Discourse analysis is an important branch of linguistics that examines how language is used in real-life social interaction. Instead of studying language only at the level of individual sentences, discourse analysis focuses on how meaning is created through connected speech, conversation, and contextual use. It reveals that everyday communication is not random or chaotic. Rather, it follows recognizable patterns, rules, and structures that speakers often use unconsciously. These discourse structures help people manage conversations smoothly by organizing how they begin, develop, and end interactions.
One important function of discourse structures is helping speakers manage the entry and exit of conversations. Almost every interaction has a clear opening and closing. These are not accidental; they are guided by social conventions. A common interactional pattern includes three stages: an opening greeting, a main exchange, and a closing sequence. Greetings such as “Hello” or “How are you?” establish social connections and signal willingness to interact. Closings like “Goodbye” or “See you later” mark the end of interaction and show politeness and respect. They also suggest that the social relationship will continue in the future. However, these entry and exit patterns vary across cultures. In some societies, silence may function as an acceptable opening, showing that discourse rules are culturally shaped rather than universal.
Once a conversation has started, speakers must manage turn-taking, which refers to how participants decide who speaks, when, and for how long. In most everyday conversations, speakers follow the rule of speaking one at a time. To manage this, they rely on turn-taking signals, such as intonation, pauses, eye contact, and gestures. Another important concept related to turn-taking is adjacency pairs. These are predictable pairs of utterances, such as question – answer, greeting–greeting, or request – response. If the expected second part of an adjacency pair does not occur, the interaction may feel awkward or incomplete. However, in institutional discourse such as classrooms, lectures, or meetings, turn-taking rules are different. One speaker, usually the teacher or presenter, may control the floor for an extended period.
In addition to managing turns, discourse analysis also examines topic management. Conversations usually focus on a particular topic, but they often move from one topic to another. These changes are called topic shifts, and speakers frequently use topic shift markers such as “by the way” or “speaking of that”. Successful topic management depends heavily on shared knowledge between speakers. This includes not only personal experiences but also encyclopaedic knowledge, which refers to general world knowledge shared within a culture. For example, when people talk about holidays, the conversation naturally extends to travel, hotels, food, and weather. This predictable development shows how discourse relies on common cultural understanding.
Speech is not limited to words alone; it is a form of multimodal social interaction that includes both verbal and non-verbal communication. Discourse analysis pays close attention to relation markers, which indicate the social relationship between speakers. These include physical distance, eye contact, and body posture. Such markers differ widely across cultures. For instance, in some Arab cultures, speakers may sit closer and use more physical contact, while in American culture, greater personal distance is preferred. Structure markers also play an important role. Actions like a handshake, bow, or hug can signal the beginning or ending of an interaction. In British culture, a handshake often marks a formal relationship rather than intimacy. Similarly, greeting rituals vary: sometimes people greet a group as a whole, while in other contexts, they greet individuals separately.
Non-verbal signals are especially significant in managing turn-taking. Among these, eye gaze is one of the most important. Typically, listeners maintain more eye contact with the speaker, while speakers may look away while thinking or speaking. When a speaker finishes a turn, they often look directly at the listener to signal a turn transition. Other turn-taking cues include raising a hand, leaning forward, or changing body orientation. Conversely, avoiding eye contact or continuing gestures may signal the desire to hold the floor and continue speaking.
Non-verbal behaviour also functions as content markers, which support or clarify spoken meaning. Head movements can indicate agreement or disagreement, but these gestures are not always universal. Finger counting, pointing, and size gestures vary across cultures and may cause misunderstanding if interpreted incorrectly. Some cultures avoid touching a child’s head, while others use specific gestures to express emotion or attitude. These non-verbal cues work together with spoken language to enhance meaning-making. Skilled speakers often coordinate speech and gesture, much like a conductor leading an orchestra. This coordination is more controlled in prepared discourse, such as speeches, than in spontaneous conversation.
In conclusion, discourse analysis provides valuable insight into the hidden structures that shape everyday communication. By understanding discourse patterns, turn-taking systems, adjacency pairs, topic management, and non-verbal signals, speakers can communicate more effectively and appropriately. Awareness of these structures helps people interpret meaning accurately, avoid misunderstanding, and manage social interaction successfully. On the other hand, ignoring or misinterpreting discourse structures can lead to communication breakdowns and social discomfort. Therefore, discourse analysis plays a crucial role in improving both language competence and social awareness in a multicultural world.

