There is a saying, “Speech is silver. Silence golden.”
It does not mean that we should stay silent all the time.
If one does not have meaningful things to say, it is better to remain silent rather than rambling or engaging in frivolous talk.
Hla Min (DTM) 1
Duration of speech
The length of a speech varies.
President Abraham Lincoln was requested to give a “few appropriate remarks” at Gettysburg. His address consisted of ten sentences. It was delivered in less than two minutes (which was not long enough for the official photographer to record the historic moment).
Typically, Elevator speeches last 30 – 45 seconds, Impromptu Speech (e.g. Table Topics) last 1 – 2 minutes, Prepared Speeches last 5 – 7 minutes, TED talks lastless than 18 minutes), Keynote speeches last 45 – 60 minutes with Q&A.
Message
It is usually more important than the messenger.
The speaker should provide a “take away” or an “action item”.
Training / Aids
I had a book of the 40+ speeches given by notable people (e.g. Winston Churchill).
Rotary Club, Kiwani’s Club and Toastmasters International provide guidance and training for communication (Public Speaking and Leadership).
I am a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM).
Hla Min (DTM) 2Toastmaster 1 Toastmaster 2
Speeches
Inaugural address by Abraham Lincoln
John F Kennedy’s speech about Moon Mission
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is known for “The Last Lecture”, where a Professor presents to an audience (e.g. those present for his forthcoming Retirement). Randy Pausch, who was diagnosed with Cancer, gave an up-lifting “The Last Lecture”. It can be viewed on You Tube. It has also been made into a book.
Steve Jobs gave a Commencement Speech at Stanford University. It can be viewed on the Internet. In three parts, he connected the dots (e.g. taking a Calligraphy course to the aesthetic Font designs on Apple Computers.
Shwe YaDu Lann (Poem and Translation) Tekkatho Moe War (Saya U Moe Aung) wrote a poem for the RIT Shwe YaDu (Golden Jubilee). I translated the poem into English.
Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife (Article) Nine of my articles were published in Volume One of the Encyclopedia. 23 Asian American Groups were featured in the three-volume Encyclopedia.
The (Hidden) Power of Kabyar (Poem and Translation) Tekkatho Moe War (Saya U Moe Aung) wrote a poem for “Kabyar Nay” (Poem Day). I translated the poem into English.
To the Shwe Duo (Poem and Translation) Tekkatho Moe War (Saya U Moe Aung) wrote a poem in memory of Saya U Tin Shwe (EP66) and Saya U Hla Shwe (T69), who passed away within a few months of each other. I translated the poem into English.
To ease Nostalgia / “Lwann Pyay Aung (Poem and Translation) Saya U Nyunt Htay (Met73) composed an excellent poem for SPZP-2012. I translated the poem into English.
Names (Article) I have presented several speeches on Names at “Toastmasters International”. I have also written articles on naming conventions, common names, pen names and meaning of names.
Shwe YaDu Lann
Translation by U Hla Min
Shwe YaDu Lann Let it be rough [but it’s tough]. Flowers are blossoming again. Fear not the summer Care not the rain [drops] or the thick fogs & darkness or if winter’s not true to its form
Shwe YaDu Lann Let it be rough. No gentle stream flowing Fear not high winds Care not dense clouds Topsy turvy [come what may] Can paddle upstream With strong mind & conviction Place where heroes [Thu Ye Kaungs] are produced.
Swel Daw Myaing Dann Shwe YaDu Lann is a start [of a journey] To raise the Banner loftily to the skies, to the Zenith displaying our thitsar (vow of truth and integrity)
HLA MIN (Editor, Newsletter Updates, USA)
Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife
Nine of my articles appear in the Encyclopedia ofAsian American Folklore and Folklife (AAFF).
The three-volume book was published by ABC-CLIO in 2011. At the beginning, the book was sold for $275.
I received a book (for completing eight articles according to the agreement) and $10 (for the additional article).
Burmese Americans are covered in Pages 127 to 178 of Volume One.
The Editors decided to merge two of my articles with other authors.
Unfortunately, an error introduced by my co-author. On page 150, he mentioned July 22 (instead of July 19) as Martyrs’ Day. The merged article unfortunately was not sent to me for review. The Editors promise to correct the error in subsequent editions.
Folk tales (as told by Saya Dr. Htin Aung and Ludu U Hla) are part of the Folklore.
To read my articles on-line, you should go to “Google Books” and then search “Hla Min“.
The (Hidden) Power of Kabyar
Translation by U Hla Min
Kabyar is animate But [it’s life is] not just a [fleeting] morn
Kabyar is a weapon But not for destroying the world
Kabyar is key For liberation and independence But not devoid of principles [and morals]
Kabyar has power Hidden but efficient & effective Like sharp-pointed spear-head Can thrust into [the heart of] a power-maniac Cause trembling, shivering, throbbing & anguished pain
Poem in Burmese by Tekkatho Moe War (Saya U Moe Aung)
To the Shwe Duo
Translation by U Hla Min
in memory of “Shwe Duo” : Saya U Tin Shwe (EP66) and Saya U Hla Shwe (T69)
“TO THE SHWE DUO” by Tekkatho Moe War
SHWE duo Blossom in unison Disappear together Free from complaint Even with thin breath Showed mark [of courage and wisdom] Never wavered … Pressed by burden At the awaited turn [of journey’s end] Body — inheritance [from previous lives] Succumbs [to failing health] Yet, “Wei-nyin” is fresh, alive and hovering.
To ease Nostalgia
Poem by U Nyunt Htay
Saya U Nyunt Htay (Met73) is a distinguished poet. He is Chief Editor and/or Publisher of Myanmar Mudita. He composed an excellent poem for SPZP-2012.
Translation by U Hla Min
One cannot forget the history and sweet memories of one’s alma mater, and one feels that most alumni — near and far — still yearn for the good old days.
