Meeting Maung-Maung

I believe the theme of Meeting Maung-Maung by Pico Lyer is humbleness leads to happiness. This educated man could get a more glorious job, but instead he choses to tour people around the city. He remains humble when talking about his previous experiences getting enough money to attend school and his future goals and ambitions of getting a higher degree. He says that although he doesn't have money, he has friends and life experiences that are more valuable. Therefore, he is happy.
The language he used to describe Maung-Maung's house was effective because it further portrayed his humbleness and how little Maung-Maung needed to survive. Lyer says that there is only a bed and a chalkboard in his entire tiny house with weeds in the front and Maung-Maung's "valuable belongings" were a thick black notebook and a sociology book. These items show that Maung-Maung lives his life without riches or fancy items, but he is utterly happy with what little he has.
Another effective language strategy was to include the U.S. dollar amounts of the kyats Maung-Maung needed to afford his goals. The dollar amounts put into perspective how poor he really is. However, he remains humble and doesn't pity himself, but knows that he will have to work hard to achieve and afford his dreams.