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When I was young, I once heard my father say, “When I play the violin, I can forget everything.” I did not understand what he truly meant at that time. Whenever he played, he seemed completely absorbed in it, as if the rest of the world had ceased to exist. Sometimes, he would even hum or sing along while playing, creating a melody that filled the room with life and calm at the same time.
“Playing music is not just entertainment; it is a way to reconnect with oneself,” my father often implied through his actions rather than words.
Watching him, I saw a strange magic: a man in his fifties or sixties, sitting quietly, yet as he drew the bow across the strings, the weight of the world seemed to vanish from his shoulders. As a child, I thought perhaps this was simply a hobby or a form of relaxation. Only now, with more years and experiences, do I understand that playing the violin was his personal way to refresh his mind – to restart his thoughts and let go of fatigue, worries, and mental clutter.
“Sometimes, the human mind truly needs a break, just like a tired body,” I realized as I grew older.
It is fascinating how certain activities – so simple in appearance – can have profound effects on mental health. Music, for example, is not only about producing beautiful sounds. It is about creating a space where the mind can wander freely without judgement, where emotions can flow naturally, and where stress can slowly dissolve. Even when my father struggled with daily responsibilities or felt overwhelmed by work, a half-hour with his violin seemed to restore his energy.
“Even a brief moment of focus and creativity can rejuvenate the mind,” I once read in a psychology article, and seeing my father live this truth made it real for me.
The idea of “refreshing” or “restarting” the mind, of course, is not new, but in today’s digital age, we have borrowed these very words from technology. Computers, which most of us interact with daily, use “Refresh” and “Restart” as small yet essential tools to maintain efficiency. Every computer user knows that when you right-click and choose “Refresh”, the screen may flicker briefly, but the content resets itself. It is a tiny, almost invisible act that brings order and smooth functioning back to the system. Similarly, when a computer slows down or becomes unresponsive, pressing Restart gives it a fresh start, allowing all processes to work again with renewed energy.
“Even machines need to refresh sometimes; why shouldn’t humans?” I often think.
This analogy is striking because it shows that all living beings, even ourselves, can benefit from small interventions to restore balance. Mental refreshment does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it can be as simple as stepping away from daily routines, taking a walk in nature, listening to music, meditating, or even reading a few pages of a favourite book. What matters is the intention behind the act – the conscious decision to pause, reset, and regain clarity.
By coincidence, my friends also happen to be at Ngwehsaung Beach today. These are people in their seventies, more than a hundred of them, gathering not for business or work, but simply to spend time together. They organized the trip carefully, travelling from Yangon in two large buses, yet I didn’t know whether they went to “restart” or “refresh” their minds. When I called one of them, I discovered that they had all been first-year students at Pathein College in 1973, and this beach trip was already the third time they had come together like this.
“Friendship is not only about companionship; it is also about refreshing the spirit through shared memories,” I thought, smiling to myself.
Seeing them, I realized how much our minds crave such moments. Like my father with his violin, like a computer with a Refresh button, like my friends gathering at the beach – sometimes, we all need deliberate, conscious acts to release the weight of accumulated stress and to renew our spirits. Mental refreshment does not always require elaborate plans; it can be a hobby, a short trip, music, meditation, or simply spending time with old friends. What matters is the act of intentionally giving our minds a break.
Reflecting further, I notice that mental refresh is also deeply tied to memory. Just as my father’s music made him forget worries, and just as a computer refresh restores the display to full clarity, our minds need moments of stillness to organize thoughts and strengthen emotional resilience. Stress and fatigue, if left unchecked, accumulate like clutter in a room, making it difficult to focus, enjoy, or make decisions. Refreshing the mind is like tidying that room – it clears the space for creativity, clarity, and emotional health.
“A refreshed mind sees opportunities, solutions, and beauty where a tired mind sees only obstacles,” I reflected.
In our busy lives, it is easy to forget this truth. We push ourselves to keep working, keep moving, and keep thinking, often at the expense of our own well-being. Yet, observing my father and my friends reminds me that pausing is productive. Pausing is not wasting time; it is preparing ourselves to engage fully and effectively. Even moments of silence or simple joy can serve as mini-resets for the brain and soul.
Thinking about my friends at Ngwehsaung Beach, I imagine the laughter, the shared memories, the gentle waves, and the calm sea breeze. All of these are forms of mental refreshment. Each conversation, each joke, each moment of quiet observation helps them release stress and reconnect with life. I feel genuinely happy for them, knowing that at seventy or more, they still value and practice this essential part of living fully.
“Life is not just to be lived; it is also to be refreshed,” I thought.
As I write this, I feel inspired by both the past and present. I remember my father, still absorbed in his violin, and my friends, laughing together on the shores of Ngwehsaung Beach. Both examples remind me that refreshing the mind is not a luxury – it is a necessity. Our mental health, happiness, and even productivity depend on it. Life itself, like music or a computer screen, sometimes needs a gentle reset. And when we allow ourselves that, we can return to the world with a renewed sense of energy, clarity, and joy.
“Refresh. Restart. Reclaim your mind. Life is meant to be lived fully,” I concluded to myself.

