'Sharp' from Chackhill Estate

Jarome Lincoln entered Wormwood Scrubs, Du Cane Road, London W12, in the year of 2010. Age wise, he was twenty years old. Jarome was sentenced and convicted for cutting a man’s throat, with a shaving knife (blade). Even though it was carried out in self-defense, the man died from his actions. The actual event took place, one evening in August of 2010, in front of Chackhill Estate in Wembley. That fateful day, while Jarome Lincoln and his gang joked and talked, a group of punks and skinheads, started to voice out abuses and racial remarks at them, and dared them for a fight. Nothing took place, until one of them threw a beer glass at their group, which ignited the fight. During the turmoil, one of the drunk skinhead charged with an iron pole at him. In defense, he lashed out with a right handed upward stroke of his shaving knife, which resulted in the skinhead throat being slit open. Jerome Lincoln was known as ‘Sharp’ to his friends and foe alike, for carrying such a weapon. The skinhead died in Wembley Hospital, while he and his gang, including all the skinheads and punks, were rounded up, by the police officers. He was sentenced to five years in prison, for his part in the fight. Some of his colleagues received three to five years, suspended sentences with community work, while others got suspended sentences only. He did not put much thought on the skinhead and punks sentences.

A life in Wormwood Scrubs, better known as the ‘Scrubs’, made him realize the facts of life. All his so-called friends had forsaken him, and not even a letter, card or phone call from them. While his mother would be the only person, who took a long tube ride, up to East Acton, to visit him at least once a week, while Fridays were closed for visiting. Life was tough in the ‘scrubs’, and time passes slowly. He works in D wing, in the kitchen, while accommodation was in E wing. At least, he got single cell accommodation. He consoled himself in the ‘scrubs’, as a second chance in life to secure some qualifications. Unless one was occupied from morning till night, idle minds could create problems, which can mean longer extended sentences. While he tried his best to remain aloft, problems followed him. The ‘scrubs’ can be a dangerous place at every turn and corner.

Even though not reported by the media, homosexual assaults are rampant, and drugs can be made available under certain conditions. Taking a shower, eating, and even exercising, are coupled with problems. One thing he learnt from the Estate, which can be applied, was not to take any bullshit from anyone, and to retain one’s self- respect.  He would fight, and inflict much damage, to anyone who crosses him. Even a wrong glance or negative stare will be defended to the full. He had spent quite a few reprimand solitary refinements, to uphold his prestige. He believes that, there can be no gains without pains. At least now he can be left alone, due to nasty damages to others, who would cross him. A young twenty years old, can be venerable in the ‘scrubs’, unless well defended. Smoking was a luxury, and this had made him loose this bad habit. Another cost saving act.

Nowadays, it is well known in the ‘scrubs’, not to cross ‘Sharp’ in any way. He also tries his best not to get close to anyone. He spends most of his spare time reading or studying for his ‘O’ Levels, otherwise work in D wing, rest of his remaining time will be his sleeping period. Killing time is one big hurdle inside, suppose it’s the main idea of prison. ‘Sharp’ thought of things, which he never questioned before. According mother, he was born in Chalkhill Estate, in the same apartment, as it is today. He and his mother, share an apartment, on 8^th floor, at no.27, which got two bedrooms. In all accounts, born and bred in London, he is British, through and through. Parents were Black, from the island of Jamaica, ‘Sharp’ was told that his father was from Montego Bay, and mother from Port Royal. They met during a Brixton Youth Council meeting and stayed at no.32 Mervan Road, London SW2, before moving to a council flat in Chalkhill Estate, at Wembley. He had never met his father, and mother told him that his surname is from his mother’s. ‘Sharp’ is quite angry with his father, for letting his mother raise him by herself. He does not want to ever meet his father, while mother did say that, he is so much like his father. Tall, well built, quiet spoken and willing to pick a fight on any provocation. Something’s are gene related, I suppose.

Mother today is quite heavy and slow, while he can see that, she must have been a beautiful lass, when she was young. There is proof according to old black and white photographs, taken at Brixton. Her name is Vicky Lincoln, and works at Wembley Hill Post Office at no.325 Harrow Hill Road. Lunch for him meant, a few slices of bread with what ever left over in the fridge, or with egg or peanut butter, if there were none. Mother cooks curry and rice, Jamaican style, which was always delicious, for dinner in the evenings, around eight o’clock. While at Copland Community School, he had two close friends. One was Luke Brunswick, an Anglo Burmese, who he hardly saw nowadays, due to his further education somewhere. Another is Victor Beachcroft, who is black like him, also with no qualifications, sailed away into the sunset, as it were. He became a merchant seaman, whom he never saw again. Understand from his mother, living on 21^st floor, that he is now a Third Officer onboard a tanker, belonging to a Hong Kong owner, in Far East somewhere. Today, he’s got no one else, except his kind mother. Blood is thicker than water.

He never had close friends who were white, somehow they did not click to him. While in school, they never liked him, and he does not like them, either. They all gave him a wide berth, due to his blade, and called him ‘Sharp’ also. He is in the opinion, that white folks sucked the blood of his ancestor lands, and called it empire, and many black men sacrificed their lives, for the crown. Nowadays, the blacks are accepted into their cherished country, and again, to be treated as second-class citizens. In schools also, blacks were diplomatically given a freehand, while education was concentrated to their white folks only. He does not say it, but he feels this is all racism.  

Here in the ‘scrubs’, three of his tutors are white, but he got on well with them. Their names are Mr. Hughes, Mr. Jenkins and Mr. Cooper, they are in here for theft with fire and imitating fine arts . Mr. Hughes and Mr. Jenkins tutored him on English Literature and Physics, which he sat after one year and passed. The next year, ‘Sharp’ concentrated on Mathematics and English Language, his tutor, an Indian, by the name of Mr. Gupta. He explained it so well, easy to understand, and not difficult to address the questions under a right frame of mind. He sat the examinations, and passed both English Language and Mathematics, got two more ‘O’ levels. In his third year, he wanted to have some break from studies, thus seek the help of Mr. Cooper, another white chap, in the ‘scrubs’ for selling imitation masterpieces. Mr. Cooper is an old man with grey wiry hair, always humming a tune, taught him to draw, appreciate depth, the effects of different brush strokes, mixing colours, and how to choose subject matters, and how light played on a picture. ‘Sharp’ tried his luck on ‘O’ Level Art, and passed with good grade. 

These acquaintances made him rethink his perceptions, and came to the conclusion that, there are always bad and good side, to each person. His tutors are all inside for a crime, and yet they possessed vast knowledge, and capable of kindness and good deeds, no matter the colour of one’s skin, and more importantly, willing to share their knowledge, in a manner, the other party is able to absorb with ease. All men are good under the right circumstances, there will always be a bad apple, no matter whether you are white, black, yellow, brown, blue or pink. Without thinking, he also has turned to religion, where he found solace in the Holy Bible and the church. In the ‘scrubs’, all are numbers and addressed as such, by the guards. His was 723856, however, he addressed the inmates by their names, which they appreciated. They maybe criminals, but they are individuals too.

One day, he was called in by the warden and informed, his sentence had been reduced to three and the remainder two years to be on suspended sentence coupled with community work. The achievement of qualifications helped, plus being labeled a model inmate, must have carried some weight.

On the day of his release, his mother was outside the gates with tears of joy in her eyes, and her lips were East to West, all smiles, and said, "Congratulations son, you made me so proud."

With those words he hugged his mother and walked hand in hand, to Acton East Station for their journey back to Wembley Park Station, thence a short walk back to Chackhill Estate. To ‘Sharp’, the prison was his second chance in life, in a way, he was thankful for his time in the ‘scrubs’, not that he would recommend anyone, to do the same. The first thing he did outside in the real world, on his release, was to write a short note each, to Mr. Hughes, Mr. Jenkins, Mr. Gupta and Mr. Cooper, and thanked them for their tuition and coaching with much appreciation, and hoped his qualifications will turn him, into a new man. Letters means a lot in prison. The ‘scrubs’ inmates were at least a third, black like him, and he strongly believes that, with an extra mile from the authority, some will be able to turn a new leaf, and not be back within five years, at the courtesy of Her Majesty’s Prison Service.

Next day, ‘Sharp’ reported to Brent County Council, who referred him to Wembley County Council. There, he had a long chat with his probation officer, who seems to know a bit about him. ‘Sharp’ explained that he would like to become a Social Worker, when his mandatory community work period expires. He is aware that he still needs two ‘A’ levels, which he intends to accomplish through night school. Mrs. Barnett listened patiently, and explained to him a few ways he could secure his goal. Meantime, he can assist her daily job, and also visit some of her clients, and do a beat around Chackhill Estate. ‘Sharp’ liked the idea, and reported each morning to her. His first stint, entails accompanying her to the police station, and taking statements from offenders. The job was quite taxing, sometimes writing in long hand, on behalf of offenders when their writing skill was lacking. It seems to be the case most of the time. More than half the offenders were young black kids, some still in school, some were dropouts, and some already left school, like he once was. With no real prospects, they did not care much, where they would end up. Borstals were a place to sleep, and time to recoup their energy. Not much different from home, where their parents, if they had any, does not really care much about them, either. Some of them were in same or worst situation as them. Some were drunks, and, or, drug addicts, just looking for a quick buck, to satisfy their habitual fixes. He would have long talks with them, as he spoke their language. He would emphasis to them, about the need for qualifications. If they left school, he would urge them to attend night school, for sure, this world would not stop, and make time for them. It’s a cruel world, but that’s how life, really is. ‘Sharp’ is a great believer in prevention, and cure is not the answer. If worked, would save a lot of taxpayer’s money.

Office work meant, registering in and out mails. Filing of cases, under their respective alphabets, taking calls and noting them for her, and anything Mrs. Barnett throws at him.  If the work get tough, ‘Sharp’ would remind himself, that this life is, a thousand times better, than to be in the ‘scrubs’. He’s been schooled in prison, and also street smart, therefore, he made sure, he is not on the wrong side of Mrs. Barnett. ‘Sharp’ never complained about overtime, and he always sports a smiling face, and showed that he’s a willing worker.

Mrs. Barnett is Jewish by religion, and have three children. She’s around forty- five, and her husband is a London taxi ‘black cab’ driver. Money wise, she is doing not too bad, children are all grown up and with worthwhile careers. The girls are both married, and live with them. The eldest son works for Thames Gas, and lives in Neasden area. She attends the synagogue on Saturday mornings, and ‘Sharp’ would step in her council office, just to make sure all is well, not that he needs to, being a holiday. She did not pass any comments, however, did give him a Parker ball pen set, blue and red, for Christmas.

The communal work continued. He would set his mind to whatever Mrs. Barnett asked him to do. He spent his time between Police stations, the courts, hospitals, council offices and client’s place of residence. In the evenings, he would cook at home for himself and his mother, when not attending night classes. It usually meant, rice with readymade meat sauce, hot soup with baguette, Korean instant noodles with fried egg sunny side up, fish and chips or Chinese food take away (from round the corner). His mother was just happy to eat anything prepared, cooked, or arranged by him. In the evenings, they would sit and watch television, while he passed rubbish and useless comments, and his mother would smile and laugh, which he dearly loves to watch, full of contentment. After his mother turned in for the night, he would hit the books for his ‘A’ Levels in 2015. He wants to prove this black man also got brains.

