In the days before the internet age, life in a traditional Tongchangya village was simple, peaceful, and deeply connected to nature. The heart of family life is often centered around the hypaethral(isaw), an open-air platform in front of the bamboo house. This was where evenings unfolded with a sense of tranquility, far removed from the busyness and hustle of modern life.
Children would gather under the bright, starry sky, nestled next to their grandmother. The soft glow of the moonlight would gently illuminate the scene, while the cool night air created the perfect backdrop for storytelling. Without the distractions of television or video calls, their world was filled with the vivid imagery of oral traditions and fairy tales.
Grandmothers, the keepers of ancient knowledge, would weave enchanting stories of mythical creatures, ancestral heroes, and the spirits of the land. These stories were passed down through generations, shaping the children’s imaginations and grounding them in the rich heritage of their people.
The sense of joy and happiness in these moments was palpable. The children, lying together on the moonlit night, experienced a deep sense of belonging. The strong bond between family members was nurtured in these simple yet profound moments, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Life, though devoid of the modern conveniences of technology, was filled with warmth, connection, and a sense of shared existence.
Ariyajyoti Bhikkhu
Date: 17-09-2024