In front of A Hall, B Hall [C, D, E, F, Halls] friends would tease and prank, yet do no harm. They do not care to find weaknesses in others, and will remain loyal friends. In front of Uttra (North or G) Hall — usually in the evenings — aspiring Ah Nu Pyinnya Shins serenade with love songs aided by guitars, harmonicas and violins.
Hear the bells in Building One, Two [Three] ringing once more. Many rush to the classrooms [some spend time on the corridors to enjoy the belles go by]. At night, some “count the numbers” (perhaps playing cards, or actually studying and doing home work).
RIT students do not feel outnumbered by RASU [with Burma selected] or Eco at any kind of sports [soccer, volleyball, basketball, swimming, water polo …]. RIT has staunch loud-voiced fans [like “Ajala” Moe Hein].
Assembly Hall hosted not just presentations and debates. It also is the home of Geeta See Sar [Musical Evening Extravaganza] with outstanding musicians, composers, vocalists and dancers. Swel Daw Yeik Troupe and Ah Nyeint, Pyazat, … melt our hearts.
Cartoon Box [former telephone kiosk] nurtured many cartoonists to share their humor, satire and ideas with the readers searching for Sacca (Truth).
Aw Bar Lann (precious memories to the graduates attending the graduation ceremony) is known not also for applause but also for the tongue-in-cheek comments and unruly claps and shouts to the unwary treading the Lann.
As the examinations near, most try their best [by borrowing books and notes from their friends, by attending crash sessions] to pass the hurdle. On the desks are notes [not neat and tidy] scattered all over. Times and systems change, but most RITians are able to decide the essentials (“Ah Hnit”) from the inessentials (“Ah Kar”).
Swel Daw Yeik
One can never forget the history and [priceless] memories.
Names
Overview
Before the advent of MRI and Ultra Sound, some people prepare a set of 14 names for the forthcoming : 7 names for a boy (one for each day of the week) and 7 names for a girl (ditto).
Some prefer to have a formal naming ceremony a specified number of days after the birth of a child.
Names may have meaning and/or a historical background.
For example, “Pyke Tin” means “left on a net”. The mother of Saya Dr. Pyke Tin presumably had problems (e.g. miscarriage), so she performed a “Yadana” to catch Saya with a net.
I have a cousin aunt named “Pyke Mi” meaning “caught on a net”.
Ko Ko, Nyi Nyi, Maung Maung, Maung Gyi, Maung Lay, Ma Gyi, Ma Nge are some names based on the order of birth.
There may be name changes. For example, Bogyoke Aung San was named “Htain Lin”, but he changed him name to “Aung San” to rhyme with “Aung Than” (his elder brother).
A new name is given in some social (e.g. Coronation of a King or Queen) and religious (e.g. Higher Ordination) events.
Burma/Myanmar has a sizable number of race and ethnicity.
The following are some prefixes of my sayas, sayamas and friends.
Sao (e.g. Saya Sao Kan Gyi, descendant of Keng Tung Sawbwa)
Sai (e.g. Sai Kyaw Aye, broadcaster for the BBS Shan Language Program)
Saw (e.g. Saw Edison, Karen, RIT Volleyball)
Sa (e.g. Sa Maung Maung, Joint Treasurer, EE69er HCF)
Duwa (e.g. Duwa Zau Lai, Myitkyina)
Nan (e.g. Nan Khin Nwe, young and energetic fund raiser)
Nang (e.g. Nang Khaming, RIT Track and Field)
Naw (e.g. Naw Mu Mu Aye, Professor, Textile)
Salai (e.g. Saya Salai Tun Than, Professor, Yezin)
In most countries, the Father’s lineage is used for the Family Name. Long ago, in some Matriarchal society, the Mother’s lineage is used for the Family Name.
John Fitzgerald Kennedy (or John F. Kennedy) is the US President who proposed the Space Program to send Men to the Moon and bring them back safely to earth. His first name (or personal name) is John. His last name (or family name) is Kennedy. The middle name is Fitzgerald. The middle initial is F. Fitz means “son of”.
President Harry Truman has no middle name. His middle initial is S.
I have no middle name. So at one company, I was registered as Hla X Min (where X is a filler).
My name has only six letters, but it has been misspelled and mispronounced in six (or more) ways.
Prefix
A name may have a prefix.
Prefixes for
a male Burmese name include Maung, Ko, U, and Pho.
a female Burmese name include Ma, Daw, and Phwa.
a Burmese monk name include Ashin, Sayadaw, Venerable and U.
Shan names include Sao, Sai, and Nan.
Mon names include Mehm, Min, Nai, and Mi.
Karen (Kayin) names include Saw, Sa, Pado, and Naw.
Kachin names include Duwa.
Chin names include Salai.
Old Burmese passports were issued with the prefix included. This created confusion when matching names from other documents (e.g. birth certificate).
Dr. U Win was called “Hey, U (pronounced as You)” by his friends, who did not realize that “U” (pronounced as Oo) is a prefix for a Burmese name.
Suffix
A name may have a suffix.
Suffixes include
Sr. (Senior for the father)
Jr. (Junior for one of the sons)
Generation number, e.g. Bill Gates is named William Gates IV
Esq. (Esquire, used earlier in Britain)
Degree, e.g. Freddie Ba Hli, Sc.D.
Fellowship or Membership
Monk names
Some monks names may have “abhivamsa” or “alankara” as suffixes.
Sayadaw U Silananda the prestigious monk examination (conducted in Mandalay) before the age of 27. So, he is often referred to as U Silanandabhivamsa.
There are several distinguished Sayadaws named Ashin Janakabhivamsa.
U Neimeinda and U Siri (Thiri) passed the “Lankara” religious examinations as novices. They may suffix their names with “alankara”.