‘Sharp’ remembered Mr. Gupta, once commented that he had a mentor by the name of Mr. Chopra, living in Toley Avenue, at North Wembley. ‘Sharp’ checked him out, and found Mr. Chopra to be living at no.20 Toley Avenue. Mr. Chopra is in his seventies, living with his daughter and her family. A rounded man, who likes to try his hand on horse racing, with a pile of Sporting Life newspapers stacked by his room. ‘Sharp’ explained who he is, and how heard of him through Mr. Gupta in the ‘scrubs’, and would be appreciative for his tuition on ‘A’ level, Mathematics and Additional Mathematics.

Mr. Chopra said, "No problem old boy, I’ve got all the time in the world. Mathematics is my passion since India", then continued "Can you make it twice a week, say from seven p.m. to nine p.m., bring your textbooks along, I don’t charge, passing on my knowledge is my love."

The mathematic books lining his bookcase, said it all. With that said, he religiously went for tuition every Tuesday and Thursday. Mr. Chopra is just one station away from him, at Preston Road. On his next visit, he must remember to by a box of jalebi, from the high road, for Akuti and her family.

On walking bristly back from Wembley Park Station, one evening, he noticed that, the gangs loitering around Chackhill Estate had gone, ‘Sharp’ saw more cctvs, more brightness to the walkways, extra lights on his old haunts, and also self policing groups from the Estate. This made him smile, the residents at last, has regained their landscape and prices must have gone up, due to attractiveness of the council flats. It is a nice place to stay and bring up a family.

During his communal work probation period, while taking an offender to Middlesex Hospital, Accident & Emergency ward, with head to be stitched up, he met a nice looking blackbird in the form of a nurse. She looked cheerful and competent in her work, and she observed that he was staring at her.

She said, "Hi, I’m from the land of Liver Birds, except that I’m black", then she chuckled. She sounded with an accent, similar to the Beatles.

He still continued to stare.

She added, "To you, that’s Birkenhead, across the River Mersey, from Liverpool side."

Then ‘Sharp’ remembered, the anthem of Liverpool Football Club, ‘You’ll never walk alone’, also recorded by Gerry and the Pacemakers, and replied, "Ta, that’s nice to know. Yes, thanks a million."

Still, ‘Sharp’ has to finish his two years of community work.

East looks West and West looks East

When she was four years old, her father U Aye Pe, enrolled her to a kindergarten on the 50^th Street, by the name of Rainbow First School. On account of her fairness, and sweetness, they named her ‘Panthee’ (meaning apple). The enrollment full name was Panthee Aye Pe. She was neither big nor small, for her age, except maybe a wee bit thin, due to excessive playing.  Her kindergarten hours were from seven to eleven in the mornings, during weekdays only. The first day, she cried the whole time, her kindergarten teachers together with her parents got worried. It might have been due to change of environment, however, from the second day onwards, she was calm, and seems to enjoy the camaraderie and the atmosphere there. The kindergarten taught the national anthem, Myanmar and English rimes, and lots of game.   At home, she would sing and recite the rimes, which the family enjoys.

Panthee Aye Pe is the youngest, of the four siblings. The eldest being, her brother and followed by two older sisters. Her father works for Trade Corporation 1, main commodity being rice followed by a variety of pulses. Her father is an accountant, and due to the nature of his work, there is no other outside income, except of the monthly bag of free rice quota and a half viss (1 viss=3.5 lbs) of sunflower oil from his office. His income is not enough for the household, and mother had to tuition a group of young pupils in the subject of English, as she graduated with a Master of Art (M.A.) in that subject, from the university of Yangon. The income from the eight pupils, were more than her father’s monthly salary. However, the family did manage to survive on their incomes. Nothing goes to waist in the household. Breakfast is always the same, half a naan or a piece of bread with coffee, prepared with infant milk powder and sugar for the children. Mother and father have a naan each, or a slice of bread with their coffee. Lunch (tiffin) box for father, brother and sisters is always fried mixed vegetables, type depending on season, or stemmed pulses with fresh onions and a dab of oil.  Panthee and her mother would eat the same at home, and any left over’s would be mellowed with the evening curry. Dinners are rationed equally, a small piece of meat or prawn for all, or a slice of fish, if in season. Rice portions are free, up to your heart content. Any rice leftovers, would result in fried rice with pulses the next morning. Good for the body, I presume.

Panthee’s school uniforms and textbooks are a not a problem, as they always will be a hand down from the sisters. The elder sisters school htameins, are also handed downs. She would ask her mother to sew her a dress, from the handed down htameins, and her reason being no need for fear of coming loose. Their mother would stitch with a second hand China made sewing machine, powered by muscles of the legs. Everything at their apartment must have a function, otherwise not worth buying or to be kept, even if free. Writing must be in pencil where possible, so that can be erased and rewrite again. Money was tight, very tight. If illness, it usually means traditional Myanmar medicines, as cheaper. Cinemas, stage shows or fun fairs were never part of their vocabulary.

After a few months at the kindergarten, Panthee started to address herself as Apple at home, they thought she must have learnt it from A for Apple, B for ball, C for cat, D for dog etc. etc. and did not think of it much. Their family is Myanmar Buddhist, and all have Myanmar names. When it was time to enroll in a state’s school, she pleaded to register her as Apple Aye Pe. She being the youngest, their parents let her have her way.

Manfred Muller grandfather was Klus Muller, a sergeant under General Erwin Rommel’s command, served as a 7^th panzer division tank commander, in North Africa and in Normandy, France, where he died in action. Their present apartment has been in the family, and was handed down through generations. Munich escaped allied carpet bombings in WWll, maybe, due theirs was not a buildup industrial area. As a result, Manfred Muller, eldest of the two sons of Herr Jan and Frou Muller, now lives in Neuhasen-Nymphenburg area of Munich 80634, Gudrunstrasse 14, in one of the low-rise apartment blocks. The second floor apartment, have two bedrooms and the nearest U Subway Station is Rotkreuzplatz, which is a few minutes walk from their apartment. His father, Jan Muller, works for the Munich City Council, situated at the northern part of Marieplatz district. He and his brother, Günter, is under two years apart, shares a room together. Both of them were bright lads, while both attended Gymnasium, their parents decided to have a family holiday in Beijing, China. They are to join a tour group, as it was including hotel and coach transport, including airport transfers. For father, it was a week off from work, and 5 days in Beijing. Manfred did all the research at his local library, Stadbibliothek im Neuhauser Trafo in Nympherburger Strasse.  Manfred kept the family in picture of Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Badaling Great Wall, Underground Palace of Ming Tomb, Summer Palace etc. etc., in advance. This was when he realized, his love for the history and cultures of the Orient. More than anyone, he was most excited of the family.

During that month in August, their Beijing trip in China was realized. Their family just followed the tour group, however, should the tour guide misses a major fact, Manfred would add his two cents worth. He does not know what the guide thought, but he felt knowledgeable and important. That excited him tremendously.  After the tour guide explained something, their group would all look towards him, he really felt superior. He knew from that moment on, that the Orient was his love and life. Manfred observed for quite sometime that, sauerkraut, mixed potato salad, boiled cabbages, frankfurter sausages, nor any German cuisine opened up his taste buds. His mother at times jokingly pointed out that, the hospital gave her the wrong baby after his birth. He loved Chinese food, fried rice or dumplings, plus any curries with strong spices, the stronger the better.

Both Manfred and Günter, breezed through school. After attaining their Abitur and Mittlere Reife, both were permitted to enter Technische Universitat Munchen (TUM), one of Europe tops university. Manfred read Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, while Gunter followed a year later, to read Mechanical Engineering, also at TUM.

Apple Aye Pe, encountered no trouble through school, similar to her sisters. The eldest sister secured a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Physics, however, decided to stay beside mother, at home. The next sister passed her Bachelor of Commerce (Bcom) degree, and opted to follow her friends to the United Kingdom, to seek employment. The last she heard, that sister worked at Forest Hill Road, London SE22, in Dulwich area, for Mackenzie, Holt & Boroughs, a publishing outfit, as an accountant, while finding a comfortable lodging at no.6 Overhill Road, in a semi-detached house, near her work. The nearest underground station is Honor Oak Park. Her eldest brother joined the Defense Services Academy (DSA), as he wanted to be an officer in the army. He likes fighting and touring around Myanmar.

Apple matriculated with three distinctions, in History, Mathematics and English. She decided to read English, view this was a subject she was most comfortable in. While studying for her Bachelor of Arts degree, she tutored ten high school pupils in English, like her mother, in the evenings. During weekends, she worked fulltime for City Mart supermarket. Her main goal, is to save enough, for a trip to London, and pay a visit to her sister, May Oo, in Dulwich. Money was her main motivation, by hook or crook, she wanted to have enough, as soon, and as much as possible. Status in life, was not her criteria. Apple also like watching Korea sit-coms on the national television, it is not because of actors or their acting, or the plot or story. She watches it, to see the styles of clothes the actresses wear. She loves anything that is western. Clothes, food, culture, technology, cars, houses and even their weather, she likes. European men, are an understatement, this is her secret number one preference, and would not divulge this to anyone.  She likes tall, broad shoulder, manly, brown hair and must be European men and not from Japan or China. She would like to be disappeared in their arms. In her final year, she dyed her hair to brunette with a slight streak of pink. She likes it and does not care what others may think. Her parents kicked a fuss and said that the young one has a mind of her own. That was that.

She passed her B.A. English with Honors and was invited to join the university English Department as a tutor, which was flatly declined. Her aim is to tour the land of Wordsworth, Keats, Sir Arthur Canon Doyle, Baron, Shakespeare, Madame Tussauds and the famed British Museum.  She worked another year, full time as a sales girl, at La Pye Wun shopping complex, on the Sule Pagpda Road. Now that her funds were sufficient, she would apply for a passport and a British Visa.

Manfred Muller lived all his life at Munich. It is the third largest city in Germany with a population about 1.5 million inhabitants. To his mind, Munich is one of the cleanest, orderly, modern in her amenities, and safest city in Europe. Better than London, Berlin, Amsterdam, Hamburg or Paris. He would rather live in Munich than anywhere else in Europe. In his final year at TUM, BMW did offer him a position in their head office, here in Munich. He turned it down, of his own reasons, however, BMW was perplexed by his decision. They offered him more money, but he still rejected. After securing his first degree, BSc Engineering with a few months of research, he left TUM. Thence, he worked weekdays full time, and Saturday, half day, at Karstadt department store, on Leopold Stresses, near Munchner Freiheit Subway Station. In the evenings, he would work at Indian and Chinese restaurants in the town center, depending on their requirements. One thing is for sure, he was not allowed to wait on tables, as he might give the wrong impression to the customers. He identified some connections with them and he would usually do their books, help out in the kitchens, or deliver hot meals on wheels, within ten kilometers of the restaurants. He gave his mother about fifteen percent of his incomes, thus, she does not comment much on his jobs. The simple reason was that, he could not have found a warm comfortable place, well looked after and a safe place than his own home. He just wanted to earn as much as possible, within a shortest period and make his way back to the Orient.

