Sunday, April 22, 2007

Suu Kyi quotes

1. “To live the full life, one must have the courage to bear the responsibility of the needs of others...one must want to bear this responsibility.”

2. “...Buddhism, the foundation of traditional Burmese culture, places the greatest value on man, who alone of all beings can achieve the supreme state of Buddhahood. Each man has in him the potential to realize the truth through his own will and endeavor and to help others realize it.”

Suu Kyi’s dedication to serving others is what makes her so remarkable. Her belief that a life is completed by such service cannot be reduced to merely words, for her declaration of selflessness has been matched by action. Her dedication to the country and people of Burma, and the cause of peaceful resistance, makes Suu Kyi an outstanding human being of our time. Her life, filled with tragedy, is one of resilience in the face of tyranny, and she has always appeared poised in her battle against adversity. Suu Kyi’s beauty and small stature adds to the intrigue of a gentle looking woman with an extremely courageous heart. The desire to serve fellow human beings on this planet drives her forward in her ongoing struggle against political repression, and although she remains behind the walls of her property, her face and name are associated with the grace of good against autocratic rule that smashes all opposition. In essence, it is Suu Kyi’s inexhaustible spirit of determination that deems her not only one who serves the interests of her oppressed people, but a presence that benefits our entire planet. Not only does Suu Kyi combine a feminine stature with a tenacious mission, but she inspires all of us to stand up and fight for a better state of our world, even against all odds and power. Suu Kyi’s life is one of service, a voluntary undertaking in the name of human dignity.
The emphasis on obligation originates in Suu Kyi’s stong Buddhist faith, which she declares as authentically Burmese. The tradition of Buddhism encourages a realization of truth and the assistance of leading others to that path. Suu Kyi’s dedication to the truth of human dignity has led her on a difficult path against those in power, who she has challenged with her humanitarian convictions. She sees her dedication to others as part of her raison d’etre for living, for to live and only think of one’s own fortune conflicts with her perception of what a full life consists of. The belief that the human individual possesses such transformative capabilities seems like a life mantra for Suu Kyi, for her continual assertion that non-violent resistance will yield results is a voice of hope in an abyss of desperation. Such a positive outlook on the world refuses to accept any status quo, but to always aspire for a better future without falling into desperation at the feet of the powerful and corrupt.

No comments: