We had a great day down in Bukavu. If Goma is like LA (and it's not) the Bukavu is like San Francisco. The poverty is the same but the landscape is hillsides. Roads are INSANE! They are dirt roads that are steep, full of cutouts and potholes, barely wide enough for one car and cars fight by one another in both directions along with motorcycle taxis and pedestrians. Our driver did some amazing driving, so good in fact, that we called him James Bond. Navigating the hills were truly like something you would see in a bond film.
Our interview went great. It offered some more insight into the notion of rape as a weapon of war as it has been in the Congo. Devouring a society through destroying its women. Just unbelievable stuff. I think if that takes a big focus in the documentary it will likely be a horror film. The graphic nature of these acts are just pure evil.
We took the fast boat back (3 hours) up Lake Kivu and again made an unexpected stop. This time to get some one off an island. Not sure what it was about but he sure seemed happy.
Today was mostly traveling so there is not much to tell (plus I'm tired). Back at our compound for the night we had dinner and wonderful discussion. I must say in a weird way that the poverty here is oddly inspiring. People are determined to get through every day, acquiring all of its necessities, or attempting to. Still trying to understand my reactions. I am still amazed that I am in Africa. I was telling Randy the other day that I have this expectation of going to Israel someday and getting a feeling that my described. He was not a religious man, but he said that when he went there he felt something he had not felt in any other land. I have actually had a weird feeling like that here in Africa. There is something about it that is connecting. Not sure what it is, but it is definitely something, and no, its not Malaria.
To Steve's question, yes, my internet access is actually through Rwandan servers through out hotel lobby. It is a slow connection. Which is why the photos are limited.
Hi friend -- i've found myself eagerly awaiting your every post on this trip -- thanks for taking us on this very moving journey with you and for so eloquently informing and inspiring. Stay safe and keep the pics coming! xo
ReplyDeleteYour photos and comments about the driving remind me of Haiti. I have learned it is better if you don't look!
ReplyDeleteIt is good to hear that your day trip was insightful. Hopefully it will help to connect the other interviews that have already been shot.
Praying for the team.
I also wanted to comment...I too look forward to your posts. I'm am a little sad at how fast the time is going and I will not hear about Africa again for awhile.
ReplyDeleteHB & MV are going to be so boring when you all get home. Glad the interview went well.
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