Manfred already spent three leisurely months in Bali, and also trekked Marco Polo’s silk road in China. He trekked in Yarkant County, 1198 meters above sea level, in Xinjiang Uyghur, southern rim of the Taklimakan Desert in the Tarim Basin and in Khotan, southwestern Xinjiang. He was also in the Kunlun mountain ranges. Total time spent about six months, in villages, and hamlets, sleeping rough and eating by the roadsides. India wise, he’s been to Varanasi, where he spent about a month, in Uttar Paradesh, witnessed the rituals and burials by the great River Ganges, which is most sacred to Hindus. Being also the longest river in India, also sailed seaward, stopping at small river ports up to Kolkata. Total time spent, nearly three months. Manfred usual sojourn is around one year away from home, which he enjoys immensely. He found learning from different cultures and religions, enriches his understanding on life itself. He just cannot have enough of knowledge, and the more he learns, more that he yearns for. Life in the Orient is so simple, and religions that has stood the test of time. 

Previously, Manfred Muller had done Sri Lanka, residing at Buddhist monasteries in Colombo and Trincomalee. His first handshake with India was at Goa, west coast, a place that the lost European tribe congregates, and Karela and Chennai on the east, where the food was cheap, tasty and good for the body, as vegetarian. The calling from the Orient has always been strong, and his stay in Munich was only to earn enough and find his way back there. His BSc Engineering degree is a fall back, for his later years, when he decides to settle down. It will come, but not for the time being.

Günter is at home earning a good salary with BMW, and he feels protected for his parents. Unlike him, Günter is anchored to Munich. Until he finds a wife, things should be status quo. Father and mother understand him, but will be more appreciative, should he settle down. After all, he’s the eldest boy.

Apple took a flight to London Heathrow in September, and her sister, May Oo, met her at the airport. From Heathrow, they took an underground tube train to Honor Oak Park. The ride was around one and half hours, this being the most economical mode. The walk from the tube station took only a few minutes, however, with the luggage on wheels, it was tiring for her. At no.6 Overhill Road, May Oo room seemed quite comfortable with a single bed, which they will be sharing. From the onset, Apple told May Oo that, there is no need to show her around, and she would be happy to do it n her own. The first day, Apple rested due to jet lag. Next day onwards, with A to Z,  and  tube maps, she commenced her tour. She liked everything she saw, from the seat of trains to the escalators. She saw Buckingham Palace and the changing of the guards, she went to Madame Tussauds wax works, the British Museum, Convent Gardens, Fleet Street, Algate East shopping area, Greenwich time museum, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Harrods Department Store, Oxford Street, Selfridges, etc. etc. Within one week, sights of London were done. Next, she ventured to Winsor Castle, Hampton Court, Oxford, Cambridge and Maidenheads. This was completed in another week. Then, she left for Edinburgh to meet old school friends. She toured Glasgow, Lake District and Aberdeen. She spent two weeks there. On return to London, she traveled on to Wales and visited Bristol. She also went to the Cornish coast, saw Lands End and hiked on the Exeter moors. Within six weeks, she was all done. For two weeks she roamed around Surrey and Dulwich areas.

After spending two months in Britain, eating McDonalds, Pizzas, sandwiches, steak and kidney puddings, Cornish pastries, fish and chips and pork pies, she decided to leave for home. Next time, she would tour the Continent. She was pleased how this trip turned out. After saying her goodbyes to May Oo, Apple boarded a plane bound for Frankfurt. There, she boarded a Thai Airways Boeing 747 bound for Bangkok. Her seat was 38G, aisle seat, in the tourist class. On the same plane, in seat 38H sat Manfred Muller from Munich bound for Bangkok also. Manfred booked a flight on Lufthansa, however, as star alliance members, Thai and Lufthansa operated the same plane. Manfred bought Lufthansa ticket due to a special promotion discount on fares.

When Apple sat beside him, he did wonder what nationality she is. She is fairer than an Indonesian, but not as fair as a Chinese or Japanese. He did not ask her the question and continued to listen Buddhist chanting on his ipad with his eyes closed. This was a long flight, about 23 hours before Bangkok. There, he needs to change to Thai Airways to Gaya, India. After about an hour, due to the call of nature, he had to request Apple to make way for his six foot two structure.  Apple could make out a faint sound of Buddhist chanting, escaping from his headphones.

When he got back from toilet, she asked, "Are you a Buddhist?"

 To which he replied, "I’m a born Christian, but a free thinker now, leaning towards Buddhism."

She smiled and said, "I’m a born Buddhist, and a leaning towards to be a free thinker too."

They both smiled, and he introduced himself, "My name is Manfred Muller, German by nationality, from Munich."

She countered, "My name is Apple Aye Pe, Myanmar, from Yangon."

Manfred extended out his hand and continued, "I’m on my way to Gaya, for pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya, to pay homage to Lord Buddha, and to visit where he attained enlightenment, and also witness his place of his death. I aim to stay with Monks from Sri Lanka, and try meditation."

Apple shook his hand and replied, "I am on my way back from London, change plane at Bangkok for Yangon, which is my home."

They struck a conversation, and Apple thought he seems a nice man, but his unkept beard did not do justice to his boyish face. Seems a bit young, to be that deep, in the path to seek truth. Does he not work? or, just another drop out from society. While they enjoyed their airline lunch, he opened up and broadly painted his life story and his need to seek absolute truth. She just rode the waves and told him that she just returned from a trip to Britain, back to her hometown, Yangon. He seemed quite well educated and handsome, except for the unkept beard. Manfred ate all that was served, not that he enjoys it, he just needed his belly to be always full, as he do not want to be hungry at the wrong place and time. He found Apple to be quite bright, adventurous, young, slim with smallish boobs, and reasonably good looking at about five foot seven, tall for a Asian girl.  His mother is nearly six feet, with boobs so large, that it can do damage, just by swinging it. His mother is also large at the waste, and wondered if father was having it off, on the side. Quickly he decided to wipe the bad thoughts from his mind, as this was not his business, and as far as he is concerned, he’s a good father to him and Günter, and a good husband to this mother.

Apple seems a good companion, a serious listener with reasonable logical comments. Only her brunette hair with a small pink streak seems odd, and out of place for a girl from Myanmar. Still, he’s not much into fashion, and none of his business. He must focus on his impending trip to Bodh Gaya.

To Apple, Manfred is a type of man, who knows what he wanted, and would get it, any, which way. She likes a man with determination. The thought of earning money for her next trip to the Continent, seems a tall order. She roughly estimated, it would take her about two years to save. At least, her parents are financially stable, from money May Oo sends, plus her small contribution and father’s salary. She must continue to tuition the high school pupils, for want of extra security for the family. The lesson from this trip was that, her future lies in Europe, where she would be more comfortable, and suits her temperament, that is out of place in Yangon.

With thoughts of their own, the aircraft made a landing at Dong Muang Bangkok Airport. They both have to change aircraft, she for Yangon and Manfred to Gaya.

Manfred with his backpack, extended his hand to hers and said, "Should I come over to Yangon after my Bodh Gaya trip, to learn Myanmar meditation method at Maharsi Yeiktha, may I see you?"

She smiled and replied, "I’ll like that, do give me a call and I will show you Yangon and also introduce you at Maharsi Yeiktha."

She wrote her mobile phone number on a tissue, and passed it to Manfred.

She walked bristly in the terminal, to buy a silk scarf for mother, a nice long sleve cotton shirt for father, and an Elizabeth Arden Eau de Toilette, for her eldest sister, as it was cheaper than cologne. She must also make good timing for her Thai Airways flight onto Yangon.

No Friendship Archway

Maung Myat Myo was born in 1984, in the month of March, which in accordance to Chinese zodiac sign, was a ‘rat,’ and if applying to Burmese zodiac sign animal, he was also a ‘rat’, as being a Thursday born. While Chinese zodiac signs differs every year and recycle after a period twelve years, Burmese zodiac signs are designated and are based on the energy of eight cosmic balance, that resonates at a frequency of divine equilibrium, therefore also eight zodiac sign animals, one for each day of the week, with Wednesday morning and afternoon split into two animals. Being a Thursday born, name was also chosen according to Burmese alphabets allocated for the day in question.  Maung Myat Myo (loosely to mean precious breed) lives together in a family of five, on the 20^th Street, no.231 ground floor apartment. The apartment is a long 30 x 12 feet and a loft has been added with a height of six feet, openings at front and rear for want of through air. The loft is 15 x 12 feet to the front, where his parents, elder sister, including himself also share the sleeping quarters. The grandfather sleeps downstairs on the ground floor, due to his age, at the back, before the kitchen and toilet.  The front portion of the apartment was used as a food stall, serving hot pot and noodles with chicken, duck or pork. Your choice!

Maung Myat Myo parents, cooks and manage the food stall which yield a small profit, serves and wash plates too. His elder sister, has a foreign sprits and cigarettes stall in the Than (Metal) market, and helps the parents after her work. This was quite profitable, and not rather legal. All income from the apartment food stall and his sister income, are handed to mother, who manages both businesses, and all matters relating to money. Grandfather, while alive, listens to Chinese music, and just watch the world passes by. Being of a Chinese family, his parents ensures he gets a Stella education, so that he can make something of himself. Both his parents and sister works quite hard, daily, to keep the family going. The only holidays they will get, during Chinese Lunar New Year, was three days when their whole world stops.

Maung Myat Myo enjoys the Chinese Lunar New Year period, view he gets new clothes, some money in red packets from his parents, close relations and friends, plus a hearty meal during annual family dinner. Today, they are first and foremost Myanmar (Burmese) and Chinese second. He attended Myanmar schools and colleges with a Myanmar name, although all at home, would address his name and speaks broken Hokkien with Myanmar in between. His study area was a plywood chest, where he stocks his books, and a stool to sit on, in the kitchen, beside grandfather’s bed. This of course was if they had no electricity outages. On such days, he would walk to Sule Pagoda, where the light never fades throughout the night. There, he would find a quiet spot to study and read till he cannot support his head. Then, he would head back home and sleep in the stuffy loft. Sleep sees him to the next morning.

Chinatown Yangon (Rangoon), is west along Sule Pagoda Road, 18^th to 24^th Street, including Bo Ywe, Latha and Sint Oh Dan Roads. We still find part of Chinatown at Shwe Taung Tan Street on the west and Shwe Dagon Pagoda Road in the east. The northern and southern borders are Maha Bandoola Road and Strand Road. These were demarcated by the British colonials, when they expanded Yangon (Rangoon) in 1850. It’s a busy business center, where you can find gold and jewelry shops, cyber cafes, restaurants, nick knack items, vegetables and meats, all kind of food stalls, flowers, mini-markets and teashops etc.etc. When he had a lot on his mind, he found solace at Gaung Dong Kwan Yin Temple at the corner of Latha Street and The Maha Bandoola Road. His clan, the Hokkien lived along the Strand Road and the Cantonese congregate along the Maha Bandoola Road.

Maung Myat Myo born and bred in chinatown, spent his entire childhood and went through medical college from there also. There were some nice Chinese girls that he met, however he had a duty to bear fruits what his parents had sown, and it would be a dishonor and a shame should he lost sight of that. So, girls were just viewed and he dared not to start something, which he cannot finish.

After attaining his M.B.B.S. degree, in year 2000, he enrolled and joined the army. This he had to do, so that he could support what little money he has to his aging parents, who were still operating a noodle stall. This must be the Chinese way, as they are most content when working. In his humble belief, Chinamen are most happy in the process of making money. This was most evident when one looks at the whole Chinese decedents, anywhere in the world. 

