done with their business, he got chatting with her guardians and learnt that they are actually neighbours. Surprise! Surprise! Surprise!

For the rest of the week, the film crew was everywhere, from rooms, theaters, workshops and even the loos were not spared. He did manage to speak to Ms. San San Win, a total of twice, each time about two minutes, maximum. By Sunday, while U Mya Mu was working in his compound, she came onto their lawn with guardians in tow. She was really interested in his fruits and he also introduced them to his family. They all talked under the shade of the trees and his mother offered them grown organic ripe mangoes, freshly cut and prepared ready to be eaten. He said to himself in his mind, that he much preferred in her original self without the artificially added on things. She had her ipad with earphones on. She was a beautiful sight, an original, slim and looks more of an ordinary girl from next door and not the actress, read and seen in photographs of journals and magazines.

U Thaung Win, her father commented, “ Should you be free after the water festival, we shall be much honoured and appreciated if you can be her guardian, as we trust you and my daughter, San San Win feels at home with you too. I have to accompany my wife on business to Dawei for about two weeks and we need someone that we can trust.”

Before he could open his mouth and counter, his mother said, “ No problem. By that time his college will be closed for the summer break. He shall love to do that. Just let us know by phone and he’ll be ready.”

With that said, the contract was finalized. They all continued sharing experiences into the evening, while sampling a jackfruit ‘hard’ flesh and a freshly cut guava. They talked into the evening till the sun was no more. He just watched San San Win and enjoyed taking in her simple original beauty. He was truly flabbergasted, and never felt like this before. She and her parents took leave only when the mosquito squadrons, dived down onto their legs to savour their sweet blood.

After the water festival, U Mya Mu accompanied her to Pago town for a film shoot at Shwemawdaw Pagoda. They were driven in an air-conditioned van. He sat beside her quietly. Apart from the driver, there was no one else. The only word for it was comfortable.

She said, “ Thank you for being my guardian. I feel at peace with you. You have no airs or being pretentious, which I like. In my world, everything is make believe and I myself create this make believe for my audience.”

“That’s alright. I enjoy being with you. I also get to visit places of interest free of charge including free dining.”

U Myat Mu said smilingly and pressed her soft left hand with his while giving a slight squeeze as a sign of comfort. With her right hand, she put it on top his right hand and held it. He liked it and there it remained until the end of the journey at Pago.

San San Win changed her clothes in the van in front of him. No sign of discomfort or shyness hinted by her, of course he did turn his back as a sign of respect to her privacy. With her wardrobe assistant, shooting began in earnest. He liked her fairness of the skin and no sign of blemishes as far as he can make out (before make up). He had lunch together with her alone by the side table of a café below the Shwemawdaw Pagoda. She knew a lot about current songs and their Myanmar singers. Myanmar movies, discs and stage shows are at the tip of her fingers. After making her make believe world, she resorted back to her old self. With all the artificial things taken off and her hair and face were rid of make up, it was a joy to see her natural beautiful self once again. On the way back, she placed her left hand on the middle of the seat, which he held with his right and she squeezed it tight. They talked and told jokes until reaching home. He felt the journey was shorter on the way back.  

They saw more of each other and she would come over nearly every evening. His parents and she got on really well. At times, she would also join dinner with them. He was her partner for dinners she needed attend and be her chauffer also. This being his additional task which he relish and enjoy. Even though there may be no dinner invitations, they would venture to a quiet Chinese restaurant and share a meal, which needed no pretences and be their selves. Driving back slowly, she would lay her right hand near his body, and chat on things they unable share with others. On her parents return, U Mya Mu continued his duties with her consent, and carried on his guardianship till his teaching time in August, when her parents took over again as usual.

During the rainy season, filming slowed down and she did more of commercials and advertisements and had more time on her own. She still comes round in the evenings and demands that he takes her out during weekend alone, without her guardian parents. They enjoy each other company and would share jokes and laugh their time away. They already were a courting couple for around six months when she made a comment one evening on their way to a Japanese Restaurant,    

 “ We are so different, come from separate worlds, and yet we seem to hit it off. Our houses are so close and yet we were so far away, if not for the filming at Maritime College, we would have never met.  May I call you Ko Mu and you can call me just plain San. Is that alright?”

“ Surely San, stranger things has happened in this world. Have you not heard opposite poles attracts? I am ten years older than you, and yet I yearn to be with you, I could not believe myself on this. So, what is the problem?” Ko Mu shot back bemused.

San smilingly replied, “ No problem, just making a statement. Who would believe such an attraction could happen? I am happy, but are you?”

“I surely am. I am forever thankful to the one who thought of an idea to film in our Maritime College. Do you know that we are known as inhabitants of ‘Hinegyi Kyun’ among ourselves?” Ko Mu resorted.

“What is the hidden meaning of  ‘Hinegyi Kyun’, I don’t quite get it?” San raised the question.

“ Well first, Hinegyi Kyun is the name of an island out in the Pathein River delta. It is now a Naval base. Second, ‘Hine’ is a word in Burmese language to mean passed the time, thirdly, ‘gyi’ is to mean big or old, and last but not least, fourth, ‘Kyun’ is directly to mean an island. Therefore double meaning denotes, island of old timers or spinsters’ island.  Slang meaning, teaching staff of Maritime College is made up of old hags.” Ko Mu explained and squeezed a sarcastic smile.

San laughed and said, “ I get it now. How people get such out of this world ideas I’ll never know. Are you going to enlighten them about our affair?”

Ko Mu much amused added, “Of course not. We are not in a habit of discussing such private matters. However, let them watch for themselves how things develops.”

