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Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Independence for (and by) us

It is independence day. 2015. 67 years since we got "freedom". While I don't really consider February 4th to be a day to celebrate (May 22nd represents the true meaning of "freedom", for reasons that are obvious), I do think that it's a day to ponder and be humble about.

Maithripala Sirisena is President now. He has promised much. He has promised to strip off rhetoric and frill from today's celebrations. Commendably. The true meaning of independence, after all, comes not from lavish display but from self-reflection. As a nation still trying to unshackle itself from colonialism and be free, we need that more than ever.

That is why today is special. That is why the 364 days that pass off in the rest of the year are special too. Not because we celebrate. But because we reflect. I can hence do nothing but wish: may we be better. As a people and as a nation.

Always.

Sabbe Satta Bhavantu Sukhitatta. May all beings be happy.

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