The army sheltered him, fed him, and he managed to secure his Master of Science (MSc), specializing in pediatrics. He was attached to Yangon, Meikhtela and Aungban Military hospitals, and also served in numerous front lines areas. He walked with soldiers, sleeping out in the open, and at times in a tent or in make shift bamboo hut, if he was lucky. While these experiences were humble, it did make a man out of him. Out in the front lines, there were no luxuries of a hospital, he had to attend the wounded and heal the sick by the mountainside, his duty to keep them alive. He found out the value of life, and also how it can be taken away at a young age. It saddened him to see the waiting wives, mothers, sisters, brothers, fathers and sons, at the entrance of a town, to witness whether their love ones made it or otherwise. How life can be so rough and tough. We do not read such matters in the newspapers. There were many a friend, who were left sleeping in the outback. Dr. Myat Myo served a total of five years, before he resigned his commission as a Captain.

He made lots of friends in villages, and also in military hospitals. There were times he wanted to consider marriage, either from villages, towns or with working colleagues in the military hospitals. At the back of his mind, his aging parents and a spinster of sister, sacrificing and foregoing her obligations would appear, time and again. So much so, that he also had to continue his climb, and forsake his desires and wants, and keep focus on the trials of the family. The army gave him his self-respect, and he practiced for two years in Mandalay, Pyigyitagon area. These few years earned him a name for himself as a pediatrician, and with some savings, he took off for Yangon. As he cannot afford a place in Chinatown, he had to settle for a modest first floor apartment at no.8 Thit Taw Street, in Ahlone area, which is predominately Myanmar, however, near to market, post office and close by to a hospital. By that time, his grandfather had left for a better place, since two or three years back. His father and mother still hung on their 20^th Street ground floor property. Unwilling to let go of their food stall and his sister had to entertain their wishes. At least, the sleeping loft had more room. He inspected the old haunt, and installed an air condition unit for the loft, so that they can slumber comfortably at night. His parents were pleased, and they were beaming with delight including his spinster sister.

He spent six months in Yangon, back in his 20^th Street ground floor loft, practicing his trade where he also was successful in Member of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) Part l examination, and then opted to go abroad, like many of his friends. He secured a position at Guy’s Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SW1, as a doctor, in a pediatric ward. After a year and a half, he managed to secure his MRCP Part ll examination, however, the gloomy weather in winter was something he could not bear. It was too much for him, he had depressions, longed for the sun, and donning winter clothes, and a long coat to venture out, was something he can do without. He searched the Internet, and at long last, found a position in Kuching. With his MRCP in hand, medical schools were willing to accept. He flew Malaysian Airways System (MAS) flight there, as it was the cheapest. The weather in Kuching was warm and the sun shone, with that alone, lifted his depressed heart.

The attached living quarters near the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, at Jalan Datuk Mohd Musa, Kuching, was massive to him. It was one bedroom, sitting cum dinning room, kitchen, bathroom and toilet, with a veranda.  With air condition in every room, he felt like a king. The apartment was all to himself for the first time. He taught Pediatrics, and in the evenings, he would help out in the college hospital, which earned him extra cash. He sends most of his salary back to his aging parents in Yangon. The atmosphere agreed with him. No need for thick wooly clothes, no need to yearn for the sun, no need to hit the cafeteria and no need for the dreaded journey to work. The weather was similar to Myanmar, and the people and its food needed no complaining. Even though Malaysia is a Muslim country, there were many Chinese, Indian, Europeans and others, was a cosmopolitan place for him. Dr. Myat Myo got the respect of his fellow men, and actually being looked up by aspiring young doctors there. MRCP after his name carried a lot of weight.

He also got other Myanmar colleagues in the university hospital, therefore did not feel homesick. Some weekends, all would congregate for a cook out Myanmar style, and eat with their hands.  Delicious.

On Saturday early evenings, Dr. Myat Myo would spend his time by the college pool. Swimming was okay, but not a passion of his. However, the view was great, with the bikini clad beauties, providing a great show for free. Some were medical students, others were nurses, while a few were budding young doctors. He just lazes quietly on the deck chair, minding his own business. The beauties in their bikinis left very little to imagination, and should his urge persists, he would find comfort in the arms of those ladies of the night, at no.37 Jawa Street, only for an hour or so, till he got it off his system. No questions asked, just pay your dues, no strings attached, and nothing more at all. Full stop.

After an enjoyable three years in Kuching, renewing his yearly contract, he called it a day, and headed back for Yangon, as his father passed away with pneumonia a year back. He knew that, he need to take the reins back on his family, what’s left of it. After all, he was now the man of the family. Now that his father is no more, his elder sister Ma Chaw (meaning miss beautiful) helped mother full time at the food outlet. She was actually quite desirable, being Chinese, very fair and with a good business brain to match. However, for the sake of the parents, she forgoes all proposals, and rather to be beside them full time. Such a selfless person, and he also owed her for letting herself to be sacrificed, so that he can be free and pursue his interest. After all, Ma Chaw is human, and feelings she will defiantly have.

Mother was pleased to have him back. His sister was all smiles. They were so proud of him, and would let the whole street know, they now have a doctor in the family. A big status symbol, and all would smile in honour of the noodle stall keeper son, who made good. He was at times embarrassed, to show his face on the streets. Chinatown today is full of medical doctors. The third generation, Chinese are a cleaver lot, most of them made the grade.

Dr. Myat Myo found a position as a Pediatrician Consultant, with the Yangon Children Hospital on the Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road. With MRCP (Lon) after his name, it was not a wonder. Now in his late twenties, this was a stable job from nine to four thirty in the late afternoon and need not work weekends, unless on emergencies. Furthermore, with his position, he need not do shifts either. He could now give more time to his mother and sister, who had done so much for him. He also chairs a clinic in South Okkalapa, from 5.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. week days, and another clinic near his home and hospital, at Zay (Market) Road in Ahlone area, from 8.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. weekdays also. Money was good, the income from the clinics were more than his day hospital job.

He had a hard time convincing his mother to sell the 20^th street apartment. In the end, with the help of his sister, Ma Chaw, mother sold the business to another couple, four doors down, and rented their no.231 ground floor apartment, with monthly payment to be made, and a three months advance notice for eviction. Dr. Myat Myo, also reposed his first floor, no.8 apartment on Thit Taw Street. He had the apartment repainted, and installed two air conditioners, for each of the bedroom. He also bought a Sony large LCD flat screen television and a China made EVD player, which operates on all the formats this world had to offer. This way, mother can enjoy the Korean sit-coms, dubbed or sub-titled in Myanmar, from the national television station, and also enjoy historical period Chinese movies on DVDs.

By this time, he also bought a reconditioned Toyota Altis saloon car, direct from Japan, imported through a local Yangon business. He only uses the car for his clinic in South Okkalapa, and for the rest of the period, it is in the good hands of Ma Chaw, to chauffer mother to pagodas, monasteries and also to Chinatown. Dr. Myat Myo walks to hospital and to his clinic in Zay Road. He felt content and want to do more for mother, during her autumn years. Besides, Ma Chaw also needs a break and to enjoy herself with relations and friends, after all that she sacrificed.

While working at the Children hospital, he fancied a young doctor, about twenty three, fair with some Chinese blood in her. She is of good family and has a sister also reading medical science, and lives in Inya Road, the posh residential area of Yangon. Since he works with her daily during the weekdays, he managed to win her over, and started to go steady. Her name was Honey Shwe Zin (meaning silver streak), about five feet five, slim, fair, spectacled, quiet, good companion, with reasonable boobs, quiet well read, and caring, not a bad girl, in all. He already told her his life story, and even though not really impressed, does not seem to care much about class. She told him that the quality she looks for in a man was truthfulness, loving and a responsible person, and a partner for life. Money and status does not come into her equation.

Dr. Myat Myo already sounded Honey’s parents and sister in-law to be, and they all do not mind, and ready to accept him as part of their family. Then, while massaging mother’s tired hands, the result of long years of hard work,  he gently enquired whether would she able accept a daughter in-law, and also wanted a consent from Ma Chaw, his sister. He painted Honey’s history and background, and mother started to take off her gold bangles, a wedding gift from her parents, to pass on to Honey, luckily, had to be refrained in time. Ma Chaw was happy just to have a sister, to share her thoughts and assistance around the house.

Under the stars, while feasting on a roti paratha with charcoal grilled chicken and mutton, in the only Indian food stall by the pavement in Chinatown. He softly enlightened Honey that when married, they are to stay with his mother and sister. She would have to play third fiddle, as he owed so much to both of them. She did not mind the arrangement, and was all praises to his parents, for bringing the boy up to be a doctor, and that’s how it should be, she said. With that sorted out, most of the groundwork was done.

During weekends, he would drive his mother and sister, first to Gaung Dong Kwan Yin Temple, at the corner of Latha and Maha Bandoola Streets, and prayed for father, as he was not lucky enough to enjoy the fruits of his labour. This chokes and saddened him, every time he thinks about it. Then, he would proceed to the top of 20^th Street, to enjoy a bowl of fresh water fish porridge, which his mother likes, and proceed on to Latha Street, to select a few DVDs on Chinese history period movies, produced in Hong Kong and Taiwan. He knows Chinatown like the back of his hands, and would tour weekly with his mother and sister. He feels gratified and content when he’s doing something for his mother and sister. Yangon may not have a Friendship Archway in Chinatown, like many cities in United States and Canada, but Chinatown was still a Chinatown, wherever you are.

He still recollects what the learned Buddhist priest had once said. In Myanmar Buddhist teachings, there are two types of love, 528 and 1500. 528 being the love, like mother to son and vice versa. This type of love is refreshing like a clear Spring steam, also warms the heart, clean, pure and full of contentment, while 1500 is the love between husband and wife.

Dr. Myat Myo, M.B.B.S. (Ygn), M.R.C.P. (Lon) was starting to appreciate this.

Land of Rufous Hornbill

After passing the examinations of ‘Final Part Two’, Ko Ko Win was assigned to Accidents and Emergency (A&E) Ward, of Yangon General Hospital, situated in the heart of the city. Two guys and three girls, a total of five were posted there, from his class. He found out that twenty percent of his class did not make it, and were supplemented, in one or more subjects. Ko Ko Win was just pleased that, there were no more examinations for him. This assignment was his ‘House Duty’ for one year, and on completion, will be awarded his M.B.B.S. doctor’s degree. Ko Ko Win only saw one girl, by the name of Ohnmar on duty, together with his shift. The rest must be on other shifts. Not that it matters, since he really has no time to think of them. The mention of girls must be clarified. Ko Ko Win was in the opinion that, some girls, especially those reading medical science, were a wee bit wide at their waste, and don glasses due to continues pursuit of studies, and intake of starch to have enough energy. Actually, lack of exercise or laziness must be one of the main culprits.

Ko Ko Win was happy he need not take a long bus ride, to a suburban hospital, which could mean some of his free time lost, just on traveling alone. He was proud to be on House Duty, and would put on his white duty coat, and stethoscope around his neck, so that patients and guests alike, would recognize him as a doctor. This misconception was lost after his first shift, as there were so many patients to be attended, his white duty coat was no more white, due to blood stains and what not, that he now changed to wearing a white plastic coat, which he could just dispose when it gets dirty, meaning every shift. He cannot wear his longyi either, as rushing, running, and assorted aerobatics, towards looking after the sick, required something that would not come loose, in any situation.

Ko Ko Win resides at Yankin public housing estate. Thirty minutes bus ride from the hospital. Their apartment was with three bedrooms, the largest in each building. However, since he shares one with his brother, another taken up by his two sisters, and the third by his parents, the apartment becomes compact with no dinning room. The small table in the sitting room was meant for mother and father, and remaining two other chairs are for who ever sits first. This means, we could not have our meals together, or buffet style for the two others, if eating all at the same time.