Prefix for Monk Names
Bhikkhu
Ashin
Baddhanta
Sayadaw
Upazin or Uzin
U
Thera
Maha Thera
Venerable (in English)
Tipitaka Dara (one who completed “Vinaya”, “Sutta”, and “Abhidhamma” exams)
Dwee Pitaka Dara (one who completed “Vinaya” and “Sutta” examinations)
Suffix for Monk Names
Monk names may be suffixed with one or more of the following:
Lankara (one who had passed that dhamma exam as a novice)
[A]bhivamsa (one who had passed the “Set kyar thi ha Dhammacariya” exam before the age of 26)
Wun tha ka (one who stood first in the special examination)
Pa hta ma gyaw (one who stood first in the Pa hta ma pyan exam)
Thi ro ma ni (one who finished 9 “kyans” in a single year)
There is a saying, “Speech is silver. Silence golden.”
It does not mean that we should stay silent all the time.
If one does not have meaningful things to say, it is better to remain silent rather than rambling or engaging in frivolous talk.
Duration of speech
The length of a speech varies.
President Abraham Lincoln was requested to give a “few appropriate remarks” at Gettysburg. His address consisted of ten sentences. It was delivered in less than two minutes (which was not long enough for the official photographer to record the historic moment).
Typically, Elevator speeches last 30 – 45 seconds, Impromptu Speech (e.g. Table Topics) last 1 – 2 minutes, Prepared Speeches last 5 – 7 minutes, TED talks lastless than 18 minutes), Keynote speeches last 45 – 60 minutes with Q&A.
Message
It is usually more important than the messenger.
The speaker should provide a “take away” or an “action item”.
Training / Aids
I had a book of the 40+ speeches given by notable people (e.g. Winston Churchill).
Rotary Club, Kiwani’s Club and Toastmasters International provide guidance and training for communication (Public Speaking and Leadership).
I am a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM).
Hla Min (DTM) 2Toastmaster 1 Toastmaster 2
Speeches
Inaugural address by Abraham Lincoln
John F Kennedy’s speech about Moon Mission
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is known for “The Last Lecture”, where a Professor presents to an audience (e.g. those present for his forthcoming Retirement). Randy Pausch, who was diagnosed with Cancer, gave an up-lifting “The Last Lecture”. It can be viewed on You Tube. It has also been made into a book.
Steve Jobs gave a Commencement Speech at Stanford University. It can be viewed on the Internet. In three parts, he connected the dots (e.g. taking a Calligraphy course to the aesthetic Font designs on Apple Computers.
Dreams Jules Verne was a dreamer. Many of his dreams became reality.
Oral & Written History Several sayas have passed away. A few have memory loss. We should at least have Oral History.
Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife After submitting sample articles, I was accepted as a contributing author.
Blog It stands for a web log. There are platforms for posting blogs.
Contributors Several sayas, alumni & friends submitted news, photos and articles for my Newsletter and Website.
Dreams
Jules Verne
He dreamed of traveling
to the Moon and back
in a hot air balloon
in a submarine 20000 leagues under the sea
to the center of the earth
around the world in 80 days (a remarkable feat for his time)
He inspired people to transform most of his dreams into reality.
Book
Apollo
In his book, Jules Verne sent three men from a Cape in Florida to orbit the moon, return safely to earth. He used a powerful cannon to achieve the velocity to escape the earth’s atmosphere.
A century later — in December 1968 — Apollo 8 with Frank Borman, James Lovell and Bill Anders made Verne’s dream a reality. The space ship was launched from Cape Canaveral (later renamed Cape Kennedy), which is within striking distance of the spot chosen by Jules Verne.
In July 1969, Apollo 11 with Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins and Buzz Aldrin landed in Tranquility Bay on the Moon.
When President John F. Kennedy proclaimed, “Before this decade is out, we will send men to the moon and then bring them back safely to earth”, there was no substantial plan to support his dream.
Verner von Braun, a German rocket scientist (who was captured by the Allied Forces as a Prisoner of War), and his team were given a “level of trust” to work on the NASA project.
It would need baby steps : Mercury, Gemini and Apollo projects to have one, two and three astronauts to man the space ships.
For the Apollo project, it was not clear how to implement the important phase of bringing the astronauts safely back to the earth. e.g. How can a direct hit to the moon cause a safe return to earth?
Folklore said that one engineer scribbled on his lunch bag a “spider” landing on the moon and returning. His dream resulted in the design of the “Lunar Module”. The rest is history.
Take away
If you can dream, others can fulfill [your dream].
My dream two decades ago
I dreamed that I would be able to get the sayas and alumni get reconnected electronically and physically.
In 1999, we established the RIT Alumni Newsletter and the RIT web site (with the expertise of U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76, web master)).
In October 2000, with the help of sponsors and volunteers, the First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe was held in San Francisco, California, USA.
SPZP-2000 Organizers
Seven SPZPs (Saya Pu Zaw Pwe’s) have been held : SPZP-2000 (in the US), SPZP-2002 (in Singapore), SPZP-2004 (in Yangon), SPZP-2007 and SPZP-2010 (in Singapore), SPZP-2012 and SPZP-2016 (in Yangon). Due to pandemic, SPZP-2000 was canceled.
My recent dream
My recent dream was to get as many contributors and volunteers to compile an informal story of
Our beloved land
Our ancestors
Our mentors
Pioneers and prime movers (e.g. those who helped build the “Rice Bowl of Asia”)
Laggards and culprits (e.g. those who dragged Burma into the Least Developing Country status)
Unsung heroes (e.g. who tried to overcome the “Adhamma Era” and rebuild the nation into former glory)
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) wrote :
Dreaming and creating inspiration for others to be able to fulfill your dreams are two different animals, if you will, by themselves.
I, like many others, have dreams but we do not have your dedication. perseverance and drive to inspire others.
As I have said many times here, my hats off to you, I am very proud to be considered your friend, and informal pupil.
And to your significant other to take care of you/look after you and your sons while you would be deep into these projects. Please convey my regards to Ma Sein Yie.
