The memorial holds a museum outlining the recent history of Rwanda, a floor discussing other historical genocides (in other countries), several well designed gardens, and the mass graves. It took over an hour to go through the entire thing, and it was pretty overwhelming. Several of us agreed that the most emotional part was the "Hall of Children," remembering young people who were killed, and some who survived. One of the quotes from a survivor was a girl who was 10 in 1994. The quote read, "Now when I'm in a large market, I continue to believe that I might find my brothers." This was particularly touching to me, because I have three brothers myself.
For our last lunch, we went back to Chez John (the place from last night) so that Stan could have Rwandan food. He was ill last night and couldn't join us. Then Andrew dropped us at the hotel, where we got a couple of hours' rest and re-packed in preparation for tomorrow.
We spent the evening with one of the BVU students from here, Valery, and his family. They own a new hotel here in Kigali (the Luxury Hotel), and we got a full tour. It's really nice, with beautiful suites. Valery's father treated us to dinner there, and we met his adorable youngest brother and sister as well.
We have all been touched in various ways due to this trip. It's hard to put it into words, and I think the full impact will be easier for me to view when I've had some time to process everything I've seen. After the Holocaust in WWII, many countries vowed "Never again," but the genocide here was less than 20 years ago, and the entire world turned their backs. It's hard for me to believe that it won't happen again -- not necessarily here, but anywhere.
That said, there is so much more here to see than death. The people are hospitable, thoughtful, friendly. The scenic views are gorgeous. The new generation is hopeful. I would like to come back, perhaps with students next time. Everyone should visit this place. Thank you to those who made my visit possible.
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