ko jugu ye mogo karamogo ye
-We Learn From Hardship-
This Bambara proverb resonates me in the wake of the recent tragedies hitting homes acros the globe. From Hurricane Sandy, to the Sandy Hook shooting, to the drone killings in Iraq and the disarray in Mali, our world has become a sad place. It seems one cannot escape it. Every time I turn on the news or computer some new atrocity has left another city in shambles.
I spoke to a friend today who lives with his family in the northern city of Gao. As you all know, this rebel-held region of Mali is currently experiencing a French offensive against Islamist insurgents. He tells me that they are doing okay so far, and that as of today: "the terrorists are leaving- we hope for forever". I can only pray that this man and his beautiful children (pictured below) find peace again soon.
Back in 2009, I visited Mali under the auspices of BuildOn, an organization dedicated to brining education to third world countries. For just under a month, I lived in the little village of N'Gola with a group of other American students. I won't get all preachy here about what the trip taught me- instead, I want to just simply say that I am thinking of them. I know that it has been years since I last spoke with my host family and the villagers, but they still touched my life. The most beautiful little girl named Genevieve would sit with me every night as we shucked peanuts with her mother. We didn't really say much of anything- the language barrier was incredible. But the sweetness of the people there and the life in their eyes makes my heart hurt when I think of the danger they are in. There is nothing worse than the death of an innocent child.
As I left the gym the other night, a little girl ran out in front of me. She threw her arms up at the sky and screamed,"Look at the MOON!"It's amazing what innocence can do to the heart. I just wish every child had the chance to be innocent. Life can be mean and hard and hurtful- but at age 5 it shouldn't have to be. Regardless of one's politics, thoughts on war, or opinions on gun control, let us learn from the hardships- let us not forget who the real enemy is. Until next time, keep me in mind.
World, Five for Fighting
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