“Fly Free: A Lesson in Courage and Perseverance”

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“Fly Free: A Lesson in Courage and Perseverance”

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AT OUR house, a cute little bird is kept in a beautiful birdcage. My grandfather, grandmother, nephews, nieces, younger brothers, and sisters regularly feed it grains of rice, and they are very happy to have such a lovely bird at home.
One day, my little bird refused to eat anything we offered. I wondered why it was refusing food. Finally, I realized that I wanted to fly outside the cage and meet new bird friends in a new environment.
So, I immediately set it free. As soon as I released it, the bird flew quickly and happily into the blue sky. It continued flying toward the southern part of our village, where a large banyan tree stands. The bird stopped flying and rested when it reached the tree. Although the tree and the new green surroundings were unfamiliar, the bird seemed very happy.
After a while, a group of young boys with guns (*Laygwa*) approached the tree. I was so worried about my dear bird that I couldn’t stay silent. I ran as fast as I could to the banyan tree where the bird was resting. The entire time, I kept thinking about whether my bird was in danger.
When I reached the tree, I was exhausted. But I felt relieved when I saw my bird sitting on a branch. I greeted it with a sweet smile and asked it to come down, but it didn’t respond. It seemed worried that I might capture it again. So, I explained, “I’m not here to take you back. I came to warn you that your enemies are coming to harm you. Please, fly away!”
Even after I spoke, the bird didn’t seem to hear me. Still, I didn’t give up because I was worried and didn’t want to regret staying. I continued talking until the bird finally looked at me. I decided to keep speaking until it understood or accepted my words. So, I said: “My dear bird, fly away quickly! They are coming. I’m speaking for your safety, not for my benefit. I won’t be happy if they catch you. Rest is good for health, but too much rest can be harmful.
If you’re tired, rest for a while, and then fly toward the beautiful hills and mountains. You can do it. You can fly even in bad situations or in harsh weather. I know flying for hours, days, months, or even years can be exhausting.
But remember, every bird faces difficulties and challenges before reaching its oasis or goal. If we give in to boredom or laziness, we’ll never reach a better place in life. Please, take my words to heart.”
“My dear bird, you bring joy to me and others. But those boys from the village won’t appreciate your beauty or your sweet voice. To them, you won’t be as valuable as a cup of curry. Believe me, or you’ll regret it. Your life will be safer and more peaceful if you find a place among those who love and value you – like the palace of a king or the homes of the wealthy. So, start flying now, my dear. Don’t be lazy or hesitate to make an effort!”
“You know, my love, everyone who cares about you will be proud and delighted when you reach a better stage in life. You’ll also find satisfaction and happiness. Keep flying every second, minute, and hour. You’re not under anyone’s control, and you have countless opportunities to build your life and create your future.
You can move to any place you like – where there are beautiful sceneries, big lakes, long rivers, blue oceans, and unique wonders
of the world. Don’t forget to fly and make an effort if you want to see and experience these great things. You’ll have the chance to meet new friends, enjoy the best fruits and vegetables, and travel safely wherever you wish.” “Think carefully about your new life, which will improve once you make a true effort. Imagine how your life will change. Of course, your thoughts will evolve, and even the views of those boys from the village will change.
They’ll realize you’re more valuable than many cups of curry.” “Moreover, many people will appreciate you because you’ve not only changed yourself but also their perspectives. If you can change your attitude and personality, you’ll be able to transform your surroundings – your place, town, city, country, and even the world – into a better place.”
(This essay is dedicated to everyone willing to take the next step towards improving their life.)

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar