My King, My Hero

My King - HM Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

Sunday, 16 May

As usual I was surfing my fb to update some burning news, I came across one of my fb friends profile pic as His Majesty's Boyhood Photograph. For a few minutes, I was lost looking at the beautiful Kupar of His Majesty. It is remarkably beautiful. It immediately became one of my favourite HM's Kupar on my phone. I grew up looking at My King but never this lovely photograph. It made my day so happy despite the distressing news of COVID19 across the globe.

So before I set to download the pic, I quickly rolled through HM's official fb page to check the pic. I couldn't find the pic. I made a guess, it must be from somewhere else. However, I couldn't stop downloading the photograph of His Majesty. Nothing has barred me from downloading the photograph and keeping it in my phone as a souvenir. It added one more collection of His Majesty's photograph in my phone. Nevertheless, I have immediately put up in my instagram page to share my happiness and joyous moments and finally into my blog. I am putting up a blog post to remember the day, to feel this day, to get back into such a happy moment, to keep My King close to my heart and also to remember the hard days the world is facing. 

It is one of the most beautiful Kupar of His Majesty I have ever seen –handsome! (no adjective is enough to express my feeling)

The pic speaks that as a little boy, His Majesty seems so caring and a great human-being, mindful and visionary, genuine and selfless leader, someone who could be trusted and relied upon from thousands of miles, is my King and he is my Hero. 

I always look upon My King as a Role Model. An idol. the North Star. True and very genuine soul, for which I always draw inspiration when I go low. I draw solace to move on with life when I go out off the tract. His Majesty always gives me a hope to live one more beautiful moment of my life. 

I feel blessed and lucky million times to be born in this country under such a leader, a visionary King, who loves his people and country more than his own life, such as My King and he is My Hero!

My affection, admiration and respect for My King would never be less, even at the cost of my own life, even at the last phase of my life, I would still be loving My King who has sacrificed his life for the people and the country. 

As always, I am proud of My King, My Handsome King, who have been a very farsighted and inspiring leader. My King is a World Leader, the Most Handsome King of the world who always gives unfailing love and protection to his people that makes him something very special and the world must learn from My Great King!

This is what keeps me moving and brings me one step closer to My King, "we must always stand united in spirit and purpose, we must always be one nation with one common goal". 

Book Review: All I really need to know I learned in Kindergarten

Name of the book: All I really need to know I learned in kindergarten

Author: Robert Fulgham

Book genre: Reference work

Year of publication: 1988

Indeed, this book is a collection of essays that basically talks about human life from a different perspective. It came at the cost of real life experiences that the author of the book had felt when his young school days had gone long ago but what remains behind are all his memories. That hunted him and at times made him overly sick of the life at his kindergarten. As you read down through different topics, one can get a bit of guidance, inspiration and way of life. Above all, some of the topics in the book illustrate that some of the most important life lessons are the ones that we learn early can be used for the rest of our life. It is this book that gave me a lot of my past memories that I had like the author in my school days both in primary and high school. All are gone but memories are still clear and some of the actions and habits I had learnt are impeccable and helped me shape my teaching career. 

 

The book has 198 pages that also includes about the author and few of his last words. It is important to read in order of the book over random selection in order not to miss some of the author’s humor and message, since I found each essay presents some unique learning experience and reflection from his life.

The book opens up with the idea that explains the title and features a poem like creed in a little different sense but the message is still clear. Through the series of essays the author shares how we really need to know about how to live a good and a content life based on some basics learned in schools. 

I found the book very clear and very nice reading through the essay one after another. Short but very precise and clear and meaningful. For a good reader this book can be done in a few sittings or even one sitting for a crazy reader. However, I did in one-week time, as I read three books at a time. Somewhere half way through, it gave me a feeling that how it may apply in different individuals beliefs and life. 

Same like the author, I also had a series of interesting lessons learnt from my childhood that is helping me today to proceed with life –Don't hit people, put things back where you found them, clean up your own mess, don’t take things that aren’t yours, wash your hands before you eat, live a balanced life and son on. 

Therefore, this book is very much applicable in our daily life. One must know habits are built-up in a series of different actions repeated in childhood and at schools. This book is equally thrilling like any other modern classic books that I felt in love for so long. 