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Powerful Tool

The effects of corruption are often intangible, yet they significantly hinder the sustainable development of our future world. Global data shows that the cost of corruption is staggering, with an estimated loss of approximately US$3.6 trillion annually – roughly five per cent of the global GDP. As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This principle is exceptionally true for corruption; it is a challenge that must be addressed through prevention before it takes root. Among the various strategies available to prevent corruption, the most powerful tool is “Corruption Risk Assessment – CRA”. As a proactive mechanism, CRA is designed to detect and identify specific loopholes and vulnerabilities within a system where corruption is most likely to occur. By pinpointing these high-risk areas, organizations can effectively close the gaps before unethical actions can take root.
Another way to combat corruption is through Corruption Investigation, but this is inherently a reactive action. While it is essential to hold corrupt individuals accountable and ensure they face justice behind bars, the process demands significant budgets, resources, and human capital. Furthermore, by the time a perpetrator is prosecuted, the illicit funds often disappear, making it impossible to recover the full extent of the financial losses. Relying solely on investigation means reacting only after the damage to sustainable development and public trust has already been done. Therefore, focusing on Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA) provides a more resource-efficient and sustainable path toward a corruption-free future, and we should use this as an indispensable and proactive tool for all anti-corruption agencies to fight against corruption.
How CRA works
According to the definition provided by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in the State of Integrity, “A corruption risk assessment is a systematic tool that can be used by public organizations to identify corruption vulnerabilities within their operations and devise efficient, cost – effective strategies to mitigate those vulnerabilities or risks.” In fact, a corruption risk represents the potential for an act of corruption to occur. Therefore, identifying corruption risks is akin to searching for the hidden roots of corruption, while mitigating those risks is essentially destroying the roots of the corruption plant before it can grow.
Furthermore, the Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA) acts as a specialized lens for identifying loopholes within public services. In many administrative processes, certain gaps and loopholes or ambiguities in rules, regulations and procedures can inadvertently create opportunities for malpractice. CRA meticulously examines these service delivery channels to uncover structural weaknesses – whether they be a lack of transparency, excessive discretionary power, or inadequate oversight. By proactively identifying and closing these loopholes and gaps, CRA ensures that public services remain resilient, accountable, and beyond the reach of corrupt intent, creating corruption – free public services.

Two types of Risk
Generally, every sector faces two categories of risk: internal and external. Internal risks typically arise during the management of public assets. These include vulnerabilities such as embezzlement, fraud, and financial losses resulting from corrupt practices. Key areas of concern include the procurement of organizational equipment, the management of stockpiles, and the overall expenditure of public funds. Furthermore, the safeguarding of confidential information is a critical component of asset management. Vulnerabilities such as the theft or unauthorized sale of sensitive data, including tender details, future acquisition plans, and national security information, must be rigorously addressed within the CRA process.
The second category, external risks, typically arises during interactions with the private sector or the general public. Factors such as undue influence, personal favouritism, or bribery can bias decision-making processes, leading to the distortion of an organization’s integrity and objectives. The collection of public revenue—including taxes, license fees, and import duties—presents significant loopholes where corruption may occur. Furthermore, external risks are often prevalent in procurement and contracting, such as showing favouritism towards a specific supplier during tender preparation or the awarding of contracts, as well as through unnecessary change orders. Other critical vulnerabilities include the processes involved in issuing permits, licenses, and official approvals, all of which require rigorous oversight within the CRA framework.