Due to the pressure in the A & E Ward, Ko Ko Win would seek an empty bed in the ward, where he could catch a few winks, otherwise he seek out to other wards, but, as other doctors has the same idea, it always resulted for him just to rest his laurels in the common room. The shifts always were overlapped, to ensure a doctor does not just leave a patient while attending. Going back home now only means weekends, if he was lucky. Lunch or dinner breaks he likes, as he scrounges some curry or a piece of meat from his mentors, and his fellow doctors. If he needed a change, he pops over to china town, a few minutes walk away, for a bowl of noodles or porridge. He was also thankful to the laundryman for collecting his soiled clothes, and returning same after washing and ironed, right up to the ward. Good uh?

Except for the cool season, all others were much to be desired. In the hot season, temperature hovers in the high nineties Fahrenheit, with the fans full blast. In the wet season, temperatures may be a shade lower, but still damp and humid. This was barring the operation theater, as it was fully air-conditioned.

Months came and went, and after over a year, a letter arrived for Ko Ko Win. It was handed to him by the Chief of A & E Ward, which he was expecting. He knew it was a Movement Order from The Ministry of Health, when opened, a transfer order, indeed.  The transfer was to Ywa Thit (new village) near Kalaw town.  While all knew where Kalaw was, no one has an idea about Ywa Thit at the hospital, and so, he went to The Ministry of Health on Theinbyu Road, and climed strait to the Transfer Division on the third floor, where he showed his movement order to Ywa Thit near Kalaw Town. Without checking with him what he wanted, the clerk disappeared for a few minutes, and then came out with a map in hand.

Only then did he smile and said, " Ywa Thit, as the name suggest, is a new village, about six miles beside the No.4 National Highway, on the road from Kalaw to Aungban, under Kalaw District, which is administered from Taunggyi, the state’s capital."

The clerk further added, "It is not on the map yet, as relocated not so long ago. You will be met by the village chief at Aungban, just let me know two weeks in advance of your arrival there, Doctor."

That was that, really, he thanked the clerk and headed back for the hospital. He’s got about two weeks left to sort out his private matters, and to report to his post before the month is out. He knew the posting is at least two years, and maybe more. God forbid!

Next early Friday early morning, he took a Yangon Airways flight to Heho. He had two pieces of luggage, one plywood chest, containing all his medical books, and the other, consisted of his few items of warm clothing, plus a first aid manual, sphygmomanometer, a stethoscope, an electric iron, and a penetrating small torchlight. In his backpack, he had all the necessary papers, some household medications, a China made laptop and a CDMA (Code Division Multi Access) mobile phone, which his sister gave on loan, to keep in touch with the family, and a pair of sunglasses. Most importantly a photo of Buddha Statue from Inida and a prayers booklet plus a photo of his father and mother.

His parents saw him off at the airport, with mother welding tears in her eyes. The plane was full, being holiday season. Everything looked fresh and crisp from the air, and the approach to Heho were between rolling hills and fields of sunflower, all looking gold and yellow. Once the aircraft cabin door opened, he felt the chill and coolness on his face, even though the sun was shining. He collected his two pieces of luggage, and called home to say that he had landed safely, and would call again on arrival at Ywa Thit.

 He then headed for the bus outside the Heho Airport. The bus were full of different tribes, including his own, and the bus cabin full of everything, from live pigs, chickens, all kind of fruits and vegetables, pots and pans, materials etc. etc. Dr. Ko Ko Win had a hard job trying to negotiate his way, through their wares, so that nothing gets broken while getting to his seat. The ride was slow and not too comfortable, while the scenery is something from picture books. It took around forty minutes, and they were at Aungban town center. He got out and wondered, how in the hell the village chief would recognize him.

Not a minute went by, before he felt a tab on his shoulder. "Dr. Ko Ko Win?", the voice enquired. Thus, all’s well.

U Chit Maung, the village chief came to meet him, with two small motorcycles. He hung on to U Chit Maung’s back on one, while his plywood chest and his suitcase, were balanced on the next. A few miles down the road, U Chit Maung, turned left onto a dirt track, about three feet wide, leading into the pine forest. After about an hour, riding and also some walking, they arrived onto a small village, situated on a hilltop. At last, they were at Ywa Thit.

At one corner, in a small clearing, Ko Ko Win saw a pile of construction materials, he asked, "What are these for?"

The village Chief replied, "Construction materials for the new clinic, arrived here about a year ago."

 He realized that, he would need to spend a few days at the village chief’s house, and telephoned his mother on his CDMA mobile phone.

Next morning, the construction of the clinic started in earnest. Most of the villagers chipped in a helping hand, some were carpenters, masons, factory workers and day laborers too. By the forth day, the construction of the clinic was completed. On one side was his house (living quarters), the sitting room also served as a consultation and treatment area, cum office. Then, by the end, there was another small cabin, meant for a live in nurse.

As the village was on the Meiktila - Taunggyi electricity grid track, electricity was available from sunset to sunrise. Otherwise, should electricity be called for, Dr. Ko Ko Win need rely on the inverter, connected to two large tractor batteries, for more power and longer usage (for clinical use only). On his arrival, after putting down his backpack, patients showed up for attention. Some were too serious and had to be referred to Taunggyi General Hospital, while giving some tablets not to make it worse for a few days. The emergency medical chest was kindly forwarded together with the construction materials, about a year ago. Dr. Ko Ko Win has been hitting his medical textbooks every night since, as no X-Ray, Electrocardiogram (ECG), nor Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a Computed Tomography (CT) scanning machines.

As Sherlock Holmes puts it, ‘All a question of good deductions,’ and no Mr.Watson to assist him. Now, only did he earn his M.B.B.S. degree.

Police do patrols, with a small contingent of men about once a week, and mails were distributed and collected for posting by them, from Kalaw or Taunggyi. He has been kindly advised by the Chief Medical Officer for Shan States, that a nurse will be forth coming soon. As he read the letter, he cannot help but smile, at the word ‘soon.’ He now was half the man he used to be, and sleep meant not more than three hours during the night, and it’s turning out to be a seven days a week job. Like the saying, necessity is the mother of all invention, he had no alternative but to train Hla Hla, sixteen years old daughter of the village chief. After three months, she actually turned out to be a good nurse and a worthy assistant, within limits of couse. Must be her excellent mentor/tutor.  This made Dr. Ko Ko Win life more bearable. Some peace and rest at last.

One day in September, in a drizzle of a rain, he saw a girl, in red longyi, white blouse, with a name badge, donning a white cap, approaching his clinic, together with a platoon of policemen. Dr. Ko Ko Win was stunned and unable to move.

The nurse said, "Doctor, I am Nurse Su Shin reporting for duty, here are my papers."

He read, then showed to her cabin, and handed the policemen, the letters that required posting. She was young, maybe around twenty at the most, good looking, fair, thin, and about five foot six. She definitively was not Chinese, Shan or Myanmar, but too fair, which made him think. Dr. Ko Ko Win, after the pleasantries, told her that there was no running water, and the water she sees in the iron drum, was carried and filled from the valley below by villagers, thus to economize it’s usage. He nether cooked or prepare any meals, and survive on what ever the villagers donates. It’s up to her how she wanted to address the situation.

She smiled and said, "No problems Doctor, I’m used to this life. I also came from such a village, even though I work at Moulmein General Hospital, and this is my first posting."

Dr. Ko Ko Win left it at that, and informed her that work will commence from the next morning.

Su Shin wore her uniform for a week, after that, it was more local attire and also ex-Army woolen shirts and combat boots at times too. Dr. Ko Ko Win thinks she got the message at last. In the hills, it’s not what you wear, but rather how much you can heal the sick. Su Shin made lots of friends from the village, and the surrounding areas, some even prefer her attendance, compared to his. She was a good nurse and a midwife too. If only the locals knew, that he treated them on trial and error basis when he first arrived, he was sure that they would have killed him. Now, it’s no loss basis, no more deaths at childbirth and no more deaths due to tuberculosis. He, was happy just to cure them, money was immaterial to him. After all, this was a state clinic and treatment was free, besides, the locals do not have much money.

By October, Su Shin already has her basic cooking utensils and cooks lunch and dinner, while breakfast was a plain naan and sweet tea from a near by Nepali teashop. She now also share meals with Dr. Ko Ko Win, thus food donation from the villagers disappeared slowly. Work was also more manageable with Nurse Su Shin and Hla Hla, so much so, that, Dr. Ko Ko Win could enjoy some of his weekends. As a doctor, he was also responsible for villages and settlements, within five miles from his clinic. He would conduct his trek twice a week to surrounding villages, and would also bring along Su Shin, when there was a need for a midwife. Hla Hla was a true gem, she manages the clinic when they were on tour. They sometime called her Florence, for obvious reason, and paid, she was not. However, he and Nurse Su Shin, pooled together and pays her an allowance on their payday. Everybody was happy, including U Chit Maung. Very happy in fact.

Now that the hill clinic was running more smoothly, Dr. Ko Ko Win needed a motorcycle to do his tours more efficiently, he checked in Taunggyi, and a China made second hand motorcycle, similar to Honda c90 was within his reach, thus bought one. On about 100mpg, that’s a lot of miles he can log up. He still calls up his parents once a week, and also allowed Su Shin to do the same, on his CDMA mobile phone. Other than that he rarely uses his mobile phone, as his sister was paying for his call expenses. Today, with the increase in technology and mobile phones were becoming cheaper to buy, every village or settlement has two or three mobiles. For urgent matters, they were to call U Chit Maung, the village chief. Only for unusual extra urgent matters, they would call his number direct. CDMA has a better coverage in the countryside, compared to GSM, but suffers from a heavy drainage of battery power. 

Kalaw market is once every five days, and Dr. Ko Ko Win tries to make it, since with a motorbike now, he can venture within around one hour, no matter the weather. He loves driving Su Shin around, and she feels safe, holding onto him from behind. They both try and send money back home every six months. Su Shin sends eighty percent of her pay to her parents, to a village near Moulmein, and he sends fifty per cent of his monthly salary to his mum and par in Yangon. Should they both be busy, a villager would go to the bank on their behalf. He and Su Shin were now more closer, and she was all that Dr. Ko Ko Win looks for in a woman. Good partner, loyal, homely, caring, good with money, and not to mention her beauty. She is a Karan, Protestant Christian by birth, and he a Myanmar Buddhist, however, they do not influence each other to join their faith. They are generally game and not too rigid on stepping religious grounds not of their belief. He knows she loves shopping, and tries his best to entertain her. Shan noodle was another favorite of hers, and also likes buying fresh vegetables. Clothes, she was not that keen, unless she really needs one.

One morning while having his morning tea, Dr. Ko Ko Win spied a large colourful bird on a branch of a fir tree, and exclaimed, "Look, there’s a strange bird on that branch".

Su Shin looked up and replied, " that’s a Rufous Hornbill, also known as Kalaw Hornbill, a native of this land, and lucky. They don’t come, unless they feel safe."

He continued, "How do you know?"

She replied, "I know a lot, what you don’t know."