Please, read and reflect your everyday life! 

Dutiful Waterfall

This majestic waterfall which starts somewhere from the middle of the giant mountain opposite to Zhemgang town. It tumbles onto the hard rocks joyfully, forms a deep pool before it makes its way down to a small river close-by and flows out into Mangduechhu basin. Since, the area is thickly populated with broadleaf forest. Therefore, it is perennial. 

However, during the summer the volume swells up and becomes more sonorous but it never fails to bring hopes for both villagers nearby and other wildlife. 

According to some elders, this waterfall is very secret and special for them. For a long period of time they have a belief that the size of this waterfall is an indication of whether they can be prosperous or not for that year. The entire village makes an offering of their first harvest of paddy and other essential crops to this waterfall and mountain deity for being so protective and assured for bountiful yield for next season. Therefore, as much as their well-being and happiness for this valley, so do the other ecosystems to this waterfall. 

One cannot make an easy trip toward this mountain side as it is very rocky and stiff. Also one would fall sick or show some bad omen like heavy downpour to thunder and lightening even before the journey. Which in fact is good for wildlife and plants to flourish at its best –untouched and undisturbed. Thus, this waterfall is a hope and a lifeline for both villagers and other plants and animals.

Book Review: Reflection on My Green School, An Outline

Book Title: My Green School – An Overview  

Year of Publication: 2014  

Author: Former Education Minister Thakur S. Powdyel  

This book is not about heavy themes like life and death, war and peace, or technology. Instead, it focuses on the vision for a robust educational system.

To receive such profound insight from someone as respected and experienced in the field of education as Thakur S. Powdyel is rare. He has made a lasting impact on the hearts of people nationwide, not only through his expertise in academic subjects but also by imparting life lessons that extend beyond the classroom.

I found the book to be exceptionally relevant, both for today and for the future. As always, the author emphasizes that true education requires immense personal sacrifice.

Upon reading the final paragraph of the introduction, I was reminded of my own school memories, like squabbling with my mischievous friends over a Parle-G biscuit or a sugarcane stick!

The book is thoughtfully organized, from its layout to the author’s biography. The book’s size and font are carefully chosen, making it easy to read. Inside, the design complements the needs of various readers, and the cover, while simple, carries deep meaning. It is an awe-inspiring work that thoughtfully integrates tradition. Overall, the book is a fitting symbol of the ideas expressed across its pages.

The phrase "the tree of life and the tree of learning" triggered a whirlwind of thoughts in my mind. As always, Lyonpo Thakur’s wisdom shines through, as the book delves into the concept of a good education system.

The author uses metaphors like "my green school," "the colors of life," and "living together" to illustrate the fundamental elements of an effective educational system. He emphasizes that natural, social, cultural, and intellectual aspects must all be addressed in the classroom.

The section on "learning is fun," which the author refers to as "Academic Greenery," resonates deeply with me. I agree with him—learning should be a joyful, engaging journey that extends throughout life.

In his reflections on "matter of taste and entering the temple of my soul," the author draws a comparison to how clothes, beyond their practical purpose, serve as a personal expression. Similarly, the thought-provoking question "If your father brings home his office stationery for your schoolwork, would you feel grateful or upset?" speaks to issues more crucial than academic content, as these are real-life challenges that future generations will encounter.

The final narrative, about a day at Wangmo’s school, provides an eye-opening perspective on our current education system and offers a roadmap for the future of education.

For this immense wisdom, I greatly admire Lyonpo Thakur, not just as an educator but as a role model.

My Reflection

Like the author, I also strive for a safer and more sustainable curriculum and school environment. For a while now, "my vision of education" has been a topic of personal reflection. It’s time for change, particularly in terms of improving infrastructure and adapting the curriculum, while the population is still "small" and "manageable." I’ve also proposed the establishment of a "Model School" in each Dzongkhag.

A Friend From Wangdue

The final vehicle confirmation came at a very short notice. It was already past mid-day. I rushed in haste to catch the only vehicle plying for Gelephu. 