They both had a good giggle and proceeded to their Japanese meal. San San Win preferred down to earth man with a simple respectable job. A man older than her matured enough to be leaned upon and be relied too. Her knight in shining armour, if you like. Even though she herself is an actress, she does not go for actors. Clothes, hairdos, handsomeness, style, this profession does not attract her. Popularity is just a passing moment in time and not permanent, and nothing to be raved about. She herself is doing it for the money because it is good and she possessed a figure that is commercially attractive and just happens to be drifted into it. She is more of a realist in such matters, and does realize that this crazy yearn for her by the masses is but a passing phase. 

As for Ko Mu, San represented the youth he’s been searching for. He knows that this youth is but a passing in time, but he is making the most of it. She to him is real simple beauty that he admires, not the artificial image she draws with her make ups and added on foams she represented in films, on television, the advertisements in the streets and the smiling face on food wrappers. To him, she is just a girl from next door. Pure and simple. A girl who is small in stature, slim, fair with smallish boobs and don on spectacles to do some serious reading. She is an educated lass who is just lost for the time being, in the sea of movies, videos and commercials, which he does not care for very much. He loves the young girl who would come across to his compound and help him with his watering and pruning the trees with tender loving care (TLC). While she tries to be religious, she is very much a novice compared to his mother. She would join his mother at times to do some meditation when she can spare an hour or two. Ko Mu has tasted food that she cooks, rather basic but acceptable. She tries to please him on the things he likes. That is already enough for him, and he asks no more and happy to grow old with her. He does not like seeing actors holding and kissing her, but he takes it with a pinch of salt. After all, they are making scenes of make believe and it was just plain work, nothing more, he consoled himself.

During breaks from college he would take on his role as her guardian and accompany her wherever it may take him. His and her family does not interfere in anyway. On his Thadinkyut break, he accompanied her to Inlay Lake for some film shooting. They put up at a hotel on the lake. The weather was utterly cold. His room was next to hers. They would talk into the night and on such a night, he held her tight under the blankets in the coldness of the room. The rooms did not have any heaters except for his arms and his heated body, which kept her warm, she felt safe and protected. They kissed and they both sang the sweet music of love. While he conducted the orchestra, she enjoyed the music to the brim. They played the music time and again throughout the night. They cannot spare a moment to admire the clear full moon outside the window or listen to the fishes coming up for air in the lake below, nor can appreciate the monks chanting drifting in from the shoreline. Came breakfast time before the shooting of the day, they sat in the dining hall next to each other, ready for a hearty meal.

The waitress asked him, “ How would you like your egg Sir?”

Ko Mu demanded, “Two half boiled eggs and lots of toast, a pot of black coffee and a glass of grapefruit juice, if you please.”

The waitress repeated his order, “ Not one but two half boiled eggs, the slices of bread and grapefruit juice are by the side table, you may enjoy the self made toasts to your heart’s content as it is free flow, and your order for a pot of black coffee, I’ll see to it straight away.”

Then turning to San she enquired, “ Ma’am, anything for you?”

She slowly said, “ Also two half boiled eggs and a cup of coffee, thank you.”

The waitress noted it on her small pad, then turned away and headed in the direction of the hotel kitchen.

They both looked at each other sheepishly and she gave him the Mona Lisa mystique smile. No more was said, and each dug into their breakfast in silence. The film crew was not inquisitive and the director was only interested in shooting a good film, while the producers are happy to make good return on their investments. A total of four days was spent at their hotel on the lake, and each night they played the same orchestral symphony music, and each movement was listened to with intense delight and pleasure. They were not sick or tired with repetition of the movements, they just played it over, time and again. He was thankful to the make up artist in woman’s clothes. He/she painted her face so well that sleepless nights did not show on her face. The only regret was while his room fully paid for, it was totally unused during the duration of stay there. After all, it was settled on the producers’ account, thus nothing to be worried about. On the trip back on the Yangon Airways flight from Heho, he sat next to her, starboard side in the third row.

She commented, “ I think it’s totally fair and to be frank with you. I cannot marry you even if you requested, and you haven’t I know. For the sake of my fans and audience, I think remaining single is better for my career till the last moment. No offence intended. Hope you will understand.”

Ko Mu closed his eyes holding her right hand in his and replied, “ Nothing to worry on that line my darling, I fully understand your predicament. As long as you are mine alone, I can wait. Remember the old Burmese saying? The best tea leave are only picked, when the picker walks slow and pluck the most tender ones. I aim to eat good tea leave (laphet thoke), and patiently wait. “    

With that said, both made their way back to Yangon, tired and fully drained. He thinks both their family are aware of their situation and remaining mum about it. There was nothing in magazines or journals and he was happy for her since these things can affect her short career. As the saying goes, she is making hay while the sun shined, and storing water when it rained. The teaching staff can gossip behind his back for all he cared. It does not worry him. Time will decide whether the teaching faculty is a Hinegyi Kyun or otherwise.

Ko Mu has been approached directly or through his parents, at times through brokers too, proposals of marriage, which he turned down. He believed that marriage ought to be coupled with sincere love, otherwise he don’t not see much point in it. Many a proposal was made offering their young daughter with much richness or beauty to be believed. Some stressed that no additional sibling, need to be contested for wills and sharing of wealth. Come to think of it, he just laughed at it. They really must be dying for a son in law while some wanted to continue their line of succession and hold on to their wealth in the process, keeping it in the family, as it were. He was not such a man, he rather remains unwed and be happy, other than be married and disgusted and unhappy for the rest of his life. Somehow, love and marriage never came hand in hand for him.