He smiled and approach to where she sat. Kalaw is a hill station, 1320 meters above sea level and its population is a mixture of Shan, Myanmar, local tribes of Pa-O, Palaung, Taung Yo and Danu, plus Nepalese (Gurkhas) and Indians decedents, since the days of British colonials, who brought them here, to build the railways and roads. The weather was kindly, cool in the hot season and cold during the cool season, where water at times freezes overnight, but not snow. This is a trekking mecca of Myanmar, and can expect to see lots of westerners. The vegetables and fruits are grown in the region, thus plentiful and cheap. Kalaw town is dotted with mock-Tudor buildings and houses, and a sight to be marveled, outside of Britain.

Su Shin, (loosely translated as prize holder) and Ko Ko Win, (to mean, bright boy), with names alphabetically corresponding to the day one is born, however, this is no more the rule of the thumb today. Dr. Ko Ko Win already made a decision after much thought, he needs Su Shin’s hand in marriage. She was a beauty with brains and wit, and he can be indulged forever with her, never wanting to come out of the bubble.  One day, he asked a jeweler in Kalaw, to make him two rings in gold with a small, tiny diamond studded in. It took three weeks and was pleased with the workmanship. The jeweler charged him at cost only, view nowadays, his reputation around the region travels as a well respected, kind doctor, with sincerity. What ever he bought was always of lower price, and need not bargain at all.

He’s been meaning to drop his proposal at the right moment. Come Christmas evening, after the last patient had left, while there was an electricity outage, under the candle light.

Ko Ko Win popped the question, "Su Shin?" he asked.

She answered, "Yes?"

He continued, "I love you very much, after much thought, I would like to marry you, will you be my wife?" while holding her hand in one, and holding the ring by the other.

She did not withdraw her hand and said, "No, I cannot marry you, I need the money to support my parents who are jobless, while I do love you."

This was not the answer he wanted, be persistent he thought, and continued, "While I appreciate your comment and respect your responsibility, I still love you, and I have no alternative."

She replied in a matter of fact way, "Simple, I also love you too, and shall be pleased to accept your ring as an engagement proof."

How she has an answer for every situation. He leaned over and kissed her on the lips and whispered, "Merry Christmas, I love you."

She simply replied, "Merry Christmas, I love you too."

He blew the candle out and retired for the night. The nurse’s cabin was now empty and cold. Not at all a bad day, after all.

On Boxing Day morning, with an engagement ring on each of their left fingers, Hla Hla waked in and enquired, "Married?"

Su Shin replied to her, "No, just engaged, Nurses cannot marry."

Hla Hla smiled and said "Congratulations."

Both of them replied, "Thank you."

Now only, did Ko Ko Win understood the full context of their situation. As far as the State and Ministry of Health is concerned, they are still singles, but unofficially, a married couple. The villagers already had labeled them as a married couple since about half a year back. Dr. Ko Ko Win approached the State Health Office for a renew of their postings. They were not displeased, after all, this is not a posting that all is crazy about. Everybody is happy, yet again.

There was not much of a fanfare in the village, but both of them did inform their parents of their engagement.

Dr. Ko Ko Win mother said, "Happy for you both, just tell us should there be anything you all need."

While Su Shin’s father and mother were a wee worried, that he being not a Christian, other than that, no further comments. Case closed.

They continued a blissful life as an engaged couple. He enjoys his work, he loves healing the sick, and feels fully rewarded when he saw their smiles with renewed energy. Money meant little for him, except that he would continue to support his parents, and now also Su Shin was his responsibility. Su Shin continued to wear local dresses and also loose ex-military clothes to keep the cold at bay. He was happy with that, as her beauty was his alone, and need not share with anybody, at that. To him, it’s beauty wrapped in a rugged shell, to be opened and viewed by him alone. Rich, was it not?

Su Shin, now carries water from a natural spring in the valley, which was a rarity in these parts, twice a day.  She carries it as per tradition, on her back, in a bamboo basket, supported by a bamboo strap, around her head. She also bathe herself there, like all the girls from the village. Dr. Ko Ko Win, would however still bathe from the water in the iron drum, mixed with left over boiling water from the instrument cleansing tray. This way, he can enjoy a warm economical wash daily. The villagers laugh at his stigma, as all men, clean and wash with cold water, irrespective of weather. He still cannot get used to that tradition, and don’t want to, either.

The climate, the view, and most of all, he loves the village people. Society was so simple, yet sincere and strait with no false pretences, a far cry from the other side. No cars here and no need for it. All produce were fresh, vegetables and fruits also were picks of the day. Money was a luxury, and trade was done by barter system where possible. They mean what they say, and say what they mean. You need not look back to check whether someone was trying to stab you. One is accepted for what they were, and accept life for what it was. Dr. Ko Ko Win was willing to spend all his days here. By the look of things, he was hoping Su Shin will be in the same frame of mind.   In his humble opinion, he rather leave it to others, about city life, and do not care much for it.

Su Shin being a realist and she communicates well with them, and accepted as such, by the villagers, forthright and at times, and can be not too diplomatic.

While enjoying their dinner with two vegetable curries, Dr. Ko Ko Win asked Nurse Su Shin, "Now that we are engaged, can I call you Su, and you may address me as Ko Ko."

Without looking up from her plate, she replied, "As your wish."

On free evenings, which are a rarity, they would stroll into the pine forest, hand in hand.

He commented, "Do you know, the female Rufous Hornbill would seal themselves in the nest cavity, where they lay their clutch and remain with their young, for most of the nesting period. Through a vertical slit, the male would feed the female and the young ones, and would also reseal the nest afterwards for safety."

After a few minutes, Su replied, 'Why do you think I surrendered my body to you?'

Mystique

Life in London can be expensive and difficult, should one do not have a place to live. One way of solving the issue is to secure a council estate, in the form of an apartment of a tower or low blocks, or in a semi-detached house,  if not or in the form of a terrace housing. This is the cheapest method of securing a place to stay with your family. Believe, about 17% of United Kingdom population lives in council apartments, of one sort or the other. The sincerity of the various governments were true and pure. This was one way of helping the working classes, who are the true masses, secure a home for their own by renting or owning. Be it what it may, securing of votes was also one small benefit from this act of generosity.

Luke Brunswick, age 18, Anglo-Burmese, youngest son of Desmond Brunswick, a retired Chief Petty Officer from the once Burma Navy, motor section. Grandparents were from Lincolnshire, origionally, but since left for the pearly gates a few years back. Luke Brunswick’s family of four, lives at no.381 Greenrigg Walk, Wembley, (part of Chalkhill Estate), in North London. A two bedrooms semi-detached group of houses, and the closest underground station is Wembley Park, on the Jubilee Line, just a few minutes walking distance through Chalkhill Road.

Luke always had been a studious boy, and attended grammar school through out, which resulted in the attainment of 5 O’levels plus 3 A’levels in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry with excellent grades. He loves modern music and a yen for poetry too. However, applied for Aeronautical Engineering degree course at Imperil College. After an interview and a long talk, he was offered a four years MSc degree course. He knew two hoots about aeronautics, but was able to answer questions on Physics. In his line of thinking, this was his passport out to greener pastures abroad, where the sun shines twelve months of the year. He applied for a study grant, and was duly granted by Brent County Council. Luke Brunswick was a happy young man.

That autumn, he started his course at Imperil College in earnest. It was a long tube ride from Wembley Park Station to South Kensington Station, changing at Green Park to reach Imperil College. One day, he saw a girl, getting on at Swiss Cottage Station, on his line, and continued on, while he got off at Green Park Station, and at times, would also catch a glimpse of her, back in the evenings, alighting at Swiss Cottage Station again. By the judge of the books she was carrying, it was evident she is a student too. One Thursday, when he did not have classes in the morning, he decided to follow her and find out at which station she alights, and at which college she attended. Luke found out that she alights at Westminister Station and changes to Circle or District Line for High Street Kensington.

Just prior the exit gate, she confronted him and sternly asked, "Are you stalking me?"

He was taken aback but replied, " No, I’m not stalking you, but yes, following you to find out which stations you use and which college you attend at."

She starred him in the eye and said one word, "Why?"

Automatically, it came out from his mouth, " Because I don’t have the guts to ask you strait in the face, and happen to like you also, and would like to know more about where and what you study."

She continued, "You are not deranged then?"

He answered, "Definitely not, and I am a student also."

Then only the stern face relaxed at said, " I’m reading Philosophy at Heythrop College at Kensington Square."

He countered, "Good to know, I’m reading Aeronautical Engineering at Imperil College at South Kensington, and my name is Luke Brunswick". He said "Hello", and extended his right hand.

She shook his right hand and said, "I’m Mystique Roberts."

They walked slowly to Heythrop College and before she entered the main door way, he enquired, "Will I see you tomorrow morning at Swiss Cottage?"

She answered, "If you want to, eight sharp!"

Then she disappeared in. Luke continued to his Imperil College and cannot stop thinking about her. Is Mystique a feminine word, he must check it out, view being a rather a strange girl’s name.

The next Friday morning, at 7.55 a.m. sharp, he was waiting on the open platform of Swiss Cottage station, cold and wet, but needed to make sure she would see him.

At eight, she showed up and exclaimed, "You’re wet."

He smiled and replied, "Yes, maybe, and good morning to you."

With those words, they struggled into the carriage and got packed like sardines. He snug closed to her and the light aroma of her cologne sent shivers through him. Luke said to himself that he must be more careful about his clothes. He found out her timetable, and Luke would also wait for her at Westminister Station in the evenings, when the class timings did not clash.

During the second term, he would stroll into her college canteen, when time permitted and spend the lunch hour with her. Her usual lunch was a packet of sandwich with a cup of tea. She told him that, this way, she would not be full and not be sleepy for the afternoon lectures. Luke would rather have a hot meal, but spending all available time with Mystique was more important to him. On the 7^th of November, he handed her a birthday card which he designed himself at his local library. The card he bought from an art’s shop and penned the below words in thick red stencil.

It read :-

Life, is but an empty dream,

Do grown men weep, under the shades?

Beauty is said to be in the eyes of the beholder,

Where it may take us, we sure follow the stream.

Behind the rainbow, there is said to be a treasure of gold,

Watch, before we leap, were the instructions, and be not too bold.

Is it not a mystique?

Many happy return of the day.

Love,

Luke

The next morning at Swiss Cottage Station platform, she hugged and kissed him for the first time, full on the lips.

Then she muttered, "I love your birthday card and this is the first time, anybody composed a poem, especially for me, thank you."

He managed to utter, "You’re most welcome, and you deserve it."

As usual, they were packed tight, in the carriage, and he would escort her right up to her college doors.

Christmas and the holidays came and went, and before the 1^st year final exams, Luke was now more close to Mystique. He would wait for her outside Swiss Cottage Underground Station each morning, and take her to Heythrop College door step, and would fetch her at the same place, hand in hand, he would escort to the top of her road, should his lectures allowed.

Mystique lives with her parents at no. 28 Belsize Square, just about eleven minutes walk from the tube station. It’s a posh area, and her dad was a Marketing Manager with a pharmaceutical company, with head office in the City and works from there. Her mother, a housewife, and she do not have any sibling. Mr. Roberts sports a 2009 model, 5 doors, Mini Cooper, with much pride. Luke helps him by changing the engine oil, and also checks the brake pads plus her plugs. His Mini Cooper, being quite new, required very little maintenance.  This saves the old man a few quids. Thursday evenings are meant for shopping, and Luke would help Mrs. Roberts, by doing the groceries together with Mystique, at the local Tesco and Safeway supermarkets. Mrs. Roberts appreciate their help, as Mr. Roberts drives the car to work, and his return can only be expected around eight in the evening.  Mrs. Roberts normally would prepare a hearty meal on that day, which Luke thoroughly enjoys and would take a tube ride back to Wembley Park with a full stomach.