 

The driver was new to me although we live in the same mountain and shop from the same town. He happily offered me the front seat of his utility vehicle. As we progressed with the journey, I could see some farmhouses, farmers toiling in their fields, passerby on their own, birds chirping in styles, winds at its best and sun just like any other day. So, before we progressed deep inside the valley, for the last time I sent my silent prayers to the almighty of giant Black Mountain to safeguard my journey.  

 

We hardly exchanged a few words of introduction with each other; we met a mid-aged man desperately looking for a lift at Tingtibi try-junction. As I heard the driver assuring him the lift, he hurriedly grabbed his bag and took the empty seat behind me. I saw him joyful and happy. 

They quickly exchanged a few words of greetings. 

 

They were lively. I heard them discussing their business affirmation and the details of their travel. However, one thing that interests me more about the man behind me was his native spoken Dzongkha tone, he rather seems very articulative, very fluent, linguistically rich and experienced. Thus, by his Dzongkha silver-tongued, I guessed he must be a native Wangdueip. 

 

I was busy fantasizing with their nice conversation, I occasionally heard them say about the bad road conditions, business, and setting off monsoon season.

 

Just to have a short break of bumpy and winding roads of Tamala, the driver stopped a few miles down the Tamala top towards the face of Samkhara. As we relaxed for a few minutes, we had a quick introduction of each other before bumping up with a more treacherous journey down hill. 

 

As we continued with our drive down, the weather ramped up lightning and thundering, a few miles down, it started raining. We continued our journey in the rain. I could see farmers rushing home, workers sheltering by roadside and under the trees, cars and lorry approaching like a shadow. 

 

Before we crossed Surey road, it started to rain more heavily, thunder and lightning was not only frequent but also more dangerous. So, before we approached the newly constructed Ossey by-pass, I started to have Goosebumps, so many mixed feelings started to appear. 

 

As we finally entered the Ossey by-pass road, it started to rain more heavily and stiffly. I heard drivers saying the road down is more menacing and risky. Thus, he became more careful and watchful of each move. Despite a huge risk he continued down hill. The soil on both the sides of the road were very loose. I could hardly see anything outside except the sound of thunder and rain. 

 

It was when he brakes hard his Pickup to turn back, that I realized the danger of life and death. The road inch away was almost breaking into pieces. The collected rains have already damaged several parts of the unpaved roads. Thus, I came to know how road accidents occur during summer owing to bad road conditions and the power of the rain. 

 

So we returned back to a safer place. But the rain didn't show any sign to stop. It was already a quarter past 5. 

 

In the face of confusion, the driver gave us little hope by assuring that we shall get some place to eat and sleep for the night. 

 

It was already pitch dark when we reached back to a little unfamiliar shop. Birds are settling for the night. Two nearby shops were already being closed. Over a coffee, our diver requested for a room since there is no hotel nearby. Without any confusion the shop owner assured his private rooms. So, before light disappoints us more we made an order for a quick dinner. As we waited for dinner, I had my Coca-Cola drink and my friend on the other end of the table ordered for a chilled beer. 

 

After assuring everything for us, the driver left for his cousin's place. 

 

As we sip down our drinks, we discussed many things ranging from bad road conditions to few personal things. We discussed things like politics and government servants. Although we were no way close by blood or by community, we continue to talk about education, health, sanitation, infrastructural development, transport service, telecommunication, technology, rural electrification, construction work, business, film and hybrid cars. 

 

He was very careful in sharing his experiences of working in government offices for many years. He also had a wide experience of travelling around the country and meeting up with different people. I found him not only mindful but also very resourceful. 

 

As an educator, I had shared all the goodness of schools and institutions, teachers and students, books and curriculum, play field and instructor, classroom and building, technology and gadget just to let him know the school has become a very different place from the past. 

 

As we enjoyed sumptuous dinner, we continued to share more on the power of education and family bondage. However, as I believe, he also believes that education is a very important instrument and a powerful positive force in life anywhere in the world. Therefore, as I am, he also hopes that our education system improves and gets better every year and throughout the generation and fulfills the Royal Vision.

 

On the other hand, he worries about the dying culture and tradition. Also quite often he feels obsessed with so many sophisticated technologies in the market and people becoming overly naïve and selfish. As he recalls his youthful days, he had his last sip of beer and said, the real charm of community and family bonds has lost squarely and infinitely. 