As for San, she already met her match and loves Ko Mu dearly. She found him to be understanding and patient. Utterly truthful, a man with simple tastes and no airs or pretences, which was important to her, as she is in the business of creating make believes. His love for her was enough and need not other things anymore. San knows she must carry on till her fan and audience base spiral downwards and becomes unviable and does not make economical sense to carry on. Until then, she must continue to generate money. San wants to buy a house or bungalow in a posh residential area in both their names as a wedding present to him, and start a family of her own. She also knows that Ko Mu is too proud to accept her offer. He rather live somewhere humble and call it his own. She shall have to find ways to deal with that. She also knows that living with his or her parents is not the answer either. San has saved enough money and bought a few pieces of land and invested in some businesses as collateral on suggestion by her accountants. Once married, she rather remains a housewife only and shut her old acting profession, cutting all ties with the business once and for all. San would like to start afresh a new chapter, a dedicated wife, to a simple lecturer. She just wants to grow old with him. No more, no less. This price she is willing to sacrifice on account of love for him.

At least four or five years still remains and that is a mighty long time. They both wish and hope that they able to pull trough and meet their wedding date. The test of time is the only hurdle left. Until then, U Mya Mu must still remain on the island of Hinegyi Kyun of the Maritime College.

Being a man of the pen, he is thinking of sending a short poem present for her Birthday next Tuesday titled ‘My love is eternity’.

I really want to grow old with you,

In sickness, health, cherish thee, I’ll do.

Test of time, I mind not and shall abide,

‘tis no problem, hand in hand, you by my side.

If music be the food of love, play on, Shakespeare wrote,

I’ll be in earth below six feet, love thee still, always note.

Physique love only not I give thee,

Heart of mine too, forever, from me.

So remain strong I pray,

My love is there every day.

Season may come, wither, fade, fly and go,

Promise thee, my love shall maintain its glow.

Time maybe endless,

So ‘tis my love for you also is boundless.

Day turns to nights and nights into days,

My love is eternity and never shall fade away.

I really want to grow old with you.

Withering sea of Love

At one time or another, we all tend to like someone or something quite a lot, to the extent that it elevates into love. The definition of love is somewhat interpreted in quite a few optional alternatives and characteristics according to the dictionary. Sometimes, the answer can be eluding enough. However, one thing is to be sure though, love is our strong affection for her, him or it. This love can mean from a moment in time, a few hours or to days. Some lasts for months and years and wither away at the end, down into the drain. Much regret this sad trend is spreading through out the world. While a few cases these days, lasts till death do us part, and there are and were cases, which outlast, even longer after we are long gone, dead and buried. This is one of those topics similar to religion, politics, race and life itself, there is no end to debating and talked of, written about, but still remaining in our minds and mouths till the cows come home. We has also witnessed through the beginning of time since centuries, where many a soldier and ordinary men lay down their lives and knowingly sacrifice themselves for the love of their motherland, fatherland or for God, king, queen and country or for someone specific. This ‘Love’ also walks in mysterious ways too.  Furthermore, there had been many cases throughout history, where the mothers, fathers and sons or daughters offer their own lives, in lieu that their offspring may live and sees the sun another day. This ‘Love’ does many extraordinary things in the face of dire consequences. One wonders what emotions or magnetism it holds to let us man, perform acts that normally would not even consider in the normal course of business. The chameleon of love cast a variety of shadow for each situation on all of us.

Tha Gyi (loosely to mean eldest son) is fifteen years old, and he has three other siblings, Hla Hla (to mean beautiful) age thirteen a girl, thence Pa Pa (to mean greatness) age twelve another girl, and last but not least Tha Lay (loosely to mean youngest son) age ten, all children of U Maung Gyi (loosely to mean young man) and Daw Moe (miss rain). They all live in a small fishing village of Kaung Ywa (good village) about three miles further down from Kha Mauk Hmaw (loosely meaning palm hat spirit), opposite east of Hainggyi Kyun island, in the outer most delta of Pathen river, overlooking the Andaman sea. Inhabitants around the area, trawls the sea during dry seasons and change over to working in the paddy fields during monsoon as the sea becomes too rough to fish or trawl. Father, U Maung Gyi and mother, Daw Moe journeyed right up to outskirt of Pathein town, the capital of Ayeyarwady Division in Pathein District, and requested the Abbot to take him in as a monastery pupil, to work there for his board and lodging, and in return, to teach him how to read and write, free of charge. Since the age of nine, Tha Gyi has been there because the whole of his family is void of any literacy. His parents were correct in a way, view he proved to be a bright young boy, willing to do his duties with a smile and ever willing to help out. The monastery found him to be a right choice also, and taught him to read and write while schooling in the neighborhood government school. It yielded dividends for all concerned for selecting him. Even young Tha Gyi was able to grasp reading and writing well by the age of eleven. The monastery was heaven for Tha Gyi, not only did they lodge, fed, clothed and educated him, he also got a small pocket money from the monks making his life more pleasant. Tha Gyi never forgot the hand that fed him and biting them off would be a very big mistake, and he does that not.

Three square meals a day was in no way comparable to home, where they sometime has to resort dining on porridge or gruel rice with fish paste only, for many a day when harvest was poor. Should there be charitable donations made by the monastery supporters directly to him, he would hand the same to the monks first and only keep what they gave him without any questions. They trusted him and likewise he trusts the monastery and always in absence of any doubts, abides by the regulations and rules imposed onto the pupils. Each year, during the long summer break from April to early June, he was permitted to return home. He always takes back home second hand clothing given to him and some cash that he saved from the pocket money as presents for his parents and siblings. Should he be given a new longyi, he would store it in his wooden chest and carry it back home for his father as a gift. He also make it a point to collect old short candles to bring back home where it can be melted and be transformed to new ones view they do not have the luxury of electricity.