Sunday evenings were for his mom and dad, and Luke would help out with any household chores, they may see fit.  His mother shares one room with his sister, while he shares the other room with his dad. Luke’s first year results were just okay, and passed without much fanfare. He knew this was on account of other interests on his mind, and he would need to pull his socks up, to be in the upper bracket of his class. Luke has yet to bring Mystique to his humble house and meet his parents, due to gangs in the neibourhood, which he does not want her to witness.

Chalkhill Estate consists about 1900 households, majority of apartments in high- rise tower blocks. In the said tower blocks, the top gang was under Jarome Lincoln, otherwise also known as ‘Sharp’. The gang was black, and even though they are British, their forefathers’ were mainly from Jamaica, and others from Lagos and Nigeria. While at school, they were not ‘especially encouraged’ to keep up with their studies, and come examination time, they were given more of a free hand, as the school believe, that not much discipline in them, for any type of good results. Thus, they leave school without any qualification, and join the cues at the Labour Exchange, for their weekly dole money. Actually, Jarome Linclon a.k.a Sharp was quite bright, and all that required is a comforting persuasion to pick up on his studies. Nowadays, he carried a shaving blade. Thus his nickname ‘Sharp’ and do battle with other gangs, to be the king of the estate. This was the only prestige he’s got left, and guards it, as he did. Pakistanis and Bengalis had their own gang headed by Noor Mohammad, with about 8/9 regular followers. Their haunt was the high street. Another group gang was all white punks and skinheads, about 15 of them, loiter at pubs around the Chalkhill Estate. They were mostly layabouts, getting high on anything they could lay their hands on, and to get drunk, if they could afford it. They were a lost cause, as work does not even register in their simple minds. They take their frustration on anybody, other than themselves, and shout of power to the National Front Party, if they are sober enough.

During the college term, Luke would work as a waiter for a coffee house in Carnaby Street, from six to nine p.m., and the tips were good. During term holidays, he would take employment in Woolworth, from nine a.m. to four p.m., where the family can also enjoy small discounted rates under his name. On Mystique’s birthday, on 7^th November, he gave her a fresh Carnation flower and a sealed card.

It read :-

Flowers bloom, Sun rises and babies also enter this world with some fight,

It is no surprise, but ‘tis the circle of life.

Trees withers, winter dawns, and at times, snow showers falls with might,

It is no surprise, but ‘tis the circle of life.

To this day with remembrance, we all rejoice,

Every twelve moons, we in tandem will all rise,

Many happy return of the day, my Mystique.

Love,

Luke

On the next morning, she ran up when she saw Luke waiting by her station, and gave a long kiss on the mouth.

He just moaned, "Anything?"

With tears of joy in her eyes she said, "Thank you Luke, thank you for the card, it means a lot to me."

With that, as usual, hand in hand, he took her to Heythrop College.

Christmas was Christmas. Exchange of gifts and hefty big meals, that one felt guilty the next day. New Year came and went and on 4^th January, Luke took Mystique to the Burmese Embassy, at 19A Charles Steeet, W1, together with his mom and dad plus Connie, his sister. He wanted Mystique to be introduced to some Burmese food and culture. It was Burma's Independence Day, and they served Moakhingar. There was also a drum dance, plus girls dancing with a candle on each hand. With open eyes in awe, she thoroughly enjoyed it, and ate two bowls of Moakhingar. She took another bowl again, before leaving. Luke can feel that the Embassy’s staff, were keeping to themselves, however being diplomatic at the same time. The Burmese expatriates were more of a jolly lot, and Luke’s family joined them, in the fun.

Here again, similar to Chalkhill Estate, he was not treated as one of the family. Being not really Burmese nor English, white, black, brown, yellow or blue, he felt there was a certain distance, discrimination was still there. He did not know where the blame ought to be placed, his parentage or the people themselves. By April, Mystique had completed all her examinations, and for sure the B.A. degree was only a formality left. Luke persuaded her to continue her Dlitt, which was only two more years, and Camden County Council should be happy to continue her educational grant. Besides, her income to the household was still unnecessary. Luke encouragement was two fold, first being, she would be more attractive to the job market with a superior degree, and more importantly, second reason was, he wanted her to still study while he completed his MSc, for fear of loosing her in the real world. (He did not tell her his second reason, as it was selfish.)

Luke invited her to a ten days hitch hiking trip to the Continent in August, to celebrate her graduation. All she said was "This will depend on my parents consent".

By July, while having dinner at Hyde Park by the lake, Mystique said, "My parents okayed my trip with you in August, to the Continent."

Luke already had saving, enough for both of them on 10days hitch hiking tour to the Continent.

Luke replied, "Great, better start shopping for some outfit and things."

The week before Luke and Mystique left for Continent, they went to an Army Surplus Store, and purchased German Army pakas, sleeping bags, foldable tent, caps and torches. From a shoe shop, bought Cross Creek Hiker boots. In Oxford Street, they bought Ray Ban Sun Glasses, and she bought two pairs of brassiere, size 34B from British Home Stores, and a pair of gray woolen slacks at Miss Selfridge, size 25. The rest he had, digital camera, back packs, maps, hikers guide, medicines etc. etc. and made their plans for the impending hike.

Luke went to see Mystique parents before their trip.

Mr. Roberts said, "Luke, she’s all that we got, and we don’t want to make her life miserable, so don’t do anything she would regret afterwards."

Luke knew what he meant and shook his hand and adding, "Sir, I know what you mean, and I do take full responsibility, and will make sure Mystique don’t regret anything, afterwards."

They smiled and Luke took a tube train back to Wembley Park.

Come Friday morning at six a.m., Luke and Mystique commenced their hiking trip by hopping onto a train, from St. Pancreas Station to Paris, Gare du Nord in less than three hours. This eliminated them trying to hitch a ride, from Calais to Paris. On reaching there, they stayed at Regent Hostel at 37, Boulevard Rochehouart. For the next two days, did a tour of Arc De Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, The Bastille, Norte de Dame, Champs-Elysees, Place de la Concorde, Montmartre and also strolled by the Seine. 

On the third day in Paris, The Louvre was scheduled on its own, as too much to be absorbed there. This being the largest museum in the world, Luke and Mystique decided to have lunch there also. Code of Hammurabi stone tablet was one of the oldest Babylonian law of Iraq on record, dating back to 1772 BC. Statuettes such as, Winged Victory of Samothrace, Venus de Melo and Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss, was a sight to see. One does not realize the finest, until you are in front of them. Paintings were also galore. The coronation of Napoleon by Jacques-Lewis David, Virgin of the rocks by Leonardo da Vinci, The raft of the Mesuda by Theodore Gericault, Liberty leading the people by Eugene Delacroix and many, much more are to be viewed in awe.

Mystique stood in line and watched the painting, oil on canvas of Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, for quite a long time. It took so long that Luke had to nudge her to move on. Came lunch time, Luke guided Mystique to a beautiful garden, where after seating her on the bench, he took out the two plain white gold rings and offered her one.

He said, "Mystique, will you be my girl, the only girl, as my future bride and as evidenced by this white gold ring, I do declare that my love for you shall never tarnish. Will you accept this engagement ring?"

She was shocked and her eyes started to water and replied, "Yes, Yes, Yes, my darling Luke, I accept your engagement ring and shall wear evidencing it, your wife to be."

While he slipped it on her left finger, she kissed him again and again, full on his lips, while sobbing. Luke also told her that he shall also wear the duplicate on his left finger, and likewise shall be faithful to her, for always. For all to see and witness, Mystique and Luke are now engaged. It cost him 489 pounds for the rings from Farooq Jewelers on Wembley High Street. She hung onto him through out the lunch. Luke just realized that it took him two years to arrive at this stage, and wondered what his and her parents would say, about this private engagement event, which was planned secretly six months ahead.

He told her that comparing Mona Lisa’s painting with her, he found her to be more beautiful.

Mystique said, "My parents named me Mystique, because I would gaze out without talking for long periods, that’s why I viewed the painting at length to see the connection, if any."

Luke continued, "Mystique, you are more beautiful plus with brains, and a B.A. degree. Furthermore, you are blessed with a sophisticated look, caring and the best partner, I will ever have."

She smiled and said, "I’m blushing but I like it, you may continue, and I can get used to this", they smiled at each other and kissed again and again.

By evening, they dinnered on French loaf with horsemeat (so the man from café said), and according to the comments of the hikers they met during the afternoon, getting a free lift in France can be quite taxing, thus decided and packed their backpacks for the onward journey South by train. They boarded TGV train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Nice Ville just before midnight, as they wish to start at Nice, by early morning. They slept arms in arms in the second-class carriage, and later on, Mystique slept on Luke’s lap, during the six hours journey there. The train was a double-decker Duplex train. Interesting, but they saw nothing in the dark of the night. Luke gave Marseille a miss, as this was another big sprawling town, similar to London or any other big city.

Nice, in the morning, was quiet. They both breakfasted on buns with small pieces of bitten Cadbury chocolate inside, plus coin operated machine hot coffee. The sun was warm, while the Mediterranean Sea water was cold. The scene was picture perfect, but without trunks and bikinis, they just feasted with their eyes and evidenced with their digital camera. After satisfying Nice, both of them decided to walk to Monte Carlo and marveled Place de Casino, where James Bond supposed to have gambled and also filmed Casino Royale. Hotel de Paris where James Bond stayed was also beautiful, but decided to take a local bus into Italy before night fall. At Imperia, both marveled the various flowers and ate pasta, prepared with olive oil and meat for dinner. Pasta there and olive oil were famous. Luke and Mystique walked just outside of Imperia, to a rolling hill area and camped out, in their tent and slept in sleeping bags. It was cold and had to do their business in the field, while keeping a watchful eye for prowling farmers.

From Imperia, they hitched a ride on an Italian container truck bound for Genoa, then on to Milan, on a Polish VW van, full of students. In Milan, the couple saw the Duomo di Millano, and had their dinner in a roadside café, and thence proceeded to Como on the back of a local vegetable truck. By the time they were there, it was dark. Both found their way to Menaggio Youth Hostel la Primula, by the shore of Lake Como. All it had was a twin sharing room, which was sized by Luke. No comment.

That night, all washings were done for the first time since the trip, including their jeans and undies they were wearing. After cleaning themselves properly, Luke got into bed in his birthday suit, while Mystique hung clothes, on the central heater. Soon, Mystique also joined Luke, really tired. Luke had never seen Mystique in the flesh, and it was a sight he would treasure. She was slim, body was firm including her tummy, her breasts were not large and sagging, but just nice and the nipples were pointed with a small circle around it. Mystique hair was loose and undone, and her skin was silky supporting a pretty face. As she quietly slipped into the bed, he could make out in the dark, that the window curtains were not drawn. He reached out and held her in his arms and for the first time, the sensation of cupping her firm breasts felt really soft to his touch. They made love, and soon he was like a thirstily camel that came in from the dry desert. Even though Mystique was tired, she felt a renewed energy and rode the high waves of a love song.

They lost all senses of time, until a knock enquiring whether they’ll be eating breakfast. They quickly donned their damp jeans and jumpers and sailed into the cafeteria. It was a rather late breakfast, all alone by themselves, had their cups of coffee and ate croissants and baguettes with jams, marmalade, and butter. After all, the room was ‘including breakfast’. Consuming all that can be eaten on the table, they excused themselves back to their room and hung the damp clothes back on the central heater. They continued their shuteyes, not before they played ‘Music of the Night’, yet again. By noon, all clothing were dried and after uniformed in their jeans and warm jumpers plus their pakas, Luke and Mystique made their salutations and headed back for the road.

They both toured around Lake Como and saw some cozy camping areas, which they were thankful not to have entertained. Luke and Mystique chuckled, hand in hand, made their way to E35 highway to continue on to Zurich. An old Swiss couple in their Mercedes 260, gave them a lift up to their destination. Luke never felt so comfortable on his bum and back. The old man works in a bank there. Must buy one, if he can afford it, Luke thought.  On the route to Zurich, the old couple was quite taken by them, and offered cake and coffee at Lake Lucerne. By late evening, they exchanged addresses and said their good byes at Zurich.  After feasting on love and fresh air, they onward marched by way of E41 to Stuttgart, through the night per kind favour of a German lorry driver, who was happy to exercise his English. Past midnight, they spent the night by the shelter of a housing complex stairway (which, they don’t know where), in their sleeping bags. It was a warm shelter from the weather, and the next morning, they were rudely awakened by a nudge of a shoe. They cleaned and freshened by the courtesy of the local authorities in toilets, and with the direction of their guidebook, paid courtesy calls to the city’s greats. Knowing the French politeness towards the British, Luke and Mystique boarded a train from Stuttgart back to Paris in the afternoon. Once in Paris, without further ado, sought a train back to St. Pancreas, London. In the early evening, they were on the tube for Swiss Cottage.

Around seven p.m., Luke rang the doorbell and Mr. Roberts answered the door. Luke handed a bottle of sherry and a box of Cuban cigars, while extended his hand to him and said "Don’t worry Sir, she is in a good way, and nothing there to be regretted."

Mystique pinched Luke’s back and she was now again in good hands and safe. With that, he boarded the tube to Wembley Park Station, and walked slowly back, in the direction of Greenrigg Walk. At home, he handed a carton of State Express filter king cigarettes to his father, and a bottle of sherry to his mother. God only knows, how tired he was.

The next day, mother told him that while he was away, there was a fight in front of the estate, and one of the punk’s throat was slited open. As such, the police rounded both the black gang, and all the punks plus skinheads. Now, the residents have reclaimed their estate and park. True enough, kids and their mums were at the playground, elderly, housewives and lovers stroll the walkways and joggers can be spotted early in the mornings and evenings. Chackhill was safe again.

One evening, during a family dinner, Luke noticed that all eyes were upon his white gold ring, on his second left finger. Slowly he broke the news, that he was now engaged to Mystique, which took place in Paris, during this hiking trip to the Continent with her. Father was non-committal.

But mother commented, "We’re all happy for you, do let us know if you need anything."

Connie just said "Congratulations."

Luke just said, "I wanted a private engagement with no hoo-hars."

The subject was closed.

Connie got married in October to Brian Watts, Assistant Engineer from the stockyard. One of father’s budding assistants. It was a civil marriage at the Wembley Council Marriage Registrar, and attended by Brian’s parents and theirs, witnessed also by Mystique. Connie moved to live with Brian, staying in Willesden. Mother moved back to father’s room so that Luke could have a room to himself. All worked out rather nicely.

On 7^th November, Luke gave Mystique two fresh carnations and a sealed card.

Which reads :-

Cleopatra, Venus de Milo, Mona Lisa and Grace Kelly,

Including Hercules, Mark Antony, Statute of David and even George Clooney.

Wheels through history, herald such as them, of a beauty or desirable.

While Medusa and Queen Ayesha have ideas which may not be too amicable.

Like to turn me to stone or are you, she, who must be obeyed?

I know that you are not,

Beauty Yes!, willed as them, I’m sure, that you do not sought.

Mystique, many happy return of the day.

Love & xxx,

Luke

Next morning, Mystique gave Luke a long kiss on the mouth and muttered, "I love you and your Card and shall always be my treasured possession."

He held her hand, and as usual escorted to her college before rushing off to Imperil College. Mystique got her B.A., and now continued for her DLitt degree.

Luke’s third year at Imperil College was more study orientated, and he wanted good grades for his Master’s. One evening at Mystique’s place, while having a cup of tea, Mr. Roberts said, "Luke, tell me about yourself."

He countered, "Certainly Sir, I was born in 1991 in no.18 Chesterfield Road, near Kilburn, an Anglo-Burmese, British by nationality." "My father is Desmond Brunswick, English, from Lincolnshire, who now works as a Senior Engineer for London Transport in the stockyard at Wembley Park, and mother name is Ma Mya Khin, an Anglo-Burmese, repatriated back to London in 1981." Luke then continued, "I now am studying at Imperil College for my MSc in aeronautical engineering and hope to graduate next year."

Mr. Roberts concluded, "I’m not a decrementing person, but I admire a working man, thank you."

Luke, for sake of clarity added, " And we all now live in a council house in Greenrigg Walk, Wembley, that’s part of Chackhill Estate."

Mr. Roberts replied, "I don’t care where you live, I started life as a salesman."

Mrs. Roberts added, "Bully for you Luke, we are so proud of you."

Mystique jumped in and said, "All these questions, because they saw the ring on my left second finger."

All laughed, and thus, the interview was finally over.

At college, Luke found the girls not to his taste, or can be said that he is not from theirs. Luke feels they all must be related to Count Dracula, with six inches fangs seeking suitable candidates with fat bank accounts, or possible future men who are likely to prove, able to dig into large amount of cash. As far as he was concerned, they don’t come into his frame of pictures, he felt sorry for the prey they would eye for. His grades improved since first year and he intends to continue the same. He also stopped working during weekends, as he wanted to concentrate and allow more time to his studies.

On the eve of his final year in July, Mystique told him that her parents were taking a week holiday during the last week of August at Blackpoll, Butlin’s holiday camp. They liked that, suppose a very British thing to do, Luke thought. That week, he kept Mystique accompanied and stayed with her, at their house. He is no more a thirsty camel, now, a more dignified dog on heat. He savored his week there and even more focused to charge his last year with all his might, to secure a passport, the way out from Chackhill Estate.

It was not only his final year, it also meant for Mystique to secure her DLitt. Months came and went, and on her birthday on 7^th November, he gave the usual two fresh carnations and a sealed card.

Which read :-

A salad of Burmese culture and Buddhist thoughts,

It is said, first being knowledge, then wealth and followed by religion.

Spring is almost over, and walk we shall, boldly into the next court.

But till then, hold on tight, the battle for sure shall be fought.

Nelson hoisted ‘England expects every man to do his duty’,

That we’ll do, so Mystique, my queen, my beauty,

‘tis the final leg, hold on, and many happy return of the day.

Love & xxx,

Luke.

The next morning, Mystique ran into Luke’s waiting arms and whispered, "Thank you for the poem. I love it, and don’t really care two hoots what others may think."

They kissed and did his duty of navigating her safely to Heythrop College doors. Autumn came, than followed by winter and spring. Before the summer break, Luke sat his final examinations. Unofficially, word did get around that he got Honors. That made him very happy. Mystique also being a brainy girl, secured her DLitt in Philosophy.

By September 2013, one Sunday afternoon, Luke together with his father and mother, made a call on the Roberts residence at Swiss Cottage.

During the course of the afternoon, Desmond Brunswick, his father, turned on to Mr and Mrs. Roberts and said, " I would be grateful for your consent, towards my son Luke matrimony, with your lovely daughter Mystique, and I can vouch that Luke, my son, is a grand lad."

Before Mr. Roberts can open his mouth, Mrs. Roberts smiled and replied, "There is nothing from our side to disapprove your request, but the final word is still Mystique."

Their daughter Mystique placed the tray on the side table and said "Yes, I would love to marry Luke Brunswick."

So the contract was finalized. He did not even have to utter a single word. That’s rich.

In 2013 October, second Sunday afternoon, the marriage of Mystique Roberts with Luke Brunswick took place at Holy Trinity Church, opposite Finchley Road Underground tube station. The reception was held in Best Western Swiss Cottage Hotel, at 4 Adamson Road, also in Swiss Cottage area, not too far from the Roberts residence. It was a small reception, attended by immediate and close relatives plus some extra close friends, not more than twenty people in all. After the wedding, Mystique moved in with Luke at no.381 Greenrigg Walk, Wembley. A room of their own and their house came alive again. Mystique did not mind the neighborhood.

After getting hitched, Luke reported for work at Heathrow Airport, Rolls Royce Division. They interviewed him just after his finals and he reluctantly accepted their offer to work for them at Changi Singapore Airport. The contract was a year and a half to two years at their option. The rest depended on his performance. Due to his reluctance, more money was offered on the table. November and December was spent on the job training, and what was expected of him and to report for duty at Changi Singapore, not later than end of January. On the 7^th of November, he, as usual gave Mystique, two fresh carnations plus a card.

It read :-

Part one is all over and so let part two be rolled,

I’ve got a job with Rolls Royce, Singapore, and let us be bold.

Does Mrs. Mystique Brunswick have shadow of a doubt?

About flying together and take residence to work down South.

Mystique, many happy return of the day.

Love & xxx,

Luke

It was a simple poem or rhyme, to let her be in the picture, and seek her views. Luke placed the card on the pillow before he left for work.

On his return home, she held him tight and whispered, "Yes, Yes my darling, I’ll follow where ever you go."

Then kissed him with authentic delight, again and again.

This prompted her to search the Internet, high and low, for a position in Singapore. On Christmas day morning, she surprised him by letting him know, that she also has a job at the British Council, Singapore as a Librarian, and to report at their good offices, latest by last day of January. They were a happy couple. After briefing both their parents, Luke and Mystique flew to Singapore.

At Heathrow, Luke said "I’ve never flown before."

Mystique countered, "Nether have I."

They laughed and boarded their aircraft like two kids on an excursion. 

On the jet plane, he lodged on his earpieces and listened to the music of Dire Straits, Supertramp and Phil Collins as he read the poems of Tom Leonard, Alan Baker, Edwin Morgan etc. etc. on his ipad, while Mystique slept holding his hand.

In Singapore, they found an apartment at the The Bayshore Condominium, at no.29 Bayshore Road, Tower 3A, with a partial view of the sea, from the 26^th floor, sitting room. It ‘s only ten minutes from Changi Airport. Even though it was only two bedrooms, they could not afford with their money they had. As such, Rolls Royce bought the apartment in their names with fifty percent of his monthly salary to be paid back to them, until fully recovered, interest free. They paid all their savings plus what their parents gave, towards the purchase. Rolls Royce must have wanted him, pretty badly. They hung on to the original deeds, while they did give him a photocopy. He showed the photocopy deeds to Mystique. The apartment deeds were in the names of Mr. Luke Brunswick and Mrs. Mystique Brunswick. She liked it, smiled, and kissed him.

Singapore was the first place, Luke felt no kind of discrimination. His boss was English, while the colleagues are a mix lot of Polish, Indian, Malaysian, Chinese Singaporean while he being British, Anglo-Burmese. Choosing to work for Rolls Royce might have been his best decision.

Luke also enjoys a dip in the pool before dinner and both participated the ritual. Life here is better than Monte Carlo, Nice, Paris, London or New York, rolled into one. While he splashed about, Luke waved and yelled out ………..                                 " M Y S T I Q U E ?"