Five Practical Steps to Conduct CRA
To implement the CRA process practically, the first thing an organization needs to consider is the nature of its operations. Since corruption risks vary significantly across different sectors, understanding the specific functions, mandates, and operational environment of the organization is essential. This foundational step ensures that the assessment is tailored to identify the most relevant vulnerabilities unique to that particular entity.
As emphasized in the UNODC’s ‘State of Integrity’ guidance, a systematic five-step methodology is essential for conducting effective corruption risk assessments within any institutional setting.
Evaluating the operating environment – The initial step requires every organization to thoroughly evaluate its operating environment. This involves identifying various external factors that influence organizational and employee behaviour, while assessing the extent of the organization’s authority over these factors and the constraints it faces. To ensure a comprehensive assessment, the organization should consider a broad range of influences, including legal, regulatory, financial, technological, economic, natural, and competitive environments.
Identifying potential corruption risks – The second step of the process involves identifying the specific types of corruption risks to which the organization is, or may be, exposed. During this stage, the CRA working group meticulously examines the organization’s various functions to pinpoint areas where a dishonest actor could potentially exploit system vulnerabilities for illicit gain. By mapping these functional processes, the group can uncover exactly where the integrity of the organization might be compromised.
Analyzing corruption risks – The third step of the CRA process is to analyze the identified corruption risks. Once the working group has compiled a list of potential risks, an in-depth analysis is conducted to establish their nature and underlying drivers. During this stage, the group may interview staff, examine internal documents, or review existing corruption controls. Relevant internal documents typically include past audit reports, investigation findings, and accounting or procurement records to identify recurring patterns of vulnerability.
Evaluating corruption risks – During the fourth step, the identified issues are prioritized. Working group members must assess which risks require the most urgent attention in the mitigation plan. This evaluation ensures that resources are allocated effectively to address the most critical and high-impact vulnerabilities first. According to the UNODC outlines, the risk prioritization process should be conducted based on two primary dimensions: Likelihood and Impact Severity. As illustrated in the Risk Matrix below, this process helps the working group categorize risks into different levels, such as Minor, Moderate, or Major. For instance, a risk that has a high likelihood of occurring and a high impact severity (e.g., bribes to allow illegal logging) would be classified as a top priority. This systematic approach ensures that the most critical vulnerabilities are addressed first in the mitigation plan.
Preparing and finalizing the mitigation plan to treat the corruption risks – The final step of the process is to prepare and finalize a comprehensive mitigation plan to effectively manage and treat the identified corruption risks. This plan serves as a strategic roadmap for the organization to implement specific controls, assign responsibilities, and establish timelines for reducing vulnerabilities to an acceptable level. Since every organization possesses a unique nature and structure, the risk mitigation plan must be tailored to align with its specific organizational culture. A plan that respects and integrates with the existing internal environment is far more likely to be embraced and effectively implemented by its members.

To cut down the roots
Ultimately, Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA) has become a powerful strategic tool because it shifts the focus from merely addressing symptoms to identifying and addressing the root causes of corruption. By proactively diagnosing systemic vulnerabilities and implementing targeted mitigation strategies, organizations can effectively cut down the opportunities for illicit behaviour before they manifest. This forward-looking approach ensures a more sustainable and resilient framework for organizational integrity.
In conclusion, CRA stands as a powerful and indispensable tool capable of uprooting and eliminating the deep-seated causes of corruption. It is, therefore, vital for every organization to strive for its effective implementation. Beyond merely combating corruption, this process enhances organizational accountability and transparency, ultimately driving overall performance. By improving the quality of public services and fostering greater trust between the government and the citizens, CRA is a cornerstone for institutional integrity. For these reasons, I highly recommend that every organization prioritizes and integrates this essential process into its strategic operations.

References
• Anti-Corruption Commission of Myanmar (ACCM). Official Website. https://www.accm.gov.mm/
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). (2020). State of Integrity: A Guide on Conducting Corruption Risk Assessments in Public Organizations. UNODC.

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On the occasion, I am reminded of three poems written in the last 150 years about ‘Time’ and its inexorable march (so to speak) in human affairs and about the human condition. Two poems were written in English and one in Burmese. A reproduction of two English-language poems follows with commentaries. Between the two English poems and commentaries, a translation of a Burmese poem is provided with comments. A third poem is written in English by another Myanmar poet. It is reproduced with commentary.   In presenting and commenting on these three poems, a few juxtapositions by cross-referencing the themes of the three poems are made.

A Lament by Percy Bysshe Shelley
Percy Bysshe Shelley (4 August 1792-8 July 1822) was a renowned British poet. His biography and his ‘A Lament’ poem can be easily downloaded from the World Wide Web.

QUOTE
A Lament
O world! O life! O time!
On whose last steps I climb,
Trembling at that where I had stood before
When will you return the glory of your prime?
No more- Oh, never more!

Out of the day and night
A joy has taken flight:
Fresh spring, and summer, and winter hoar,
Move my faint heart with grief, but with
Delight
No more-Oh, never more!

