Tshewang's Journal

Yesterday, I arrived in Tokyo, serendipitously on the last flight permitted before the Japanese government halted all international arrivals. It feels almost fated that I'm here to embark on my master's in public health, especially during a global crisis as defining as the COVID-19 pandemic. My passion for public health has been a beacon throughout my studies and career, and it has never felt more relevant than now, in these trying times. The transition hasn't been without its challenges. Last night, a blend of excitement and jet lag kept me awake, with mild headaches adding to my restlessness. As I adjust to the time difference, I find myself wide awake at what would be dinner time back in Bhutan, while it's already midnight here in Tokyo. The city feels different under the weight of the pandemic; the eerie sound of sirens outside and the unusually empty streets serve as stark reminders of our current reality. Japan has intensified its measures against COVID-19, partic...

Dechen is a remarkable woman, embodying the essence of both a nurturing sister and a devoted mother. Recently assigned to her first job post in a new location, she embraced the colossal responsibility of caring for her three younger siblings, showering them with maternal love and protection. Despite the physical distance from their parents, whose visits were infrequent, video calls bridged the gap, softening the sting of separation. Yet, Dechen's tears revealed the depth of her sacrifice. In this remote and desolate setting, Dechen's partner grappled with his own turmoil. His deep affection for work colleagues stirred feelings of insecurity within her. Despite their mutual love, his life's ambitions seemed to overshadow their relationship, transforming him from a family-oriented man to someone caught in the throes of his own dreams. Yet, he was convinced that Dechen was his beacon of hope, a chance for redemption amidst life's storms. Their connection seemed fated from ...

Arriving in Tsirang during the late weeks of July, I was unprepared for the chill that would later envelop the region. The initial humidity, accompanied by relentless sunshine, evoked vivid memories of my study days in Dhaka—days marked by sweltering heat interspersed with sudden rain showers. Yet, Tsirang, with its summer blooms and verdant grasslands reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, presented a striking contrast to the urban clamor of Dhaka. This place, steeped in beauty and communal warmth, offered a new chapter vastly different from my past experiences. Winter in Tsirang unveiled a different facet of life here. My colleagues, with their penchant for humor that treads the line between audacious and risqué, often find laughter in the least expected places. Despite their seemingly irreverent jokes, the camaraderie we share is a treasure, breathing life and laughter into even the coldest days. The routine of my mornings has evolved into a ritual of simplicity and reflection. Sunlight fil...

When she whispered "Yes," he soared to cloud nine, overflowing with gratitude. "Thank you so much," he said, his heart brimming with joy. This pivotal moment rekindled memories of their college days, where time seemed endless and every message carried layers of meaning beyond the words on the screen. To him, she was the embodiment of his prayers, the muse behind his ambitions. She playfully predicted his future as a Prime Minister, to which he would jest that such aspirations were meaningless without her by his side. For her, he was the first man to whom she'd ever given her heart. He stood out, challenging her worldview and inspiring her to envisage a future filled with love, a concept she had once deemed unattainable. Her dreams of a solitary, ascetic life faded as their bond deepened, his wit and reassurances weaving a new tapestry of possibilities for her life. He, tempered by adversity, bore the scars of his tumultuous past. Each mark was a testament to his...

It's been nearly a month since I embarked on a new chapter in Tsirang, a place I've anticipated moving to since the start of the year. Despite initial reservations, the reality of Tsirang has lived up to the picturesque descriptions shared by those who've called it home before me. The convenience of having everything within close proximity – from my workplace at Damphu General Hospital, just a ten-minute walk away, to essential services like the General Post Office, Bhutan Telecom, and the Bank of Bhutan, all nestled near each other – adds to the allure of this place. Perched above these amenities is the Dzong, housing all sector heads, with the market a short stroll further down. Located a five-hour drive from Thimphu, Tsirang didn't make a strong first impression. The solitude of a large house to myself felt overwhelming. The company of my dog, Eta, provided some comfort during those initial quiet days. However, as I've settled into my role, Tsirang has gradually ...

Dhaka is a city that pulsates with relentless activity. It's not merely busy—it's a tempest of motion, where the ceaseless cavalcade of vehicles creates a tableau of urban struggle. The city's streets, ensnared in perpetual congestion, transform what should be a brief journey of fifteen minutes into an odyssey stretching over hours. This congestion is not just a matter of inconvenience; it's a vivid illustration of the city's grappling with its own growth and infrastructure challenges. The public transport system, stretched beyond its capacity, fails to provide a reliable solution for its inhabitants. Coupled with a scarcity of stringent traffic regulations and the uncontrolled flood of imported used vehicles, the city's roads are more than just crowded—they are a vivid display of the complexities of urban development gone awry. Caught in this daily turmoil, I write these lines. Stranded for hours in the snarls of traffic, the frustration and idle time bred insp...