Remember

April 7, 2016

Twenty-two years since the last genocide of the Tutsis in Rwanda.

100  days of killing.

Over one million people slaughtered.

We have read stories.

We now have friends who lived the stories.

They are strong and beautiful people.

Last month, we visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial with staff from our school. 

It is difficult for some to relive that tragedy, but many find comfort in being at the memorial site. 

"It is my home more than my home is. 

This is where my people are.

I cry, not because I am sad, but because I am touched so deeply."

As foreigners who love Rwanda but do not share its history, a day like today means we stay in our gates and respect the quietude. And, as it was rainy season 22 years ago, it is rainy season now. Throughout this day, the rains have reminded us of what happened so many years ago.

Tonight, our family had a candle-lit prayer. 

We spoke the names of all the Rwandans we could think of... praying for God's comfort upon them and thanking Him for the heroes who helped this nation rise again.

Today launches a week of memorials. People gather with their villages and help those who need it. 

They remember and they sing. 

They sing about their village.

They sing of loved ones.

They sing the names of those who were lost. 

And this year, this 22nd year, they sing of HOPE for the future.