 

As we have shared the same bed, we continued to share stories of different places and friends. As we delved deeper into our conversation, interestingly one of my high school classmates is his long time best friend, which has connected us even more as friends-friend. However, I felt sorry for him for being alone at this age and time. As he told me, he has lived a single life for the past seven years. Nonetheless, both their son and a daughter are married and have a secure job. 

 

He is currently working in one of the Stone Crushing Plants in Zhemgang. However, if everything goes well, he dreams of opening a restaurant. 

 

The next day as it was clear, we started only after breakfast. We finally reached our departing destination at around midday. With the final good-bye, we vehemently hope to meet again in some good times to share enduring stories and hope. 

 

 

Declaimer: The article is a writer's own personal experience.

De-Suung Training: The Test of Time

Since its inception in February 2011, 4,457 (3,236 Male and 1,221 Female) DeSuups had already been trained at Tencholing, Wangduephodrang when the 37th Batch completed their training in February 2020. These men and women from diverse backgrounds are spread across the country and have been serving their fellow citizens diligently. It is reassuring that the numbers will only grow bigger.

My enrollment in DeSuung has been a dream come true in many ways. I have been trying to undergo the training for the past 5 years at least, but each time something or the other prevented me from doing so. I was able to take advantage of the opportunity to finally become a DeSuup this year, by enrolling in the 38th Batch Accelerated Training held at the Royal Bhutan Police Training Institute in Jigmeling.

DeSuups have earned recognition over the years for their unity, strength, courage and service to the society, and their beautiful orange uniform has become a recognisable symbol of their dedication. The DeSuung program has highly acclaimed trainers and training courses.

I was determined that I would become a DeSuup someday, no matter at what age or status. In my view, DeSuung is a fine program for nurturing values and building volunteer services in the country.

DeSuung is a personal initiative of His Majesty The King, born of His Majesty’s concerns for our society and country, and it is our duty to ensure that it fulfills His Majesty’s expectations. DeSuung is an epitome of volunteerism, enabling individuals to become leaders. I have personally seen many good examples set by DeSuup friends across the country during any national events and disasters.

The first few days of the training was quite challenging, as we had to enter a tightly scheduled program straightway, but things started to get better as time passed. The different sessions were tough and challenged us in various ways, but they were also packed with interesting and valuable opportunities for learning. There was no time to be idle. We spent all our energy and gave each element of the training our best efforts. I always had a fear of disappointing the faculty by not living up to their expectations, and this helped me give my 100 percent.

The DeSuung training made me realise that in order to achieve something, we must work very hard. I have never sweated as much as I did on the RBPTI ground, and it also really hit me that nothing in life is ever free. The quote by Jodi Livon, ”Life isn’t always a bed of roses”, came to mind.

The DeSuung training at RBPTI was delivered by a team of established professionals and energetic trainers from both within the institute and outside. The sessions were well designed for our personal and professional growth and to further the cause of nation building by inculcating the right attitude. It was a great opportunity to learn many indispensable subjects, from the basic dress code to table manners to IED to various disasters and its management. We also got to enjoy a lot of interesting activities, including route walks, swimming and rappelling. Rappelling at RBPTI ground was an eventful occasion, where some screamed and few cried in fear. We all created memories to last a lifetime.

I found the weapon handling lessons very valuable. We began with curiosity and enthusiasm, but ended up exhausted and with a deep appreciation for such skills. We learnt the importance of self-discipline, and also that there is no room for ignorance.

We were extremely blessed to receive an Audience with His Majesty The King, who made time to meet with us despite having travelled a great distance and with many other important concerns in mind.

His Majesty shared with us those concerns, regarding our fight as a nation against COVID-19, the importance of guarding our porous southern borders in order to keep the country safe, and the rapidly changing world situation.

His Majesty shared concerns over the economy, and preparedness of the on-going five-year plan and education for emergencies. His Majesty reiterated that we couldn’t afford to be slow and complacent, and have an easy-going mindset. We must unite, dedicate, and remain resilient in all times. We got to see how His Majesty is concerned and thinking about everything that will affect the lives of the people, and we were deeply inspired to serve our country to our fullest abilities.

