18 Jan 10

We slept last night to the lullaby of cowbells from the stable below our window. It is amazing to look out the window this morning and see a huge mountain reaching so high. The houses are literally built right on the hillside- the people are very adept on their feet, which they have to be really- a misstep could send one tumbling down the hillside.

“you come with love”

After breakfast, Daw Peit presented us with large bags of tea leaves. She said “You come with love, this is all I have to give.” I was floored- I don’t know how large of a gift this truly was for her- and all we really did was come and eat their food, sleep on their floor, and clog up their outhouse but I guess the majority of white visitors here don’t stop and really listen to these people. Sometimes that’s all you have to do to touch someone’s heart.

My feet are beginning to blister, so I taped them with Sam’s bright orange duck tape- quite a fashion statement I must say. By the end of the day, I gave up and wrapped my both feet entirely with the stuff. (check out the Chaco tan!;-)

Morning trivia:

We are one mile up in elevation this morning.

As some may know, the name of the country was switched from “Burma” to “Myanmar” by the government in 1989. During our trip, we have been switching between the terms “Burma” and “Myanmar,” so we asked which one the people consider the “real” name. We were told the original name was “Myanmar” long ago, so the Burmese consider this to be the true name. However, because the government changed it back, and the people are displeased with the government, the people choose to refer to country as “Burma.”

Peace like a river

So many use water to represent “peace.” Sitting by this beautiful stream, resting on our hike, I find it is so fitting. Water flows where the stream runs, in its acceptance allowing the land to carry it smoothly over obstacles and in fascinating patterns. If only we could live our lives in the same gentle surrender.

We are finally on the bus, for once looking forward to a three-hour ride. We are sore and tired and our feet are extremely blistered. We were glad to finish the hike but we all agree the trek was worth the experience. How often does one get to trek through Himalayan mountains, banana orchards, hillside tea fields, and see the beauty and splendor of Burmese countryside?