The voice of an Angel

These days, I’m focusing on my research work though mostly in fits and stunts. It’s hard to stay focused all the time considering “life” which is becoming more and more complicated day by day. I believe I can do some great stuff for the world but the problem is that I don’t have enough guts and I’m a little lazy. Well, adulthood- I guess it just crept up on me and all the schooling in the world could not have prepared me for the bulk of contradictory emotions within me!! .

I’m sure, you all know the song called Angel by Sarah McLachlan which originally appeared on her 1997 album ‘Surfacing’. The song (posted below) is an opera version performed by Faryl Smith in the semi-final of Britain’s Got Talent 2008. It is hard to believe she is just 12 years old. She has signed the most valuable contract ever awarded to such a young artist - a multi-album deal worth £2.3 million.

I'm not a big fan of opera, but I really like this song. Every time I listen to this song, I am deeply touched and it takes me to a different place.“I believe this song addresses the moment we all have felt when we wish we had a second chance, when we find ourselves in the depths of regret for something we never did and things we did do”. (Sarah Lisle)

Check out the song below and I hope you enjoy this as much as I do!

(http://www.undercover.com.au/News-Story.aspx?id=7157)

Crossing the Hill River

Location: Tuipui D, Hnahthial District, Mizoram.

Lack of means of communication is one of the main drawbacks in the development of a hilly region like Mizoram. During the bamboo famine of 1958-59, (which eventually led to the Mizo insurgency movement against India in 1966) the only possible means through which access could be gained was by Jeep. Awakened by the insurgency movement, several roads have been constructed by the Government. However, mode of transportation is still inadequate in many parts of Mizoram. Due to extensive landslides and floods in the river valleys, travelling becomes very difficult. Many villages are situated far beyond the river valleys. Since modern bridges are not available in many parts of Mizoram, even simple tasks like crossing of rivers becomes a big challenge especially during the rainy seasons.

My recent visit to my native place in Mizoram proved to be a great eye opener in this matter. I’ve captured an interesting occasion that shows how travelers in some parts of Mizoram cross the rivers. A local boat called Marboat equipped with truck engine run by the Public Work Department, Government of Mizoram is commonly used. The boat usually stands still during rainy seasons, when water current is strong.For safety reasons, bridges have been constructed for use by travelers as shown in the image No.7.

No.1: A Boat is ready to collect travelers and their vehicles.

No.2 & 3: A Boat set sail towards another side of the river.

No.4: A Boat is ready to deposit passengers & vehicles on the riverbank.
No.5 & 6: Passengers and their vehicles are ready to leave the boat.

No.7 A walkable bridge alternative to a boat especially during rainy seasons.