His Majesty also expressed pride and satisfaction with the success of the DeSuung program and the dedicated service of the DeSuups not just during the present time, but also during every national event and disaster. His Majesty conveyed appreciation and admiration for De-Suung program from His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and His Holiness the Je Khenpo. We were filled with pride and sense of duty upon hearing this, and even more determined to serve our great nation.

His Majesty’s Audience reassured and calmed us, as we understood that Bhutan is safe and the government is preparing well and doing everything to combat COVID-19.

I would like to share a few useful things I leant. As part of dining hall etiquette, watch your footsteps and walk slowly. Less and low conversation is respected. Avoid talking across the dining table. Be mindful of what you take inside your plate. Try not to waste food, food wastage is considered a crime in the mess.

If you aren’t naturally athletic, take care of your physical fitness. Take extra caution during classes on drill, morning PT and doubled-up runs, progress step-by-step and not at once. If your fitness level is towards the low end, it may be difficult to cope up with some exercises, and over exertion will only cause damage. Therefore, always watch your footsteps and muscle condition; otherwise, you may land up risking your whole training period.

My take home messages from DeSuung training are many. I spent very less time in front of a screen, which saved a lot of my data package. I learnt to value time. I learnt the power of teamwork and cooperation, and the importance of being trustworthy and resourceful, resilient and astute, polite and patriotic, courageous and bold, focused and honest- guided by the DeSuup code of honour.

I would like to thank the faculty of RBPTI along with the 298 other DeSuups of the 38th Batch training at Jigmeling for the knowledge and wisdom of a lifetime that they shared with me. The highly committed professionals of the institute have enabled us to serve the Tsa Wa Sum with patriotism.

Throughout my life, this training will remain one of the rare and important moments to remember. I will consider it an achievement for a lifetime, and also an achievement for my family, my parents, and my country.

I am a DeSuup now. I can proudly hang my beautiful orange dress in my room with pride. I have earned it with a lot of sacrifice, and I am now ready to serve my King Country and People round the clock. DeSuups are truly the guardians of peace, and I am proud to be one.

The writer took part in the 38th Batch of De-Suung Program at RBPTI, Jigmeling.

https://thebhutanese.bt/de-suung-training-the-test-of-time/

How a Tiny Country is Doing to Fight this COVID-19 Battle?

I feel the wealth of the country doesn't matter. It's all about the heart and the unity of the nation matters. And it's the leadership that matters the most. In such a situation, we need a leader and government to act fast but very carefully and smartly. 

The problem I have seen with the advanced countries in recent times is quite strange and challenging. Some countries are doing great and few are still struggling in containing the spread of this virus. It's all about self-discipline. As an individual, family, community and nation, we must obey the words and decision of the leaders. 

I still remember what Chinese medical experts have said about the possible spreading of the virus outside China within a few weeks of the outbreak if people take it lightly. People across did not bother to listen and now we all are sharing the cost of life-and-death. I feel this is purely a man-made-disaster even though the cause of the outbreak is still unknown.

However, for a tiny nation, the first imported COVID-19 case was a blessing in disguise. From that night on, we did not sleep peacefully. We were worried and petrified for the possible outbreak in our community. The air around started to become different. We became more anxious and careful about the situation. However, we never fail to unite, prepare possible contingency plans, obey leaders, become honest and more importantly make every support system more efficient and fast for everyone. The media have done their job to reach out the right information at the right time. Telecom has done their job. Health frontline workers have done their job. Besides, the general public have carefully followed what health experts have requested #hand washing and #physical distancing. 

Meanwhile, the government is working day-and-night to put in place everything right from the daily essentials even if lockdown prolongs –beyond expected period. 

I am impressed with what everyone is doing to fight this disease, all together. The battle is not yet over. We must continue to unite and fight this disease until the last patient is freed from the virus. It all takes our patience and unity.

We are locked down but we are happy and content with the government's decision! 

I am staying at home, washing my hands frequently and possibly physically distancing with friends and relatives, ARE YOU DOING YOUR PART TO SAVE YOUR LIVE, GOVERNMENT AND HEALTH WORKERS.