What a woman of incredible courage who has fought, non-violently & tirelessly, for human rights in her country of Burma (Myanmar.) Nobel Peace Prize laureate, mother, daughter, widow, persecuted political leader, devout Buddhist, friend of the people- “The Lady”- Aung San Suu Kyi is an inspiration to her country & millions around the globe.
Before heading out to Hawaii last year to teach an Advocacy course (it’s a long flight), I picked up “The Voice of Hope,” a captivating book by Alan Clements comprised of conversations with Aung San Suu Kyi on a range of topics. Reading it was like sitting down with her, listening to her dynamic voice of freedom, hope, and wisdom, all while she lived for years under house arrest. ‘Listening’ to her in this book is a learning experience that I highly recommend(!)
Today here are two quotes from this book for reflection (& hopefully, some action?)
“You can’t just sit there & hope that things will happen. You’ve got to work at it. I am a great believer in action, endeavor and effort…
…Fearlessness may be a gift but perhaps more precious is the courage acquired through endeavor, courage that comes from cultivating the habit of refusing to let fear dictate one’s actions.”
“Love is an action, not just a mind state. It is not enough to just sit there and send thoughts of loving kindness. One must put that love into action.”
Aung San Suu Kyi
Aung San Suu Kyi (2011) photo: Htoo Tay Zar (from Wikicommons)
grace, peace & courageous Roses
Virginia : )
p.s. here’s a link to an inspiring YouTube video from Amnesty International:
Roses in the Rubble 
Wonderful thoughts, Virginia. Love DOES require action. I’m reminded of an African proverb that (I think) goes “When you pray, move your feet.” Thanks for the reminder!
Thank you Sharron… love the African proverb (sounds right – most Africans i know really know how to move their feet, like they’re really good at African Dancing! or there’s that story of the little sister & brother late for the bus, the sister says, ‘let’s stop & pray we won’t be late,’ & the brother says, ‘hey sis, let’s pray as we run!” : )