From the age of eleven when he mastered reading, his sisters would collect or loan from local village elders, old newspapers so that he could read to them in the evenings under glow of the candlelight. The whole family would listen to his reading, as this was their only source of news on the country. Transistor radio and or television are only wishful thinking since eating and clothing takes precedence every time. He felt superior when reading because the whole family would listen intensely. Father would lend his ears while sipping  plain green tea and smoking his home made cheroots from corn leaves, pounded tobacco and small pieces of tobacco wood. Mother would keep her hearing channels open while chewing her paan and restore to weaving cane mats with his sisters helping her to be sold for want of generating extra income. They economize to lighting the candle for not more than one hour as these are a rare commodity, and most useful during the monsoon when no one can do much or earn enough. Their compact hut is made of waved palm leaves and supported by beams of bamboo and with tightly waved bamboo as flooring, all self made of course. Mother and the children sleep in a space partitioned by a blanket wall strung on by an unused fishing net between the bamboo beams, while father and himself sleep out in the remaining space.

The young man now helps his father trawl and fish by nets from first light till before noon and once again in the early evening light, twice a day. All winching in is done by muscle power alone. Mending of damaged nets is to be carried out in the afternoons when the sun is at the most unbearable. Fishes caught are sold to the wholesale buyers on reaching ashore and maybe one or two kept aside for the household as food. When the catch is poor, all are sold and only the unsold are kept aside as food for the family. When none are left, it’s just plain tough luck. Such were their sad existence. 

When Tha Gyi was thirteen, he spied a girl selling freshly caught fish on a round tray balancing by her head. She would go round the village and also to other surrounding villages until all were sold. He does not know what happens when there are left over’s. He believes they would cook it at home. When he first set eyes on her, she must have been around twelve. She was slim, a shade dark, pretty with Thankha on her face. The bumps on her chest were just developing. The weights she uses are old torchlight batteries with one or two pebbles. Those weights were never wrong as matched with actual weights prior her selling spree and well accepted by buyers.  One evening by the village well, he spotted that she was disheartened.

As he approached the well, Tha Gyi enquired, “ Why the long face, anything wrong? “

She replied sadly, “ My clay pot got a hole and I cannot fill it up with water. “ With tears beginning to dwell in her eyes.

“ Is that all? No problem please let me have a look at it. “  Tha Gyi consoled her and taking the clay pot from her hand and held it up against the sunlight, where he noticed a small crack. He then dug some clay beside the well with his bare hands and washed some on the crack and handed back to her saying, “ This should hold it for to today, tomorrow evening, come with two pots, leave me this damage one which I will get it repaired and return the next evening, alright? “

Thence handed her back her pot.

She filled up with water and found the temporary repairs held. Then she commented, “ Thank you, I’ll do that.“, picking up the pot, she walked back with her group of friends, sharing jokes and laughing once again.

Tha Gyi carried out his normal chores the next day and when evening came he waited by the village well for her. She showed up nice and prim and he took the cracked pot from her for necessary repairs. The next morning, Tha Gyi rubbed some clay from a nearby creek when the tide was down and requested the pot maker to also place his personally repaired pot together with his wares in the kiln, of course, paying for services rendered.

The old man said, “ I know you are U Maung Gyi’s eldest son. Your repair is rough and unprofessional. I will do it for you, no charge.”

He than gave his professional touch and placed it in the kiln, together with all his other pots. After some time he handed back the pot to Tha Gyi, it was as good as new, with not a hint of being repaired.

The repair to the cracked pot was totally invisible. He offered his humble gratitude to the pot maker, smiled and walked back home, pot in hand.

That evening he took it back to the village well and handed to her saying, “ As good as new. I am Tha Gyi, a monastery pupil from Pathein town. “

The young girl said, “ I know who you are. I am Chaw Hla (meaning pretty beauty). How much do I owe you for the repair?”

He just replied, “Join me to Mawtinzun Pagoda this Saturday and we will call it quits.”

“ Okay, done. See you. “  Chaw Hla said smilingly and walked off with her friends back to their homes with filled water pots.

Tha Gyi felt rather accomplished and superior, then made his way for his home and help with the household chores. At now age fourteen, he is also fast becoming a handsome adolescent, and he felt more like being a man. He does not smoke or drink but does not say no to a few mugs of toddy when offered now and then and can hold his liquor.  Come Saturday early evening, he walked to the main road and waited for a bus for Mawtinzun Pagoda. At a distance, he saw a group about four girls approaching the bus stand. At close range, he realized that it was Chaw Hla with her group of girl friends.

When close enough he said with a stern face to her, “ I thought you were to join me to the Pagoda.”

Chaw Hla smilingly replied, “ But I am, with my friends too.”

The evening came and went, Tha Gyi protested no more. This was not what he expected, but it was not in the contract he concluded with her, so no use crying over spilled milk. She was growing up fast and he talked with her utilizing the eyes only. They both knew it that they were fast approaching the point of being deemed a courting couple by the village, even though not a word has been uttered. In the evenings after his chores with his father, he would take a bath, comb his hair and have a change of clothes and wait by the village well for Chaw Hla. She also likewise bathed, with fresh Thanakha on her beautiful face and an odd flower in her hair, if she can find one. Thence she would proceed to the well and draw water that was about twenty feet from the surface of the water to the well top. He then walked beside her and made small talks till the beginning of their lane. Her friends were fast disappearing. By early June, he left the village for the monastery at the edge of Pathein and continued his duties and schooled once again.     

At home, before he left the fishing village, both his father and mother with tears in their eyes would say goodbye to him until the next year. Their tears were not of sadness. It was more of being proud that their eldest son is being schooled in Pathein town while his sisters and little brother looked on with anticipation. His mother always gives him a hug plus a kiss on both his cheeks while whispering words of her love and being all so proud. He never takes back any of his clothing except for the pair he’s wearing, knowing full well the monastery will clothe him as necessary. At the monastery, he continued his duties diligently and also be a big brother to other pupils there. Schoolwork is taken very seriously as Tha Gyi knows that this would be his passport to a better life some day.

He now is a senior pupil at the monastery, and his work consist of collecting alms for the monks from the nearby market and houses, in five high food containers. Tha Gyi also looks after the Abbot and senior monks plus helping out with the clerical work with the Kapiya (monastery clerk), which is quite a responsible job. He now no more lay tables nor attend to the flowerpots or wash the plates, pots and pans. He’s got more responsible matters to take care of. Now age fifteen and in the ninth standard, the monks still gives him pocket money and he copes well with his schoolwork. He needed no special coaching or additional tuition. However, he does punch in extra hours and burn the midnight oil to be at par with the teachings. 

Next March after the examinations, Tha Gyi as usual went back to his mother and father. The same day that evening, he took a stroll to the village well and there he saw Chaw Hla in her shapely self and glory drawing well water into her clay pot.

On seeing him, Chaw Hla exclaimed, “ So your are back again, you look grown up and what news of your studies, any improvements? “

He countered, “ Yes I’m back. I am now fifteen and in the ninth standard of our no. 6 state high school. You also look more grown up and I must admit you are turning into a swan fast.”

Chaw Hla appreciated his comments but replied, “ I’m still myself, drawing water for the family and selling fresh fish on my round tray every day.”

Thus her troupe of four young ladies with water in pots filled to the brim, single filed back to their homes.

Actually, Chaw Hla is turning to be a young woman. Beautiful, tall, dark and all her physical features are developing on just fine. The sleepy fishing village is watching which young man will pick this beautiful wild country flower. Tha Gyi tries his best to always be her side, baring his and her work. In the evenings, they would walk the wide sandy beaches or just sat and watch the calm Andaman Sea waves rolls in. It is not done to have a swim together especially before marriage, and being by themselves in the evenings is already pushing the limits of acceptability.   

While they sat on the rotted fishing boat on the beach, Chaw Hla posed a question to Tha Gyi, “ We have been together for a number of years, what are your plans?”

Tha Gyi was startled and perplexed by her question that was most unexpected. However, he replied, “ I never looked at it that way Chaw Hla. My aim is to get through the matriculation examination next year in one stroke. I cannot think any further than that. My family is poor and sisters and brother are growing up fast too. I should be thinking about them also. Father is not young anymore and how long can mother go on, I just don’t know. I should be making plans about them also. Thanks for your reminder.”

Chaw Hla smiled and continued, “ What about us? Any plans on that? We are all quickly growing up and my family has started to think of finding a suitable man and partner for me. Don’t you think of that? “

He said, “ I think it’s a bit premature to think on those lines by your family. I do love you dearly, that is to be sure. Thus my sole reason for spending all my free time with you. The crux of the matter is we cannot live on love and fresh air alone, one need to set concrete plans and chart a course for the future. We all have to better ourselves and try accomplish much higher goals than our fathers.”

Then he held her hands and squeezed it as a sign of comfort, and looked into her eyes under the moonless night, but the stars did glow on her smooth face.

Chaw Hla gazed into the quiet sea and pretended not to notice his hand squeezing hers. She was happy to hear him say that he loved her. However, she did notice a hint that she was not number one in his priority list which she felt offended and cheated, if you like. She felt that she should be number one, as he was on hers. They sat holding each other hands on the beached boat looking into nowhere with each one lost in their own thoughts. Chaw Hla then was the first one to speak.

She said rather slowly so that Tha Gyi will get the full message, because this would be life changing. “ You see, my parents are like yours. They are illiterate and follow tradition without question. They base their actions on what happened before them and hold on to them as gospel. My grand parents got married when they were around fifteen years of age and my parents followed suit. As such, it is most likely that they will make similar arrangements and plans for me. There will be nothing that I can do, say or comment.”

Tha Gyi stole a kiss on her right cheek and continued holding on to her hands. He also was at a loss. He understood what Chaw Hla was implying, but there was nothing he could say or do either. His father and mother took upon themselves to work extra hard so that they can propel him to another plane. Life as a fisherman was hard with no prospects at that, and the takings were getting less as the years rolled on by. Besides, he’s got two teenage sisters and a young brother to think of. His parents are pushing on in years, and Tha Gyi felt it is his duty now to run the family to the best of his ability. Soon his sisters will be coming of matrimonial age and he did not want them to be just another fisherman’s wife. They all has chipped in so much for the sake of love for him, and he felt that it is now his turn to herald the family flag in front of them. Only then did the tears came down like raindrops from his sad face. Jump left or right, somebody surely suffers. Chaw Hla understood what he was going through, she could not help and give any clear answer for him either. Chaw Hla wiped his tears unlocking her hand from his and she also had a good cry. Both consoled each other without any clear answers. They could not understand why fate was treating them like this, as they had done nothing wrong and wished no ill will against others. They sat a little longer than usual and both made their way home in the darkness of the night.   

The next evening at the village well, Tha Gyi made a rendezvous with Chaw Hla to meet by the beached boat around eight. He was there early and he thought it over the night and whole of the day. Chaw Hla did turn up and sat on the back of the boat overlooking the sea. He joined her and sat together listening to the sound of the waves crashing onto the shoreline. No one made a comment and they could also hear the sound of a few frogs telling them that rains can be expected in a not too distant future. He wondered why his ship withered in the sea of love. He bravely set a strong sail for his ship to sail into calmer waters.

Tha Gyi started the conversation, “ For what its worth, I say again that I love you very much and also swear to you that I have no other girl in town or nowhere else for that matter. I just do not want to marry you for the sake marriage alone. I would like to offer you a life better than this, also a small house and start a large family while we are at it. All this take time and I do not have enough money or has a magic wand to create all that I want for you at a stroke of my stick. Like the old Burmese proverb, one needs to walk slowly, to pick the most tender tea leaves should we require the best.  So my darling, I want you to wait for me. Let me seek an education to open doors of opportunity. I promise that I will be back, all I want is for you to wait for me. Okay? ”

Chaw Hla smiled and replied, “ That was music to my ears. Comforting to know that you will come looking for me and ride off together on your white horse. I believe you whole heartily, but I cannot say the same for my parents. Their wishes are my command and nothing I can do.”

“ For you to know, I will make sure your parents know my intentions should I pass my matriculation examination next year. That I promise. Until then, please take me as your boyfriend totally engaged with you. I have no ring to give you, but in my heart I deem and vow myself to you, and you alone. I am only a monastery pupil from Pathein town, that’s the best I can do, for my father is also a poor fisherman like yours.” Tha Gyi holding her hands into his, and looking strait into her tearful sad eyes made this solemn promise.

Chaw Hla was totally comforted and satisfied by Tha Gyi’s words. They really kissed for the first time and he held her tight like there was no tomorrow. He could not have enough. He again and again kissed her full on her lips and cannot have stayed away from the aroma of Thanaka on her face. They held each other tight under the stars. All their hidden emotions surfaced. At that moment in time, he was her knight in shining amour and she was his queen. They could hear the fire watch in the distance striking ten on the metal automobile wheel frame and at last he had to let go of her, as she still is not his officially.

Time clocked on and by early June, Tha Gyi was back again in his familiar surrounding of his monastery home in Pathein town. He was burning the midnight oil more and more as there are many boys waiting in line to be  rescued by the monastery. He also realized that passing the matriculation examination was only his beginning to greater things in life. He tried his best to keep everything in his mind at bay as the serious business of passing the examination was at hand. During one September morning in the rain drenched town, while he was exercising his collection of alms in five high food containers, he spotted an old Indian man sitting by the entrance of the market, enticing passersby to read their horoscopes and calculate their astrology’s.

With one hand holding an umbrella and the other hanging on to the food containers he enquired just for fun, “ How much to read my astrology? “

Tha Gyi had brand a new crispy Ten Kyat note in his pocket given to him by one of the monks for washing their robes.

The old Indian man said, “ Ten Kyats and no more, and you shall hear your future, good and bad and maybe you also will be able to take necessary precautions to avoid your bad omens.”

Tha Gyi’s new Ten Kyats note looks like it’s going to be jumping. He exclaimed,     

“ Okay, you have got yourself a deal, here is my Ten Kyats, let’s hear it.” And he sat down by the old man, shielding the rain and with his Ten Kyat note gone.

The old man enquired his date of birth and the day he was born. Thence he did a few calculations on his small slate board and also referred to an old tatty thick book from his dirty Shan bag.

After waiting a short spell, the old man started, “You will be successful in all your studies and money wise have enough, not much mind you. Career wise also looks okay but your love life seems to be tainted somewhat. I see at least three affairs and the third one should bear fruit and you shall have children.”

He enquired, “ Is that all?”

“ What do you expect for Ten Kyats, an encyclopedia?” the old man replied.

Thus the session came to a close.

Tha Gyi completed his rounds and made his way in the pouring rain back to the monastery and handed over the dishes to the kitchen. With the astrology forecast no more in his mind, he attended to his tasks as speedily as possible to hit the books again as final examination will be coming in March. He wanted to do revision at least twice for each subject and be right and ready for his approaching examination.

He sat the matriculation examination in March and did not go back to the village as usual. He waited anxiously and long to see his results posted on the no. 6 State’s High School notice board. The results were posted in the early days of June, and he pushed and elbowed his way to the notice board to catch sight the fruits of his endeavors were there or otherwise. His name and roll number was there, printed for all to see. He passed, got through, made it. He ran back to the monastery and informed the Abbot and the whole compound. He was happy beyond words. He celebrated with green tea and a guitar singing songs with the other pupils. He confirmed once again his results in the local newspaper, which published the whole pass list and requested the monk to keep as his own, since he wanted to show his family also. His request was granted. A few days later, the Abbot called for him and voiced that he was most pleased with his result, which should set a good example to other pupils. At the same, time told him that his time was up here in the monastery and to make room for other needy young boys. With that, Tha Gyi packed his wooden trunk for one last time and gave homage to the Lord Buddha, and the Abbot for supporting him all these years, and bided his fond farewell to all. He journeyed back to his village with a brimming smile. Tha Gyi recalled the phase from Julius Ceaser letter to the Roman Senate stating, ‘ I came, I saw and I conquered’. (In Latin; veni, vidi, vici, 707 AUC- Anno Urbis Conditae)

At home, both his parent, so did his siblings shed tears of joy. They all were so proud of him. He was the first boy from their village that passed the matriculation examination. He already made up his mind on his future path and must tell Chaw Hla father first of his decision. The rains had started early this year. In his wetness, he went to Chaw Hla house, and enquired to see U Kyaw Moe, her father. He was sitting by the porch sipping green tea. Chaw Hla expression was of intense curiosity and excitement as he sat down beside U Kyaw Moe.

