Faith: a belief based on trust.
Optimism: an expectation of optimum outcome.
Both illogical sentiments, each fuelling the other. Mine have consistently eroded over the years. But the faith and optimism we encountered throughout Myanmar, close on the heels of the show of solidarity during the recent deluge in my city, has left me feeling humbled.
“Do you honestly believe the new government will be able to take the country significantly forward?” we ask.
The answer without exception, or the slightest trace of doubt, is a confident “Of course!”
That most speak without fear is a singularly optimistic sign.
I wish, with all my heart, that their belief will move the mountain of challenges along the way to the free future they have awaited with utmost patience and grace.
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.
Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”
~ Helen Keller
Beautiful pics! I was also struck by the sense of optimism everywhere – really hope the country sees better times now…
Madhu…I agree with all above. Just lovely photos, and those faces!! And nicely phrased with optimism. I especially like the youngest monk. I’m wondering just what he is thinking.
Hey…I’m planning a trip to Myanmar soon. Do they have ATM’s yet? Any tips? Are you still there?
Yeah, the very fact that they expressed their optimism without fear is a very positive sign that change will take place or is taking place. Great photos 🙂
Madhu, I needed this one today. As I struggle with my own faith and optimism in the face of all that is wrong in my own nation I look upon the faces you captured, beautiful. Each of those faces speak volumes and are uplifting.
Awesome photos.
I wish them a future of freedom, health and prosperity. Your portraits and your thoughts are beautiful.
Explicit emotions reveal the irony of life through different age groups in the photos, Madhu. As Nihar Pradhan says ” to follow one’s aspiration without fear and favor” – if that could be achieved………
Absolutely stunning Madhu! I ned to get there. 🙂
Your photographs are beautiful. Even though we were just there for our first visit…your photos made me feel nostalgic already.
People are very optimistic and hopefully democracy will come soon. The genocide of minority people is a modern day tragedy that many know little about. Very complex history to overcome.
Madhu, what a heartwarming series of portraits. You could feel the anticipation already in the lead-up to the election – back in October I saw so many NLD flags waving from cars and taxis, NLD booklets on their dashboards, and stickers in outdoor restaurants, while the local English-language papers and magazines were outspoken in their criticism of the then-government and military. I hope the people of Myanmar can determine their own future even as some of their near neighbours (particularly China and Thailand) go the other direction.
If we lose hope, we’ve lost everything. I’d rather be optimistic – like you, Madhu – that positive changes will happen. Love the photos, especially of the little ones. 😉
You capture faith and optimism so well in each of these photos ~ I am still amazed my the Myanmar people, and their incredible belief and confidence in the future. The youth have attached themselves onto the future like no other group of people I’ve seen, and your photos show this and it gives me even more reason to believe in them and Myanmar. I’m excited with their future although there is a steep road ahead. Great post.
Lovely portraits!
She was amazing, Hellen Keller. Baby monks photo keeps me smiling long after I close this page. Terrific post, Madhu!
Madhu,you have posted excellent pictures.It touches my heart.Thank you
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