What gives? Isn't this the biggest blog in the progressive blogosphere? And yet, you would never know that it is International Bloggers Day for Burma. Where are the FP posts on Burma today?
Today, in light of the NYTimes article, we revoice our outrage about BushCo's institutionalization of torture, their disregard for human and civil rights. Let us tie this outrage to the situation in Burma. Electing Democrats is also important to advance a global view of the struggle for human rights.
What can we do to help free Burma? Do we have any power to help?
I confess to ignorance about Burma, its history, and its current situation. But the Saffron Revolution has piqued my interest to learn all about the country. And I think this is the first thing to do if you find yourself in the position I found myself.
1. Educate Ourselves
Thank cosmos for the internetz. It is very easy to educate ourselves. Here are some sites I have found most useful.
2. Spread the Word
Please use your liberty to promote ours.
- Aung San Suu Kyi
3. Exercise the Force of Non-violence
The Saffron Revolution is also about the strength of justice and non-violence to overthrow even the darkest forces of repression.
The Buddhist Peace Fellowship has a special section devoted to the Saffron Revolution. They have excellent Dharma Activist's Toolbox
They share with us the Metta Sutta, "The Buddha's Discourse on Loving Kindness," the chant the monks and nuns of Burma have been praying. You can listen to the chant here (click on Metta Sutta).
As a mother would risk her life
to protect her child, her only child,
even so should one cultivate a limitless heart
with regard to all beings.
With good will for the entire cosmos,
cultivate a limitless heart:
Above, below, & all around,
unobstructed, without enmity or hate.
Whether standing, walking,
sitting, or lying down,
as long as one is alert,
one should be resolved on this mindfulness.
This is called a sublime abiding
here & now.
The only real prison is fear, and the only real freedom is freedom from fear.
- Aung San Suu Kyi