The Bhutanese Leading the way.
When I arrived in Bhutan during 2016, I was excited to learn more about this peaceful little town among the mountains shrouded in mist and the valleys full of beauty with a feeling of curiosity and discomfort.
The experience at that time left me with a strong and lasting impression that would end up shaping not only my career but also my appreciation of society, culture and the value of being human. Not just how beautiful the place is but the way in which the people live in relationships with each other has had a profound impact on me.
The way the Bhutanese treat each other with kindness and respect and as though everyone shares in a community has left me with memories I will carry for the rest of my life. I was particularly impressed by the Bhutanese tradition of expressing respect through the use of both hands when giving or receiving something.
I have found that wherever I have gone in Bhutan, people have expressed their joy through laughter, smiles and acts of kindness. In addition to being moved by the people, I was also inspired by the Bhutanese culture. This is because their culture is rich in traditions but also has seamlessly transitioned and aligned itself with modern society in a way that brings together their past, present and future in a very strong way.
The reality of their philosophy of Gross National Happiness is based on values such as community and happiness over financial wealth and is evident throughout all aspects of their everyday living. The reality of Gross National Happiness is a lifestyle and philosophy – not just a government policy; rather it is a way of life where all people want to be happy and are willing to pursue harmony and well-being over just search for material success.
After a decade I am now a professional contributor to this amazing place that once embraced me as a foreigner. Over time, I have learned that the culture and behavior of the people are shaped by their spiritual beliefs and a profound respect for the wish of his majesty – the King. It is my belief that the core of Bhutan’s society lies in the humility of its citizens, their respect for traditions and the love they have for their communities.
It has been heartwarming to see that in a rapidly changing world Bhutan is still able to maintain their moral and cultural values. I proudly consider Bhutan my home. I have seen how Bhutan has gone through many phases of growth; from the growth of Infrastructure to the expansion of Education, Digital and Social Acceptance. But with growth comes challenges; I have noticed the changing lifestyles of today’s youth who have seen more of what the urban lifestyle has to offer, who aspire towards materialism and sometimes impatiently participate in minor acts of mischief or other inappropriate behavior, all of which do not reflect Bhutan’s history.
These moments serve to remind me how vital it is to continue preserving the spirit of Bhutan as well as the responsibility of every citizen (young & old) toward their fellow citizens and their country. Development does not just mean to have modern conveniences or wealth but also means to create peace within one another, show compassion to our fellow citizens and bring about civic responsibility towards our country.
We all must work together to avoid bringing unnecessary disruptions into the lives of others, by showing respect toward the common areas we share with those in our community and contribute in a positive way to each other as we follow the National Vision of the country.
His Majesty the King has always put emphasis on being a responsible citizen and participating in the development of the nation. The prosperity dream that he has for the country is based on the values of virtue he has for the country; this goal can only be reached when every single Bhutanese person adheres to the vision that was given to them. To enhance Bhutan’s future through hard work and honesty towards all people and with respect for others, each of the people in Bhutan will contribute in a tiny way to build a solid and optimistic future for the entire country.
The strength of Bhutan has always been in its people; their compassion, kindness and sense of belonging are what make this country distinctive from so many other countries in the world. It is essential to continue to protect this spirit in order to allow for future generations to benefit from this outstanding quality of the Bhutanese civic mind.
Having come from overseas to visit Bhutan ten years prior and now living here as both a resident and worker has made me feel thankful and optimistic. I’ve received so much more than I ever thought possible in this beautiful country and as such I believe it requires the intentional actions of each one of us to keep its identity intact and continue towards the aspirations that His Majesty dreamed about when he envisioned the nation.
A few years ago, as I reflected upon my time moving away from the place where I came to where I currently live, I saw that there has been transformation not only in Bhutan but also in me. The beauty of the land, the kindness and hospitality of the people, the values that they hold so dear have each taught me that real progress occurs when we preserve what is good and celebrate the new with wisdom, restraint and a willingness to learn from the past.
I feel blessed to play my part in continuing the story of Bhutan – a story that represents peace, pride and purpose. Although I tell a personal story of what it was like to arrive here on a warm summer evening in 2016 and eventually become an extended citizen of Bhutan today, it is also a constant reminder that nations are created through the commitment and quality of action carried out by the people of the nation. Bhutan has shown the world an alternate path; therefore, let us continue to walk down this path with purpose and care.
An Anonymous Devoted Admirer of Bhutan