Oral and Written History
There were some Sayas that were over 90. H Num Kok (C), U Soe Khaw (Mining), U Ba Toke (Maths), U Min Wun (C) and U Ba Than (M) have passed away.
The leading Thet Kyee sayas include U Tin U (C), U Aung Khin (M), Dr. Aung Gyi (Rector, C) and U Myo Myint Sein (A).
Many of our sayas are in their 80s.
While they still have high energy and keen memory, we need volunteers to either formally interview them or to record the conversations.
They can become the artifacts of the Oral History section of an engineering library (preferably the YTU Library).
There can also be a section to archive the Written History.
H Num Kok (GBNF)
Saya H Num Kok
He taught Engineering Drawing to Dr. Aung Gyi and U Min Wun.
He taught Soil Mechanics to the younger Sayas.
He served as President of the RIT Track & Field Association with U Khin Maung Lay (Henry, T68) as Secretary and U Myo Nyunt (C69) as Joint Secretary.
He served as Line Judge at the RUBC Regattas along with Saya U Sein Win (GBNF) and Saya Dr. San Hla Aung.
He was loved by his former students. They showed up at the Welcome Party in Yangon for Saya a few years ago. Saya took home the banner of the event to his home in Portland, Oregon, USA.
He worked full-time until he turned 80.
He was reasonably healthy in his early 90s.
He passed away at the age of 98.
U Soe Khaw (GBNF)
U Soe Khaw
He was Part-time Lecturer & Head of Mining Engineering at BOC College.
U Soon Sein succeeded him as full-time saya and Head of the Department.
He worked for the Ministry of Mining before heading out for overseas assignment.
After retirement from the United Nations, he migrated to the USA.
He was actively involved in selected monasteries in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Saya Allen Htay (C58, GBNF), Saya Dr. San Lin (C62) and I had a Lunch gathering with him. The gathering ended near to a Dinner gathering. The three sayas shared their memories.
He was healthy physically and mentally before his beloved spouse’s demise.
A few years later, he passed away.
He is a cousin of Dr. Htut Saing (Harry, Past Captain and Gold of RUBC, GBNF).
U Ba Toke (GBNF)
U Ba Toke
He is a Phwa Bet Taw of the University of Rangoon and the First RU Students’ Strike in December 1920.
Book
His life journey had been recorded and published by his former student Saya Dr. Khin Maung Swe (Maung Thin Char) with the help of Sayama Daw Myint Myint Khine (daughter of Arzani Mahn Ba Khine).
During my visits to Yangon, I paid respect to Saya. He gave me autographed copy of the book.
He was an athlete. He played soccer in his younger days. He headed the Burmese team to Tokyo Olympics.
He used to walk every weekend with his younger Dhamma friends to Shwe Dagon Pagoda.
At the subsequent visits, I found the decline of his health but not his mental acumen.
Saya passed away on December 2, 2020 the day after the RU Centennial, and several days short of his birthday on December 26.
U Tin U
U Tin U
He gave an interview for HMEE-2012 Project.
When the Rangoon University reopened in 1946 (after the war), he attended RU along with Dr. Pe Nyun & Dr. Pe Thein.
Most of his former classmates are GBNF.
He is the Oldest & Most Senior Past Captain of RUBC.
He represented RUBC in the 1948 Independence Day Regatta at Kandawgyi along with Dr. Pe Nyun, Dr. Pe Thein & U Khin Maung Wint.
He opened the RUBC Centennial Celebrations in December 2023.
He is Past Captain of Rangoon Golf Club. He played golf until his early 80s.
He still enjoys the evenings sitting in the lawn and enjoying Scotch Whiskey.
U Ba Than (GBNF)
U Ba Than
He passed away in early 2024.
His elder brother Saya U Tin U (96 years) is still strong and active.
Some thought that their longevity is due to their genes. Sadly, their father passed away in his 60s after raising nine successful sons and daughters.
Until a period before his demise, Saya remembered most of his former students well.
Several students have seen his photo albums. Many photos were given to MES for display and to HMEE (History of Myanmar Engineering Education) for display in the book and the supplemental CD.
He is a proud sponsor of the History project along with U Soe Paing (EE, UCC) and U Thaw Kaung (former Chief Librarian of the Rangoon University Central Library).
He donated almost all of the Garawa money that he received from the SPZPs and his former students.
U Aung Khin
U Aung Khin 1U Aung Khin 2
After retirement as Professor & Head of Mechanical Engineering, he moved to Canada.
He still plays Tennis & Golf.
He does not want to fly long distances.
He is spending quality time with his children and grand children.
Ivan Lee (M69) organized two trips to visit Windsor, Canada and pay respect to Saya.
Dr. Aung Gyi, U Min Wun & U Maung Maung Than
Saya U Min Wun & Saya Dr. Aung Gyi
Dr. Aung Gyi is healthy except for some hearing loss. He attended most SPZPs and Reunions held in the USA, Singapore and Myanmar. He wrote several articles for the RIT Alumni International Newsletter.
Dr. Aung Gyi, U Min Wun (GBNF) and U Maung Maung Than (GBNF) were the initial group of Engineering students sent to study at the prestigious Universities in the USA under the “Twinning Program”.
For some time, U Min Wun (GBNF) could not travel far as he has to take care of his beloved spouse with some health problems. His former students from Myanmar paid respect to Saya in Los Angeles. They also brought Garawa money from the various Civil gatherings in Myanmar. Sadly, he passed away a year ago.
U Maung Maung Than (GBNF) served as Chair of the RIT Sports Council during our days. He played Chinlon. He is also a musician.
HMEE Projects
For the HMEE-2012 Project, we requested the former Heads of the Engineering Departments to write about the history of their departments. The book was published in December 2012.
HMEE 1HMEE 2
The HMEE-2018 Project was established to revise the book published by HMEE-2012 and to provide additional material for the planned two-volume book. However, it did not run into completion partly because of the demise of Saya U Aung Hla Tun and partly because of the calamities.
