Kyaw Hla is a middle-aged man living in a small village in Myanmar

Kyaw Hla is a middle-aged man living in a small village in Myanmar. His days are shaped by the rhythms of rural life and the responsibilities he carries.

Early Morning Routine
Kyaw Hla wakes up before dawn, as the first light of day begins to spread across the horizon. He starts his day with a short prayer, a ritual passed down through generations, asking for blessings and protection. After this, he heads to the kitchen, where his wife, Daw Mya, prepares a simple breakfast of rice and fish curry. They eat together quietly, enjoying the tranquility of the early morning.

Work in the Fields
Kyaw Hla is a farmer, like many in his village. After breakfast, he heads out to his paddy fields. The journey to his fields is a serene walk along dirt paths lined with tall, swaying palm trees and small streams. Once he reaches his fields, Kyaw Hla works diligently, tending to his crops. Depending on the season, he might be planting seedlings, irrigating the fields, or harvesting rice. His work is physically demanding, but he takes pride in it, knowing it provides for his family.

Midday Break
By midday, the sun is high, and the heat is intense. Kyaw Hla takes a break to rest and eat lunch, which Daw Mya has prepared and brought to the fields. They sit together under the shade of a large tree, sharing a meal of rice, vegetables, and occasionally some meat or fish. This time also allows him to socialize with fellow farmers, exchanging stories and discussing village matters.

Afternoon Activities
After lunch, Kyaw Hla resumes his work until the late afternoon. His tasks vary, from mending tools and maintaining irrigation channels to ensuring the health of his crops. Around mid-afternoon, he returns home, where he helps Daw Mya with household chores or spends time teaching his children about farming practices and life skills.

Evening Relaxation
As the day cools down, Kyaw Hla enjoys some relaxation. He might visit the local tea shop, a social hub for the village men, where they discuss news, politics, and local gossip over cups of sweet, strong tea. Other times, he prefers to stay home, sitting on the veranda with his family, enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Night Time
Dinner is a family affair, with everyone gathered around a low table, sharing a meal and recounting the day's events. After dinner, Kyaw Hla often listens to the radio, catching up on national news and traditional music. Before retiring to bed, he spends a few moments outside, gazing at the stars and reflecting on the day.

Kyaw Hla's life is one of simplicity and hard work, deeply connected to the land and community around him. His daily routines reflect the values of dedication, family, and tradition that are central to his way of life.