UNQUOTE
There is a fair number of interpretations and comments on Shelley’s poem, which was composed, perhaps, in the year 1821. After Shelley’s death, his widow Mary Shelley (30 August 1797-1 February 1851) published The Lament posthumously in 1824.
The first stylistic usage that this writer notices is the use of the word O (without an immediate exclamation mark, albeit later it follows with O world! O Life! O Time!) at the beginning of the first stanza.
The end of the first and second stanzas ends with identical phrases No more-Oh, never more! (Note that it is Oh, not O!)
Online sources state that ‘O’ is for direct address for solemn expressions and ‘Oh’ is a ‘common expression’ of surprise, fear or realization’. Hence, in ‘A Lament’, Shelley used the expressions ‘O’ and ‘Oh’ appropriately, compellingly, and effectively. Commentators state that it was one of Shelley’s most ‘despairing’ poems. One commented that in The Lament, there was no ‘cyclical’ renewal like in other romantic poetry: the loss is permanent, joy has fled and will not return.
I would briefly comment on the second line of the first stanza of the poem ‘… On whose last steps I climb. The Lament was composed by Shelley, apparently, in the year 1821. Just about a year later, Shelley died by drowning in Italy. By writing ‘on whose last steps I climb’, did the poet have a premonition of his pending death within a year or so?
The poem is about loss and non-retrieval loss, for that matter. ‘Oh, no more, never more’ is repeated twice in this short poem. But this dilettante is minded to perhaps overinterpret(?) by postulating that it can have Theravada Buddhist connotations too. Emphatically, I do not mean that Shelley intended to incorporate Buddhist notions or parts of his poem that embodied or displayed Buddhist notions.
In the United Kingdom, the Pali Text Society, which translated the Theravada Buddhist texts from the Pali language, the lingua franca of Buddhist South-east Asia, into English,  was established in 1881, sixty years after Shelley composed The Lament poem.  Shelley could not have been aware of the Buddhist concept of life-cycles, viz. that sentient beings have to go through the loop of samsara (‘cycles of births and deaths’). The Buddhist summum bonum (‘the highest good’) is the non-return, not being reborn:  to adapt a phrase from  Shelley’s poem,  it connotes indeed it wishes for ‘no more future lives’.  Ostensibly, almost obviously, Shelley’s ‘no more!’ ‘Oh, never more!’ is, as the title of the poem indicates, a lament and a longing for ‘a joy [that] has taken flight’ and the frustrated query:  ‘when will return the glory of your prime?’.
On the contrary, a Buddhist concept of ‘no more, never more’ would be not to experience again (in future lives) the human condition, indeed the samsaric human predicament of the round-and-round of future births. No more samsaric round of births! In one sense or in one philosophical slant, Shelley’s poem can perhaps be stated as ‘non-Buddhistic’. Shelley wrote ‘Fresh spring, and summer, and winter hoar, Move my faint heart with grief, but with Delight’. That phrase indicates Shelley’s attachments to worldly things, and he implicitly, indeed almost explicitly wished to return, to be ‘forever more’ (not ‘no more’) so that ‘the glory of your prime’ will return and ‘the joy will not take flight’. That, one submits, does not conform with and may be contrary to the Buddhist ideal of non-attachment and a Buddhist aspiration for non-becoming.
The poem can also be seen from the perspective of the movement, so to speak, of the phenomenon or phenomena of Time. The lament of Shelley on the non-reversibility of time can also be seen in a shorter poem in Burmese simply titled ‘Time’ by Burmese poet Tin Moe.

‘Time’ by Tin Moe
Tin Moe (19 November 1933-22 January 2007) was a Burmese poet. During his lifetime, he composed well over a thousand poems in Burmese. He composed his last poem on the night of 21 January 2007 in his daughter Moe Cho Thin’s house in Baldwin Park, near  Los Angeles, in the United States. Around 20 hours after he composed his last poem, he passed away at a tea shop near one of his daughters’ houses on 22 January 2007. He has been in exile mainly in Belgium and the United States since 1999.  I am not aware of any other translation of Tin Moe’s ‘Time’ poem.

QUOTE
Time
By Tin Moe
Translated by Myint Zan
though one tries to hide away
from it
it arrives in one’s hiding place
taking my energy and strength
to whither?

Composed on 12 March 1966
Translated on 12 March 2026, sixty years to the day after Tin Moe composed the poem.

UNQUOTE
The poem,  first published in 1966, is not quite  ‘A  Lament’ which Shelley searingly and passionately composed about 145 years earlier in the year 1821. It does have a twinge of a lament, though that perhaps is not an overarching theme. It does indicate or reflect the movement, the inexorable march of time, as indicated in the opening paragraph. The poet tries to hide from the sweep of time, which inevitably arrives in one’s hiding place, sapping one’s energy and strength.  The poem relays the message that one cannot hide from the ageing process.   Tin Moe was 32 years old when he composed his ‘Time’ poem. Shelley was twenty-nine when he wrote The Lament. While Shelley lamented about the non-return of ‘the glory of your prime’ which moved ‘his faint heart with grief but with Delight’, Tin Moe pondered whether his ‘energy and strength’ has gone.  Have they gradually, slowly ‘wither away’? That leads to the next poem written in English by another Burmese poet, which, in part, deals with the movement of time.

‘Grass on the Hill’ poem by Myat  Lin
The late Burmese poet Kenneth Ba Sein, who died around October 1980, was from 1966 to 1976 the ‘Sunday Supplement’ Editor of the now defunct English language daily The Guardian (Rangoon). The Sunday Supplement published poems, occasionally short stories and articles. Many Sundays saw the English poems composed by Kenneth Ba Sein in his real name and sometimes under the pseudonym  Myat Lin. The following poem appeared in the December 1974 issue of the now also defunct  Guardian magazine (separate publication from that of the newspaper).

