GENOCIDE

On Saturday, we headed to the Genocide Museum and Nyamata memorial site. In 1994, during the 100 day genocide, approximately 1,000,000 people were murdered (some say 800,000, but many estimate the number nearer to one million). The Museum tells the story of the genocide. It is very well done. Nyamata memorial site is where 10,000 men, women and children were murdered in a couple of days.  I am amazed that the world stood by and allowed this to happen without the UN or someone stepping in to help these inoccent people.

It is incredible how far this country has come in only sixteen short years. Many children were orphaned. When we talk to the children that are 16 or older many do not have living fathers because of the genocide. Many families are missing grandparents. Many families were completely wiped out.

Those who survivored have made a determined effort to forgive those who did horrible things to them and their families. Rwanda is a nation surviving because of forgiveness and reconciliation. They have a good Presdient now and the nation is a nation of unity.  I know I would be a better person if I would use these principles in my own life. So many thing to learn from others!