Sense of urgency
Several sayas have passed away and some sayas have declining physical and mental heath.
We sense that the window for having a comprehensive Written History and Oral History is shrinking.
There is still some time to learn from our sayas and their contemporaries about the different facets of Myanmar Engineering Education.
Their stories can become gems for the Archives.
MEC, MES and RIT Alumni Association can help with the project.
Written History
Several sayas wrote articles and/or notes for
“RIT Alumni International Newsletter” & updates
Swel Daw Yeik Sar Sarsaung for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 & SPZP-2010
The articles can become artifacts of the Written History section of an engineering library (preferably the YTU Library).
Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife
Encyclopedia
Nine of my articles appear in the Encyclopedia.
The three-volume book was published by ABC-CLIO in 2011. The book was sold for $275.
I received a book for completing eight articles according to the agreement and $10 (for the additional article).
Burmese Americans are covered in Pages 127 to 178 of Volume One.
The Editors decided to merge two of my articles with other authors. Unfortunately, an error introduced by my co-author. On page 150, he mentioned July 22 (instead of July 19) as Martyrs’ Day. The merged article unfortunately was not sent to me for review. The Editors promise to correct the error in subsequent editions.
Folk tales (as told by Saya Dr. Htin Aung and Ludu U Hla) are part of the Folklore.
To read my articles on-line, you should go to “Google Books” and then search “Hla Min“.
Blog
Diary, journal, log, and blog (web log) are ways and means to record one’s experience and thoughts.
Blogging is fun. One can just write down one’s thoughts without caring for academic integrity or historical precision. One does not have to write comprehensive reports. Several readers (mostly SMEs or Subject Matter Experts) point out errors (typos, discrepancies).
Not all media and social media are created equal. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, Facebook is a great way to get connected and reconnected (with long lost friends), but it requires time and energy to navigate the “rolling” and “revolving” posts.
I blog in my Facebook page and then share it with one or more FB pages (mainly “RIT Update”). As time and energy permit, I archive the posts along with the relevant feedback to
hlamin.com (my paid web site)
One does not need an account to read my posts on the web sites.
If you search “Hla Min” on the web, it will return (a) a former colonel (b) a former minister (c) an educator (d) some medical tests & results on HLA (e) some of my works
If you specify “RIT” or “TBSA”, the search engine will return my writings in the Newsletters.
If you go to “Google Books”, then you can find my articles for “Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife”.
On the long run, I hope to post “more complete treatment” of topics. As Dr. Nyunt Wai commented, it is a necessary, important and time consuming step to transform my raw materials into a form presentable as an e-book or printed book. I need volunteers to realize my dream and wishes (of an amateur historian, story teller and life long learner) before my reasonably good memory starts to fade away.
“I love you because” (sung by Jim Reeves) was a hit played by Burma Broadcasting Service (BBS).
I wrote a light version of the song.
I did not have a Home Minister at that time to edit or veto it.
I love you because (Lyrics)
I love you because you always stand dear every time I opened up the door You’re always there to help me eat my jam dear I love you more because you never snore.
No matter When you’re sleeping or awake dear You’re pretty as the craters on the moon I love you every minute of the hour dear Because you said You’d cry beside my tomb
I love you because my pocket’s lighter every time you shop around the town I love you because you’re a great fighter But you promised you would never knock me down
Take These Chains (Parody by HlaMin)
“Take these chains” was a song that was played often by BBS.
Thamankyar Ko Myint (Mn70) sang a Burmese song using the tune.
I tried to parody the song.
Take these chains (Lyrics)
Take these chains from my legs and set me free And the rope that ties me to this tree If you really pity me let me drink a glass of Zee Take these chains from my legs and set me free
I’m charged with murder of a tiny, little flea “Cruel” said the judge and he would not hear my plea. So, if you really pity me let me sip a cup of tea Take these chains from my legs and set me free
Take this scarf from my eyes and let me see If your waist still measures twenty three When I’m free I’ll marry you Even barrel shape will do Take these chains from my legs and set me free
Lost Neikban RIT (Parody by U Myat Htoo)
U Myat HtooLost Neikban
U Myat Htoo wrote a parody on “Pyauk Sone Nay Thaw Neikban Bon” (the song by Sai Kham Leik and Sai Htee Saing).
Played the Ukelele and sang the song at the 2015 Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles, and at NorCal RITAA Annual Dinner.
Contributing Editor for the Commemorative issue of the RUBC 90th Anniversary Magazine
Proposed to write Prelude for each section
HCA lasted less than an hour. I completed the Prelude for all sections.
UCC and ICST (Jan 2018)
ICST
Attended the 5th Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe of ICST as a Member of Generation Zero
Later gave a guest lecture at UCSY (University of Computer Studies in Yangon).
In my desire to pay back to UCC, I wrote 30+ posts on “Memories of UCC” in three days of HCA.
Phyu Phyu Kyaw (my former student) told me that I should not be spending too much time in Yangon reminiscing about UCC. She asked, “Would you like to have a two-night three-day vacation at Bagan?”
Sharing Knowledge / Experience (2018 – Present)
After I came back to the USA, I decided to share my memories with my sayas and alumni.
My spouse told me that we should pay back to our beloved land, our ancestors and our mentors.
Started posting “Trivia” to my Facebook friends. Then opened up to the General Public.
Started revising and archiving in my web site: hlamin.com
Posted on selected Facebook Pages : RIT Updates, Myanmar, Memories and Fun with Learning
I am a “Jack of All Trades, and Master of Some”, Mini-Dictionary, Micro-Google, Life long learner, Distinguished Toastmaster, Amateur historian (former Docent of the Computer History Museum), “Sar Pay Chit Thu စာပေချစ်သူ” : freelance writer, editor & translator, Volunteer for alumni, religious & social organizations.
Depending on my HCA, I have written and/or updated dozens of posts daily.
There are eight parts of speech in the English language.
(1) Noun
A noun is a name of a person, place, thing, or concept.
It may be classified as (a) Proper noun (b) Common noun (c) Collective noun (d) Abstract noun.
(2) Verb
A verb usually describes an action or a process.
It may be classified as (a) Transitive verb (b) Intransitive verb.
(3) Pronoun
A pronoun stands for a noun. Associated with a pronoun is person and number.
When we speak, the first person is the one who speaks. The second person is the one being spoken two. The third person is some other being referenced.
Number may be Singular or Plural. If there is only one person, we say it is singular. If there is more than one, we say it is plural. In English, the term “You” may be singular or plural.
(4) Adjective
It is a Modifier
An Adjective usually modifies a Noun or Pronoun.
(5) Adverb
It is a Modifier
An Adverb usually modifies a Verb.
(6) Conjunction
It is a Connector
A Conjunction (such as And or But) connects two parts of a Sentence
(7) Preposition
It is a Connector
A Preposition adds information such as position (e.g. in, on, upon, under) and time (e.g. before, after).
(8) Expression of Mood
There are words to express Mood (e.g. surprise).
They are called Exclamation or an Interjection.
Techniques
In a Grammar class, we had to learn two techniques :
Synthesis combining the parts of speech
Analysis breaking down into the parts of speech.
Need for Grammar
Many native speakers read and write fluently without caring much for grammar.
Knowledge of grammar is needed in
Formal Languages
Automata Theory
Compilers
Translation
Natural Language Understanding and Processing
Burmese
In middle school, we had to study မြန်မာသဒ္ဒါ based on the text by Saya U Pe Maung Tin.
Parts of Speech
နာမ် — noun
ကြိယာ — verb
နာမ်စား — pronoun
နာမဝိသေသန — adjective
ကြိယာဝိသေသန — adverb
သမ္ဗန္ဒ။ — conjunction
ဝိဘတ် — preposition
အာမေဋိတ် — interjection
Pali
Parts of Speech
Pali has only four parts of speech.
Noun
Pronoun
Verb
Clitics (which are equivalent to conjunctions and interjections).
When the Korean War erupted in 1950 with the USA and China as the main protagonists, I was a child [probably too young to comprehend the details], but the interest in the war and its impact intensified as I grew older. Imperial Japan ruled Korea from 1910 to 1945. At the end of the Second World War, USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republic) declared war on Japan [supposedly] with the aim of dividing Korea. With the approval of the US, the Soviet Union claimed North of the 38th Parallel. The USA took control of South Korea. Japan conceded defeat and left Korea.
The conflict between the Governments of North Korea and South Korea escalated into a full-scale war. With the backing of the Soviet Union and China, the North Korea army invaded South Korea in June, 1950. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) condemned the invasion and passed a resolution to defend South Korea. Twenty one nations (including US) sent forces to defend South Korea.
About two months – in the early phase of the war – South Korean forces suffered losses and had to retreat. Then, the counter attacks of the UN forces were able to “severe” the connections of the North Korean fighting units. In the middle of 1951, China sent forces to aid the North Korean army. UN forces retreated.
I am not trying to describe the Korean War in detail. I want to emphasize the intensive use of man power to engage in traditional combat. Note that there were occasional uses of bombers. During the three years (June 25th 1950 to July 27th 1953), there was a huge number of dead, wounded, POW (prisoners of war), and MIA (missing in action). The following statistics show the ghastly nature of the war. Note that only South Koreans are accounted for “South Korea & the 21 nations sent by UN”.
South Korea 178,426 Dead 566,434 Wounded & POW
North Korea 300,000 (estimate) Dead 303,000 Wounded; 120,000 POW
China 400,000+ (estimate) Dead 486,000 Wounded; 21,000 POW
Civilian Casualty 2.5 million South Koreans 1.5 million North Koreans
(2)
From the list of casualties, we can clearly see the striking amount of dead and wounded for both soldiers and civilians. In particular, China – the most populated nation in the world – is estimated to have 900 thousand dead and wounded. Imagine, how many soldiers China must have sent to help North Korea. The News Media of that time coined the phrase “Sea of men” to describe the Chinese army battling the Korean War. One can envision the mass of fighters as an vast open sea.
We have witnessed two “Sea of men” in our mother land. We saw the first Sea in 1988. We are seeing the second Sea now [in 2015]. The poem “Sea of men” was written in September 1988, but it was censored. One does not need to think twice to guess why I wrote the poem.
SEA OF MEN
Water – drop by drop
countless drops assemble
as a water flow
Water flows – collectively
rushing, hustling, bustling –
transforming into a stream
From streams
to twisting, turning and winding rivers
to the whorl of the sea
Very long and broad – vast expanse
waves – agitated by winds – rise high
with grudge and anger
to put down [intruders]
It’s SACCA (“Thitsar” – Truth of nature)
[Rower] holding an oar
thrusting into the water
hoping to harness the wave, but …
[Helmsman] on board a ship
with engine roaring
hoping to split the wave, but …
Only for a short while
the waves seem to loosen –
with sprinkles and sprouts
turn into vortex with immense power –
stronger than ever
One can never break up determined men
It’s SACCA (“Thitsar” – Truth of nature).
September 23rd, 1988
The current “Sea of men” is not for sending people to fight as in the Korean War. It is SACCA [“Thitsar” – Truth of nature] that people, who had to breathe for a long, long time polluted air and strive in an environment with degradation in economics, health, civics, ethics, and education, WOULD assemble VOLUNTARILY in the hope of breathing pure, clean air once again. Does not one like gentle breeze? Does not one want to enjoy fragrances that are carried by the breeze? Sad to note that some of the drains that are left uncleaned are making the air unfit to breathe. Worse still, the defamatory attacks by some have further degraded the air quality.
As the November, 2015 elections draw close, we see “Sea of men”. People truly want to understand and differentiate the ones who really care to upgrade the quality life of lay people, from those, who tend to ignore the people and care only for their own.
