Haw Saobwa FOUR

We had no plans so waiting around was easy, and we commented on how cool it was that these students were getting a first hand lesson in their history.( There is a cease fire in effect with many of the tribes - who want autonomy - so tensions still exist with the military). One of the monks opted to practice his English and came to chat with us on the veranda. The monks are all instructors volunteering up here from Yangon. Some of the group speak Thai, so we get into talking about their trade with Thailand, mostly household items and pure water. They all want to take pictures of us with them. I forget about using my camera completely and when they bid farewell we are ushered in to the parlor,which is lined with book shelves.
Donald's wife, Fern tells us of their love of books and proceeds to unwrap a package from Amazon sent via England. In it are two books about Ne Win, the notoriously fierce General who ruled for 24 years. Proof of the rapid changes taking place. She talks about being alowed to visit Donald for ony 15' every two weeks, and taking dry foods to him because the food in prison is so bad. He was released in 2010 along with the 30 some odd Shan leaders who were jailed after attended a conference in 2005 designated as seeking their input for a new constitution. All have now been freed.
The constitution as it stands says the president must have served in the military, and 25% of the Congress must be from the military. New elections will be held in 2015, at which time there will be an opportunity t change the constitution allowing Ang San Su Khi to be elected President.
Fern is optimistic about the future, and feels she is doing her part for her country by keeping this bit of history alive. Donald is well but must stay with his sister in Nyaung Shwe, as she is ill, and he is keeping his familiy's haw, or palace, occupied so the government won't take it. She met Amy Tan on her visit here from China, and asked us to send her books. I have a list. We are all confident the post will deliver.
There was a small donation box on the table and we were generous with our offerings. She seemed a little miffed with her Aunt by marriage, Inge Sargent, who wrote "Twilight over Burma, my life as a Shan princess". Fern feels she ought to be making some financial contributions for the upkeep as well. I'll have to read the book and look her up next time I'm in CO. Inge lives in Boulder!
-On the road with Kathryn

Location:Hsipaw