QUOTE
Grass On The Hill
by Myat Lin

While time stood still
in doubts and fears
grass grew on the hill
dripping silent tears

When time moved once again
the hill landslided
the grass crinkled with pain
browned and dried:

That seared patch was once a green spot
now with brown mimosa overgrown
moans O winds, I’m touch-me-not
tell passers-by to leave me alone.

UNQUOTE
I searched the World Wide Web to see if the poem is reproduced there. I could not find it.

Myat Lin was perhaps in his early to mid-fifties when he composed the poem. It was published eight years after Tin Moe’s poem and about 150 years after the first publication of Shelley’s The Lament.  Perhaps it has more connotations with Tin Moe’s ‘Time’ poem than Shelley’s. All three poems used the word ‘Time’, but Myat  Lin’s poem, like that of Shelley,  has despair as its theme. Shelley’s poem is more passionate than Myat Lin’s. Myat Lin ends his poem with a plea, ‘tell passers-by to leave me alone’. Shelley ends his poem with a lament and negative affirmation, ‘No more-Oh, never more!’ Both Tin Moe’s and Myat Lin’s poems lament the movement of time: ‘When time moved once again’, wrote Myat Lin; Tin Moe wrote that his strength and energy (as a result of his being unable to hide from ‘Time’) have gone.  Though tinged with just a touch of sadness, maybe regret, Tin Moe’s poem leans somewhat towards the whimsical. In contrast, the use of the words ‘doubts’, ‘fears’, ‘tears’ and emotional as well as physical ‘pain’, at least metaphorically, makes Myat Lin’s poem a searing one (slightly paraphrasing the phrase ‘seared patch’ in Myat Lin’s poem). The ‘seared patch’ as well as ‘brown mimosa overgrown’ are used both as similes (ravages of time as ‘seared patch’ and overgrown ‘brown mimosa’) as well as metaphors. The great American poet  Robert Frost (26 March 1874-29 January 1963) stated that ‘Poetry begins with delight and ends in wisdom’. Both confirming and moving away (somewhat) from the Frostian wisdom (so to speak), yours truly would state that all three poems, in their own ways and with varying degrees and permutations, display wisdom, albeit not necessarily only ‘in the end’. They may also display poetic  ‘delight’ (‘Delight’ as used by Shelley in his poem), but that delight might also be tinged with, indeed suffused by, an existential sorrow.

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In every society, some people face difficulties such as poverty, loneliness, lack of education, or limited access to basic needs. While governments and organizations work to solve these problems, ordinary citizens can also make a meaningful difference. Volunteering — offering one’s time, skills, or effort without expecting payment — is one of the most powerful ways individuals can help improve their communities. Even small acts of service can create positive change that spreads far beyond what we might imagine.
One of the most important benefits of volunteering is its ability to support people who are in need. Volunteers often assist in community programmes such as tutoring children, helping at shelters, distributing food to the poor, or supporting elderly people who live alone. These efforts may seem small, but they can greatly improve the lives of those who receive help. For example, a few hours spent teaching a child to read may open the door to a brighter educational future.
Volunteering also strengthens the sense of community. When people work together for a common cause, they build trust, understanding, and cooperation. Communities with active volunteers often become more united and supportive. People learn to care not only about their own lives but also about the well-being of others around them. This sense of shared responsibility helps create a more compassionate society.
Another important impact of volunteering is personal growth. People who volunteer often gain valuable skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. These experiences can be especially beneficial for young people who are exploring their future careers. At the same time, volunteering teaches empathy and humility. When individuals see the challenges others face, they develop a deeper appreciation for their own opportunities and become more motivated to contribute positively to society.

Moreover, volunteering can inspire others to take action. When people witness acts of kindness and service, they are often encouraged to do the same. In this way, one volunteer effort can lead to many others, creating a ripple effect throughout the community. Over time, these small actions combine to produce significant social change.
In today’s world, where many people are focused on personal success and busy schedules, volunteering reminds us of the importance of giving back. It shows that making a difference does not always require great wealth or power; sometimes, it simply requires time, dedication, and a caring heart.
Volunteering demonstrates how small actions can lead to big change. By helping others, strengthening communities, and inspiring compassion, volunteers play an essential role in building a better and more hopeful society.

