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Just picture yourself at a tropical place--where nothing is impossible. Honestly, Cambodia is where paradise and sorrows collide. I will show you what I mean as you read on. Cambodia is a small country; it comprises approximately 181,040 square kilometers in size. Like Loas, Cambodia is between Thailand and Vietnam, which are all part of Southeast Asia 's territory. For centuries, Cambodia has been under the influence of a Royal Personage. Cambodia values agriculture and, thus, it is known for its rich natural resources and healthy soils. The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh. Cambodian's Happy New Year is on April 13th, 14th and 15th (a three day celebration). Cambodia's access to water supplies is from three major sources: the Mekong River is its largest and longest river running from Laos, passing through one side of Cambodia and Vietnam, and makes its way down to the South China Sea. The other two sources are from Tonle Sap, its great lake and the Basak River systems. There are four major mountains within its territory: the Elephant Mts., Cardamon Mts., Dankret Mts. and Aural Mts. (one of the highest in elevation). From ancient times until November 9, 1953, Cambodia had always been ruled by a Royal family. Thus, Cambodian people celebrate their independence day on November 9th. Although, independence was declared in the '50s, Cambodia is still under the Royal Family's influences. There were 39 parties running in the July 26 election. However, only three were in the semi-final: CPP (Cambodian People's Party) - Lead by Second Prime Minister Hun Sen, the party was formerly known as a communist party. Its theme is "'A vote for peace, development and the liberation of the poor,' CPP Chairman Chea Sim told the crowd" wrote Robert Birsel (Info. from Reuters). FUNCINPEC - Lead by Prime Minister Prince Norodom Ranariddh (N. Sihanouk's son). Its theme is "'was established by the king so the FUNCINPEC party is the party of the king, of the monarchy,' Ranariddh said and the party would kick out illegal immigrants," wrote Robert Birsel. Sam Rainsy - Lead by Former Finance Minister Sam Rainsy. Its theme is "Social Justice" [because] "'We have to change the political system and chose new leaders who know how to organize the country into a liberal system which respects human rights, promotes social justice and brings about economic development,' [said Sam Rainsy]" wrote Robert Birsel. CPP won the election for 1998, however, there are still many objections from the other parties. Through the years (and even centuries), Cambodia has constantly suffered a tug of war over power struggles. One of its tragic catastrophic event had happened from April 17, 1975 through December 25,1978, where millions of Cambodians were purged by their own heathen known as the Khmer Rouge (KR / Khmer communist party). The KR cold-bloodedly murdered the older generations and its educated civilians. I remember there was an old saying, 'Education is the light that leads the way.' Did the KR not know this? Instead of advancing its nation into the technology world, it took Cambodia back to the stone age. Through the KR's time reversal, it will take Cambodia a lot of love (from its neighbors, friends and most importantly--THE LOVE FROM WITHIN), trillions of dollars and several centuries of life spans in order to mend Cambodia's damaged soul. This is what I mean, when I say, 'Cambodia is where paradise and sorrows collide.' Cambodia has a great potential to be a beautiful tropical land--fill of nature's personality. Instead, it has been stomped by so many evil spirits. Now, Cambodia is far from home. You and I will have to journey a long way in order to reach Cambodia. This is because Cambodia is a far place from where we call home. I have to go HOME... Continue next page...

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