Updates
Saya Moe
Saya had medical problems, but he did not stop writing articles & kabyars.
Kabyar
Thanks Saya for your presents — books, magazines, sar saungs & pasoe
The Burmese Calendar is a luni-solar-socio-religious calendar.
The Burmese New Year falls on or around April 16. The three (or sometimes four) days preceding the New Year is celebrated as Thingyan (similar to Songkran festival in Thailand).
It is a lunar calendar with 12 lunar months in most years. An intercalary month called “Second Waso” is added every three years. There are 12 religious and/or social festivals (one for each Burmese month).
Most religious festivals are celebrated on the Full Moon Day.
The following is a brief description of the 12 Burmese months and the associated festivals.
1. Month of Tagu
Name of the auspicious event: Ushering in the Burmese New Year by the Buddhists
Associated festival: A Ta Thingyan Water Festival (generally held from April 13 – 15 or 16)
Details for the celebration: (a) Invite guests for special treat. (b) Take eight precepts and practice Sila (morality). (c) Listen attentively to the “38 Blessings” by the sangha. (d) Chant Paritta (protective verses) and Pathana (“relations”) (e) Pay homage to the elderly people as if they were one’s own parents (f) All the above are performed (by the Burmese Buddhist) to accumulate kusala (wholesome deeds) (g) Most younger people usher in the Burmese New Year by throwing water (h) Thingyan festival is the most prominent among the 12 (monthly) festivals.
Objectives: To cleanse akusala (unwholesome deeds) from the past year (a) symbolically by throwing water (b) practically by performing meritorious deeds such as dana (charity), sila (mrality), and bhavana (meditation)
2. Full Moon Day of Kason
Name of the auspicious event: Buddha’s Day. It is the most prominent day for the (Theravada) Buddhists celebrating four milestones (a) the proclamation that the Bodhisatta Sumeda would become Buddha in four incalculables and 100,000 worlds (b) birth of the Boddhisatta Sidartha (c) enlightenment of Gautama Buddha (d) Mahaparinibbna (final passing away of Buddha)
Associated festival: Kason Nyaung Ye Thun Pwe (pouring water on the Bodhi tree)
Details for the celebration: (a) Invite guests for special treat. (b) Invite sangha and offer requisites (c) Take (five or eight) precepts and practice Sila (morality) (d) Listen to the dhamma talks (e) Practice metta (loving kindness meditation) (f) Share merits (g) Pour water on the Bodhi tree
Objectives: (a) To acknowledge the practice of parami (perfection) for four incalculables in order to become a Buddha (b) To realize that Buddha’s teachings are for our own good (c) To make a determination that we should practice Buddha’s teachings to the fullest extent
3. Full Moon Day of Nayone
Name of the auspicious event: Mahasamaya (“Great Occasion”) A Kha Daw Nay (a) Commemorating truce between Kapilavutta and Koliya countries (b) Assembly of devas, brahmas, galons, nagas, and sanghas expressing their metta (unbounded love) (c) Ordination of 500 princes from the Sakya clan (d) In sum, distinguished and outstanding day of love and peace
Associated festival: Recitation of Mahasamaya Sutta
Details for the celebration: (a) Invite guests for special treat. (b) Invite sangha and offer requisites (c) Take (five or eight) precepts and practice Sila (morality) (d) Listen to the dhamma talks (e) Recite Mahasamaya Sutta (f) Practice metta (loving kindness meditation) (g) Share merits
Objectives: (a) To advocate love and peace among nations with diverse cultures and beliefs (b) To practice metta (unbounded love) not only for humans but for all beings
4. Month of Waso
Name of the auspicious event: (a) Offering of Waso robes (b) Recitation of Dhammacakkapavutna Sutta (“Turning the Wheel of Dhamma”)
Associated festival: There is no specific date for the offering of Waso robes to the sangha. Full Moon Day of Waso is a prominent day for (Theravada) Buddhists celebrating three milestones (a) the day when Boddhisatta was conceived in the womb of Queen Mahamaya (b) the day when Prince Sidharta renounced his worldly pleasures (c) the day when the First Sermon Dhammacakkapavutna Sutta was delivered to his five disciples
Details for the celebration: (a) Invite guests for special treat. (b) Invite sangha and offer requisites (c) Take (five or eight) precepts and practice Sila (morality) (d) Listen to the dhamma talks about Magga (Noble Eight-fold Path) (e) Collectively recite Dhammacakkapavutna Sutta (f) Practice metta (loving kindness meditation) (g) Share merits
Objectives: (a) To avoid the two extremes of sensual pleasure and self-mortification (b) To practice the Noble Eight-fold Path
5. Full Moon Day of Wa Khaung
Name of the auspicious event: Metta (“Unbounded Love”) A Kha Daw Nay 500 monks who were practicing meditation in the forest were intimidated by nats (guardian spirits) and returned to Buddha’s monastery. Buddha preached them Metta Sutta and exhorted them to practice loving kindness meditation to the nats before meditating. The monks returned to the forest and practiced per Buddha’s exhortation. The nats no longer obstructed the practice of the monks, thereby allowing them to progress and get enlightened. Thus, Metta A Kha Daw Nay came into being.
Associated festival: Recitation of Metta Sutta & Sar Ye Tan Mei (deciding the donation to a monk based on a “raffle” [letter written on a stick, in ancient times]
Details for the celebration: (a) Invite guests for special treat. (b) Invite sangha and offer requisites (c) Take (five or eight) precepts and practice Sila (morality) (d) Collectively recite Metta Sutta (e) Offer requisites to the monks based on the Sar Ye Tan Mei “raffle” (f) Dhamma talk on metta and the virtues of practicing metta (g) Share merits
Objectives: To practice metta (unbounded love), karuna (compassion), mudita (altruistic joy), & uppekha (equinamity)
6. Full Moon Day of Tawthalin
Name of the auspicious event: Garudhamma (“Five precepts”) A Kha Daw Nay A brief history is as follows. Bodhisatta was (once) born in Kuru Taing (province), where the king and his people practiced Garudhamma. They refrain from (a) killing (b) stealing (c) sexual misconduct (d) lying (e) taking intoxicants. So, the weather was fine and wealth was amassed. Kawlinga Taing (province) suffered from (a) war (b) famine (c) disease. Many perished. The king and people of Kawlinga Taing decided to emulate the king and people of Kuru Taing. Soon, the weather became fine and wealth was amassed. The three sufferings disappeared. The Full Moon Day of Tawthalin, which is part of the rainy season, was named Garudhamma (“Five precepts”) A Kha Daw Nay.