While the rain pounded on, Tha Gyi opened up his chest and poured out what he wanted to say, “ U Kyaw Moe Sir, I think you know of me. I am Tha Gyi, eldest boy of U Maung Gyi, a fisherman living by the path to the beach. I just passed my matriculation examination a few days ago, and I intend to apply to join the Defense Services Academy (DSA) in Pyin Oo Lwin. This is so that I will be able to get a degree after a period of 4 years. The cost to my whole education, clothing, lodging, plus food will be all paid for by the Ministry of Defense. That is no mean feat and my only way of securing a degree with a worthy profession at the end, as my poor father is unable pay for all that, working as a fisherman. I also made a promise to your lovely daughter Chaw Hla that I will marry her, that is, once I am commissioned and entitled to a house. As a cadet, we are unable to marry, and marriage after the commission, also require the approval of Ministry of Defense. In short, I am requesting to you Sir, to hold on any marriage plans for Chaw Hla till I can well afford to offer her a home. Kindly understand my predicament.” 

U Kyaw Moe sipped his green tea and prepared a paan from the lacquer ware paan box and placed it in his mouth. Thence he placed the spitting bowl near him and said slowly, “ Tha Gyi, yes, I know of you and also your father as well. What you just said is very commendable and I like your bravery to tell me your terms on a platter. Like you made a promise to my daughter, I can only promise to you that I will hold on till the last moment. Similar to your father, we are also fishermen and not rich. We live like all others in the village, from hand to mouth and our survival depends on our catch and price of paddy. Should I can hold on no further while waiting for you, I will have no alternative but to wed her to another man who can pull us through. I with similar characteristics to your father has a duty to all my family for survival and fill their stomachs. Do I make myself clear? ”

All Tha Gyi had to say was, “ While I understand your predicament, I can ask no more. I have stated my case.”

He walked back slowly to his house by the path to the beach while the two other daughters of U Kyaw Moe played in the rain. He thought Chaw Hla’s father was a gentleman and he made no empty promises that he cannot keep.

Once at home, he secured necessary application forms, and with the consent of his parents, Tha Gyi applied for a place at DSA. Days passed without him seeing Chaw Hla as Tha Gyi time was taken with to and fro journeys to Pathein town army recruitment center. After about a week, he made a date with Chaw Hla by the beach. She sat by the rotted boat under an umbrella. He joined her there. He was now more daring than previously. After all, he already made firm commitments to Chaw Hla’s father.

Her first words were, “ I am so proud of you. I also think you were brave to come in point blank into our house. I truly believe that you will come back for me, however, my love, it will all now depend on how long financially we can stand on our own two feet. “

Tha Gyi holding her hand simply said, “ It is all now in God’s hands, let us pray your family survives for the next five or six years. I also have been accepted by the DSA and I must leave by day after tomorrow.”

They held each other tight under her small umbrella, while their tears rolled down uncontrollably as the waves came cashing onto the shoreline. They no more can console each other. They both just cried out loud, but the sound of the rain drowned their sobs of sorrow. The next day, both made a trip to Mawtinzun Pagoda and prayed for an answer to their difficult union. They both know that it is all in the hands of Mother Nature, and just have to accept her decision. They held their hands together and kissed as though there was no tomorrow. By the time they made their way home, clouds were graying and threatened to release it’s uncontrollable downpour.

The next day, Tha Gyi paid respect to his parents and kissed his mother on her cheek. He told his sisters and brother to be good and help mother and father. He should be back before they even realize it and he would write regularly. With that he made his way for Pyin Oo Lwin to study at DSA.

Tha Gyi was asked what service’s he preferred and why. He told the interview board that he would like to join the Navy as he saw naval ships entering and leaving Heingyi Kyun with sailors in their white uniforms which looked inviting from their village. Furthermore, he would like to serve on fighting ships. The interview board just smiled. Training was hard coupled with studies. There was no time to think of anything else.

Meantime in the fishing village, things were not that great either. For two years consecutively, fishing was slow and most were eating gruel rice, as paddy harvest did not materialize to a bumper crop. U Kyaw Moe was finding hard to fill his family stomachs and he had no alternative but to agree a marriage of Chaw Hla to a nearby village gold shop owner.

Chaw Hla knows that her father tried his best to hold on and at the same time needs to feed his hungry family. His agreement to her marriage to a nearby village gold shop owner was not wrong also. However, she loves only Tha Gyi and cannot bear the thought of another man ever touching her. Her father actions were right too. She did not know what to do. She loves her father and Tha Gyi, both. If she saved face with one side, the other party would suffer. She made up her mind that to save face to both sides, only possible way out is if she did not existed. This way, her father needs feed one less in the family and his luck might change for the better next year. However, to take her own life by a kitchen knife, she is too scared of the sight of blood. To walk into the sea would take time and she would suffer, that was not the answer either. One thing is to be sure of, she cannot let Tha Gyi see her as another man’s woman. Then the well came to her mind. Being the monsoon, there would be no people there, as all collected rain water from their roofs, less labour intensive and taste sweeter too. One day she saw and overheard her father discussing with a neighbor to sell his wooden boat, which was the family bread and butter, so to speak. It broke her heart, this was the last straw and it gave her the necessary courage to take her own life. There was nothing left for her to live for. She just walked slowly to the village well and jumped into it. Her head hit the well sidewall and she sustained a concussion before her limb body hit the water. Nearby house saw the incident and shouted for help. Men were there within minutes but retrieving her was in vain. The post-mortem showed that even death was due to drowning in about five feet of water, the primary cause was concussion sustained when her head hitting the well sidewall.

