In memory of a Math Instructor in Myanmar
I remember
Hearing your voice
In the classroom next to mine
When I checked
There you were
Writing complex formulas on the blackboard
And regaling your students
With stories to make the numbers come to life
How tragic
To hear of your death
Shot down in the middle of the street
Like an animal
Those of us who escaped
Could do little but hide
Our dusters and pieces of chalk
No match for the bullets
Whizzing above our heads
Unsung heroes – like you
Will remain nameless
Until the day, forces of democracy
Can overcome the military
When that day will arrive
If it ever will
Remains a question for posterity.