Associated festival: Competition for reciting poems about the merits of taking five precepts.
Details for the celebration: Host competitions for reciting poems about the merits of taking five precepts.
Objectives: (a) To make people aware of the merits of taking five precepts (b) To have a peaceful community (c) To promote world peace
7. Full Moon Day of Thadinkyut
Phaungdaw-u Festival
Name of the auspicious event: Abhidhamma (“Ultimate Reality”) A Kha Daw Nay & Mahapavayana Nay Buddha taught Abhidhamma to the devas in Savateinsa (during the Buddhist Lent) and returned to earth on the Full Moon Day of Thadinkyut
Associated festival (1): Festival of Light
Details for the celebration: (a) Light candles (b) Light incandescent bulbs Objectives: Emulate the scene where the devas and the people paid homage with candles and lights to the Buddha upon his return from Savateinsa
Associated festival (2): Pavayana Pwe
Details for the celebration: (a) Monks assemble in a sima hall (b) Each monk invites other monks to give advice. He says, “If you have seen me commit a misdeed, you may reprimand me. If you hear that I have committed a misdeed, you may reprimand me. If you doubt me, you may reprimand me. I will try not to commit that misdeed in the future.” (c) Lay people might also invite their fellow people to give advice.
Objectives: (a) To practice Nivata Mangala — blessing where one displays humility (b) For monks to practice Sovacasatta Mangala — blessing where one takes constructive critism (c) For lay people to become good & wise people
8. Full Moon Day of Tazaungdaing
Name of the auspicious event: Samyannaphala (“Virtues of monkhood”) A Kha Daw Nay Buddha gave the sermon to King Ajjasathat on the Full Moon Day of Tazaungdaing
Associated festival: Tazaungdaing Festival
Details for the celebration: (a) Light candles (b) Take (eight) precepts and practice Sila (morality) (c) Dhamma talks based on Samyannaphala Sutta (d) Practice metta (loving kindness meditation) (e) Share merits
Objectives: (a) Make people aware of the virtues of monkhood and the qualities of sangha (b) If one has conducted misdeeds like King Ajjasathat, one should acknowledge the fact, but be determined to be good by doing meritorious deeds.
9. Full Moon Day of Nadaw
Name of the auspicious event: Dhamma Sarsodaw Myar Nay In Burmese History, Full Moon Day of Nadaw honors the literary giants (writers, poets). In modern days, the Department of Religious Affairs designated the day to honor writers for the dissemination of dhamma
Associated festival: Sar Pyan Pwe (Oral and written examination for the monks)
Details for the celebration: (a) Hold religious examinations (b) Written examination about Tipitaka (“Three Baskets”) : Vinaya (Monastic rules of conduct), Sutta (Discourses), Abhidhamma (Ultimate Reality) (c) Oral examination about Tipitaka (d) Lay people may visit libraries and borrow religious books (e) Lay people may hold discussions about dhamma
Objectives: (a) Preservation and propagation of Tipitaka (b) Encourage youths to be highly literate and have good moral character
10. Month of Pyatho
Name of the auspicious event: Shin Ta Htaung (1000 ascetics) A Kha Daw Nay During Buddha’s time, 1000 ascetics in Uruvela forest led by the Kassappa brothers renounced their wrong beliefs and become arahants.
Associated festival: Ordination of monks and novices
Details for the celebration: (a) Hold ceremonies for higher ordination of monks (b) Allow youths to become novices
Objectives: (a) To reinforce the importance of practicing morality (b) To familiarize people with religious ceremonies & the performing of meritorious deeds
11. Full Moon Day of Tabodwe
Name of the auspicious event: Ovada Patimauk (Buddha’s exhortation to avoid akusala, to perform kusala, and to purify one’s mind) A Kha Daw Nay
The Full Moon Day of Tabodwe is significant for several reasons. (a) Venerable Sariputta became an arahant (b) Both Venerable Sariputta and Venerable Mogallana were proclaimed by Buddha as the Best in their specialties (c) Without any explicit notice, Ehi Bhikkhu Calabinna Patisambidapatta arahants (elite monks who do not need explicit ordination, who possess six divine powers, and who easily became enlightened) convened for the Ovada Patimauk ceremony.
Associated festival: Ovadaha Partimauk & Htamane Pwe (Sticky rice) festival
Details for the celebration: (a) Collectively prepare Htamane (b) Offer htamane to monks and devotees (c) Listen to dhamma talks
Objectives: (a) Emphasize the strength of unity (b) Perform meritorious deeds collectively (c) Understand Buddha’s exhortation to avoid akusala, to perform kusala, and to purify one’s mind & practice accordingly
12. Full Moon Day of Tabaung
Name of the auspicious event: Myat Buddha Pyi Daw Win A Kha Daw Nay At the request of his father’s emissary Kaludayi, Buddha accompanied by 20000 arahants returned to Kapilavutta from Rajagaha. The return trip commenced on the 1st waning day of Tabaung in year 103 of Mahatheikarit (calendar used in Buddha’s time)
Associated festival: Buddha Pujaniya Tabaung Festival (paying homage to Buddha)
Details for the celebration: (a) Invite as many sangha as possible (b) Offer requisites to the sangha
Objectives: To remember the Triple Gems: Buddha , Dhamma, and Sangha