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Leaving our “Comfort Zone” is not an easy thing to do. However, it is one of the most important steps we can take to improve our lives and our careers. A Comfort Zone is a situation where we feel safe and relaxed. In this zone, we do the same things every day and face no stress. While being comfortable feels good, staying there for too long can stop us from growing. We cannot learn new skills or gain new experiences if we only do what is easy. Real progress happens only when we step outside the circle of what we already know.
Many people stay in their Comfort Zone because they are afraid. It is not just the fear of change, but the fear of feeling uncomfortable when starting something new. It takes a lot of courage to leave a life that we are used to. Often, we see other people becoming successful, and we feel jealous. We make excuses by saying, “He is just lucky,” or “She has a wealthy family.” We use these excuses to stay where we are because we are afraid to take a risk.
If we stay in our Comfort Zone for too long, we will lose our energy and our passion. By the time we decide to change, we might be too old or too tired. It is very sad to look back at our lives and feel regret. We should not wait for the “perfect time” to start. We should use our energy and time right now to step out and try something new.
You do not have to change everything in one day. The best way to leave your Comfort Zone is to try small challenges every day. Spend just 15 minutes a day doing something that scares you or interests you. These small steps will help you become brave. Don’t spend too much time just planning; the most important thing is to take action today.
When you leave your Comfort Zone, you will start to feel more confident. When you finish a difficult task, you will realize that you are stronger than you thought. You will also find new opportunities. You will meet new people, find better jobs, and learn things you never knew before. Even though it is hard at the beginning, it will help you become a better and more mature person in the long run. Therefore, do not be afraid of new things. Great opportunities are waiting for you outside of your daily routine. Start today – be brave, face your fears, and step out of your Comfort Zone to reach your goals.

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Photo: Gemini

In today’s modern world, electricity has become the backbone of human civilization. From the simplest household tasks to the most advanced technological systems, electricity plays a vital role in making our lives easier, faster, and more comfortable. Every day, we rely on electricity for lighting, communication, transportation, education, healthcare, and entertainment. Especially during the summer season, when temperatures rise significantly, the demand for electricity increases rapidly as people use more electrical appliances such as fans, air conditioners, and refrigerators to cope with the heat. As a result, it has become increasingly important for people to understand not only the value of electricity but also the need to use it wisely and responsibly.
The development of electricity has a long and fascinating history. In ancient times, people noticed simple electrical effects, such as static electricity produced by rubbing certain materials. However, the scientific study of electricity began much later. One of the earliest pioneers was Benjamin Franklin, who proved that lightning is a form of electricity through his famous kite experiment. His discovery opened the door to further research in this field. Later, Michael Faraday made a groundbreaking contribution by discovering electromagnetic induction, which became the basis for generating electricity in power plants. Another key figure, Thomas Edison, invented the practical electric light bulb, making it possible to use electricity safely and conveniently in homes. Over time, many other scientists and engineers improved electrical systems, leading to the widespread use of electricity that we enjoy today.
Electricity is incredibly useful and has transformed nearly every aspect of human life. In our homes, electricity powers lights, fans, televisions, computers, washing machines, and many other appliances that make daily tasks easier. In the field of healthcare, electricity is essential for operating medical equipment such as X-ray machines, ventilators, and surgical tools, which help save countless lives. In education, electricity enables the use of digital devices, online learning platforms, and modern teaching methods, allowing students to access knowledge more effectively. In industries and businesses, electricity is used to operate machinery, produce goods, and provide services efficiently. Even transportation systems, such as electric trains and vehicles, depend on electricity. Without electricity, modern society would not be able to function properly.
However, electricity itself is not a natural resource; it must be generated from other energy sources. These sources include both non-renewable and renewable resources. Non-renewable resources, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, have been widely used for many years to produce electricity. These fuels are burned to generate heat, which is then used to produce steam and drive turbines connected to generators. On the other hand, renewable energy sources include water, wind, and sunlight. Hydropower uses flowing water from rivers and dams to generate electricity, wind power uses turbines to capture the energy of the wind, and solar power uses panels to convert sunlight into electricity. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in renewable energy because it is cleaner and more sustainable.
Despite these advancements, the growing electricity demand has put significant pressure on natural energy resources. Fossil fuels, which are still the main source of electricity in many parts of the world, are limited and cannot be replaced once they are used up. As populations grow and industries expand, the consumption of these resources continues to increase. This has led to concerns about energy shortages in the future. Furthermore, the use of fossil fuels has serious environmental consequences. The burning of coal, oil, and natural gas releases carbon dioxide and other harmful gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change. These environmental problems can lead to rising temperatures, extreme weather conditions, and damage to ecosystems.
During the summer season, the situation becomes even more challenging. As temperatures rise, people tend to use more cooling devices, which increases electricity consumption significantly. In some regions, this high demand can exceed the available supply, resulting in power outages and electricity shortages. These interruptions can disrupt daily life, affect businesses, and even impact essential services such as hospitals. Therefore, everyone must play a role in conserving electricity, especially during peak seasons.
There are many practical ways to reduce electricity consumption in daily life. One effective method is to replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights, which consume less electricity and last longer. Turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use is another simple but important habit. Using natural sunlight during the day instead of artificial lighting can also help save energy. Additionally, unplugging electronic devices when they are not being used can prevent unnecessary energy consumption. People should also try to use energy-efficient appliances and avoid overusing high-power devices such as air conditioners. Setting air conditioners to moderate temperatures and using fans when possible can significantly reduce electricity usage.
If people do not practice energy conservation, they may face higher electricity bills, which can increase household expenses. On a larger scale, excessive electricity consumption puts pressure on national resources and infrastructure, making it more difficult for governments to meet the growing demand. This can lead to increased costs for energy production and distribution. Therefore, saving electricity is not only beneficial for individuals but also important for the overall development of the country.
In addition to economic benefits, conserving electricity also helps protect the environment. Since electricity generation often involves the use of natural resources, reducing electricity consumption can help preserve these resources for future generations. It can also reduce the emission of harmful gases, thereby minimizing environmental pollution and slowing down climate change. By adopting energy-saving habits, people can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
In brief, electricity is an invaluable resource that supports every aspect of modern life. Its historical development reflects human ingenuity, and its wide range of uses highlights its importance in today’s world. However, the natural resources used to generate electricity are becoming increasingly scarce, and their overuse poses serious environmental and economic challenges. Therefore, it is the responsibility of every individual to use electricity wisely and efficiently. By conserving energy, we can reduce costs, protect the environment, and ensure a stable and sustainable supply of electricity for future generations. Only through collective effort and responsible behaviour can we build a better and more sustainable world.

