Burmese criticism is no criticism at all

Bangkok Post - Thailand; Jun 18, 2001

So the Burmese textbook author says Thai people are "given to fun and the appreciation of beauty", and are lazy.

Thais occur to me as some of the most industrious and enterprising people in the region. Where are Burma's huge agricultural, manufacturing and tourist industries? It is hardly in a position to criticise.

And to dislike fun, beauty, and relaxation - this is almost the definition of a barbarian. Conversely, a culture that does appreciate fun, beauty and relaxation very much, as does Thailand, is almost by definition a very refined and advanced culture.

There are more than enough serious, ugly, tense countries on this planet. If they would follow Thailand's example and give themselves more to fun, beauty and relaxation, this would be a much happier, peaceful and prosperous world.

Shunyam Nirav Hawaii

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