Give Burma a chance

A true friend is someone who dares tell his friend the harsh truth. For over six decades a great nation has been torn by civil war, political unrest, suppression, ethnic conflict and sanctions. Retaliation, vengeance and violence breed hatred and suffering. I feel sad to have witnessed a great nation fall into the state of conflict. While many view the current development as a flaw or a drama show, I would like to look at it as a rising sun on the longest, darkest night in Burma. 

One of the great human qualities is the ability to forgive; without it we will continue to live in pain. It is difficult but possible. I beg people in power and all groups to leave the past in the past and build a strong future for Burma. The nation for the people; the people for the nation. The signal that we see now in Burma is a rare positive sign, like the light of a small candle in the dark. We need to nurture it and not blow it out. It is time for the people of Burma to work together, put aside conflicts and bring a great country to her feet. The bright sun will soon shine on Burma again.

Veerawit Tianchainan

Executive Director, Thai Committee for Refugees Foundation