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As far as we can see, most people tend to go walking in the morning, particularly for good health. The other possible reasons may be that they do not want to start their day with work-related stress, or they would like to prepare for work-related stress before their daily work. Nonetheless, it cannot be denied that many people like to walk only in the morning for any physical exercise or something like that. In contrast to most people’s likes, I would rather go for a walk in the evening. To my certain knowledge, going for an evening walk will relieve stress to some extent after we have been physically and mentally fatigued all day.
In fact, many people do not like to have a walk in the evenings mainly because they are usually as busy as a bee, thereby working late during these periods of time. On the other hand, those who can walk in the evening are most likely to keep early rush hours and will never be late for an evening walk. This is just because walking in the evening as a routine often plays a major part in their day. That is, only if they go out evenings will they probably feel less physical and mental fatigue in the space of a day than average. Even though these people find it happy and healthy to take a walk in the evening, others are given to being late for work as always, lest they should be responsible for an overload or backlog the next day.
Although living in the country, as a part-time teacher, I hardly have time to go out in the evening. Even so, I willingly go for a walk in the evening sometimes. Some evenings must attract me in that the weather is fine with a light wind or without a breath of wind; it is partly cloudy, or there is no cloud in the blue sky, but sometimes, birds fly away to perch in flocks under a bluish-white sky. At that time, my evenings are marvellously pleasant, capturing the subtle hues of the countryside in the evening and cool thanks to a soft breeze. When that happens, I can’t help going for a walk in the evening so that I will skip or drop my evening class despite the fact that I should not do so to my students as a teacher, humorous to say.
Of course, it should take 30 minutes or so to go for a walk in the evening. Too much time is not needed for an evening walk, actually. However, strolling in the evening mostly brings many little-known but great benefits to evening walkers, in spite of the fact that it lasts a short time. By a short walk in the evening, we may have a sound sleep for one night, to my way of thinking. Really, walking in the evening for a short time will apparently ease our nervous tension due to everyday work stress. And we will feel free to enjoy the red and orange natural environment around us, which is glittering in the darker sunlight. In some sunsets, even ugly people seemingly look better than normal, as it is said. Truly, it would be best if we went for a walk a little every evening after we let our hair down and leave our work table. Also, we can walk the dog for an evening unless it bothers us.
For an evening walk, I go to the school lane in my village most of the time. This two-way lane was constructed of concrete so that two bikes can go through one another face-to-face or side-by-side. The white lane is absolutely interesting to me. It has connected my village and its neighbouring ones in such a way that a rural way of life comes alive with crowded villagers here and there along the lane on weekend evenings, especially on Sundays. Over there, the little children are playing tag happily, but some are flying kites, smiling. Some young adolescents are surfing the net on their phones. Some pretty girls are taking a selfie by themselves. There are also some naughty boys sneaking, smoking, chewing betel, and even having a beer in a three-person group, as most have seen. Besides, some men are staggering home, drunk. At that time, however, we are all standing under the reddish-orange clouds. All of us look good in one way or another. We are the same, having a keen sense of the cold, gentle wind of an evening, except that our ways of feeling make a difference to the evening. Please forget what we are in quite a while and go for an evening walk. Have fun!

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