Cadet Tha Gyi was duly informed with a short letter from his sister. He could not shed a tear, he was too sad to even cry. He just wanted to know why fate has been so unkind to Chaw Hla and him. If anyone is to die, it should have been him. Afterall the soldier was he. During the summer recess, they were permitted to go back home. Tha Gyi in his crisp starched military cadet uniform, on arrival at his fishing village, made a call on U Kyaw Moe first. He made his condolences and did not look into Chaw Hla’s father face, for fear of him breaking down.

      

U Kyaw Moe looked sad on seeing him and he could sense that he was holding back his tears. All he said was, “ I made a decision she could not accept. She loved you explicitly.  Please pray for her sprit. At least Chaw Hla need not continue suffer like us.”

Tha Gyi replied, “ It’s such a waste. Your decision was not wrong, neither was she.”  

He walked away and made his way to his house by the lane to the beach. It was a sad case, nobody uttered a word about Chaw Hla and he left for Pyin Oo Lwin when his leave was due to expire.

Cadet Tha Gyi just continued his course in a state of limbo. During his last year there, he met lovely Honey Min Thu, an Arts graduate of Taunggyi College. She nursed him back to life with her bubbling outlook. He was grateful to her and thought of offering matrimony at the earliest opportunity. However, he came to realize that she was a social climber. She told him that should they be married, she would not accompany him to wherever he is to be posted, and preferred to be in Yangon only. She wanted a big house, a car, lots of spending money and a fun loving girl at that. She loved herself too much. He was just to be a scapegoat, even though he does not have the other qualifications. Judging from her talks and her actions, she rather be a fair weather wife only, take it or leave it. Even though Honey was fair, slim and beautiful and looks that would put some actresses to shame, he quickly put on his walking shoes and shied away. He was thankful that he did not commit to something he would regret for the rest of his life. 

The young cadet did complete his course of 4 years and was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree (BSc). Generally, his scores were good and just below the distinction marks, and the position he attained was in the top 50 of his class. Even though he was not awarded the best cadet sword or any of the prizes, he was assigned to the Navy, as he desired. He did not invite his parents to the graduation. He just wanted to be alone and be by himself. By the reflection of the mirror in his barrack, he thought the single gold pip of a star on each shoulder suited him. He continued his Naval training at Seikkyi and spent over one year at Yadanarbon Naval Head Quarters. Then he requested to be posted to Heingyi Kyun, a posting nobody wanted as it was well away from towns and cities like Yangon, but this area was home to him. He was a full lieutenant by then, and was eligible for a small wooden bungalow in the family line on the island. He learnt that his sister Hla Hla became a middle school teacher in Pathein town, got married to one of her colleagues, also a fellow middle school teacher. They both are now in the town of Monywa, their posting there and she is expecting her first child by December.

Lieutenant Tha Gyi arranged for his parents and his sister Pa Pa to be transferred from their fishing village to Heingyi Kyun Naval Base, after selling their house by the lane leading to the beach and their fishing boat also. They settled all their outstanding debts and with what balance small money they had, joined him in Heingyi Kyun. Father would walk in the mornings and evenings to the seafront and gazes seaward towards to their old fishing village. He supposed old habit dies hard. His younger sister Pa Pa today is a beautiful young lady who refuses to be married, and preferred to remain a spinster and be beside her parents looking after their wellbeing. As for Tha Lay, he is now in his old monastery on the outskirt of Pathein town as a pupil there, and understands doing rather well with his studies.

On clear nights, he could see Mawtinzun Pagoda lights which reminded him of the good times he shared with Chaw Hla. She may be gone today, but she still shines bright in his heart. Tha Gyi would pray for her sprit to be happy and free from the harshness of life she had. A day does not pass by without thinking back of her. They may have been young in body, but fully matured in their minds and knew what they really wanted. He cannot see his old fishing village as no electricity arrived there as yet, and the village was not rich enough to light enough candles at night.

At times, thoughts would return about his days as a monastery pupil, and recalled what the old Indian man told him, about his astrology in front of the market gates, one rainy day that September morning. Strange it may be, but the old man was correct in reading his life. All very spot on, and he wondered about his third love, as that turn not arrived yet. One day after his patrol around the delta area, he wondered about U Kyaw Moe and his family. He wishes to know about Chaw Hla’s other sisters too. They must be all grown up by now and might be a good idea to see whether he can offer matrimony to one of them. There was no lustfulness in his mind, just a sense of duty he owed to Chaw Hla. After all, he has not seen them for donkey’s years and he just wanted to do his part in helping them in what small capacity that he can. His thoughts were always about Chaw Hla, even though he does not own a single photograph of her. He wanted to play a small part in their wellbeing. He would ask the fishermen about U Kyaw Moe and his whereabouts, when he is next on patrol with his ship in the Andaman Sea and Pathein River delta.

Today, he is no way a rich man, but in much better position than a fisherman’s life. He looked back at the withering sea of love that he sailed. They were full of thorns and rocks. A few bright spots here and there, but too few and far between.