Sweet Home Vermont!
May 22, 2014
Security notification lifted now that I’m safely back in Vermont from 5 very difficult months in western Myanmar. I’m trying to reach the point where I can look back on the circumstances that led to my unexpected return and laugh, or at least evoke a chuckle. I’m not there yet, but as I sit here and type these sentences I’m finding it hard to wipe the wry grin from my face that appears to have a life of its own.
I have stories to tell. Some, I believe, have the possibility of being funny. That, of course, depends on your sense of humor. The base absurdity of some of the situations, people, institutions and political issues that has and continues to perpetuate human rights abuses and complete disenfranchisement of anywhere from 170,000 to 700,000 people – depending on how and who you count – has made me laugh and cry at different times.
I have been unceremonious ejected from Myanmar for security concerns. In a sentence, some elements in Myebon Township and Sittwe became increasingly opposed to our work in the Muslim camp. As the head of the field office, I became a target. I was threatened. My organization could no longer ensure my safety. I was sent home. I do not have more to say at the moment. I am still quite dumbfounded by the urgency with which my departure took place. For now I leave you with some photographs with no explanation attached. These and other pictures will appear in future blog posts with their stories or explanations… possibly.
Catch you on the flippity flop (interpretation: catch you on the next post, whenever and whatever it is). Hope you all are well, safe, happy and loved.
My many blessings,
Stephen
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Welcome home buddy. Good to have you back safe and tucked into Vermont. Looking forward to your blogs
Jimmy buddy! So good to be home and closer to friends. Sure would love you to visit this summer and get me back in the open water swim groove. Think about it! Miss you!
So glad you are back and safe. You have been in my thoughts and I hope to connect with you again. Dn’t be a stranger.
Hi Jackie! Thanks so much for the warm welcome back. I won’t be a stranger. Let’s talk soon.
All I can say is wow…am quite speechless…I’m so glad you are home and safe. Your photographs make me feel such a mixture of sadness and awe. It is so easy to tuck ourselves into our own world isn’t it….Thank you for this!
Thank you, Linda, for all your kindnesses.
From an old friend from the past, who stumbled upon your journeys, I’m inspired and thankful for your safe return. When in the area, please stop by the old place. Smiles to you!
Hey Mike! Wow, so good to hear from you. Thank you for your kind words. I may be in PA in the next few weeks. I’ll make a point of dropping by. It’s been so many years. We have a lot of catching up to do!