Faith, Hope, and Forgiveness

I recently had the privilege of hearing one of my biggest inspirations speak at the Paramount Theatre in Austin. Immaculee Ilibagiza is a survivor of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. In her books she chronicles her stories of surviving the genocide cramped in a tiny bathroom for 91 days with 7 other women, losing most of her family, and the profound relationship she shares with God--a relationship that has given her the miraculous courage and will to forgive those that killed her family and others during those three long, horrible months.
Hers is an unparalleled story of courage and hope. She is beautiful, funny, and has faith that can move mountains. She was speaking of her father and the kindness with which he lived his life, and spoke some words that this prideful person (me/moi/katie) needed to hear. When you are faced with the decision between being right and being kind, always choose to be kind. Maybe my favorite quote...ever.

I have seen a picture of Immaculee visiting the bathroom where she hid for 91 days, but nothing could prepare me for seeing the replica that was placed in the lobby of the theatre last week. This bathroom would be cramped with one person, let alone eight. There are just no words.

I'm on a mission. (Unfortunately not to Rwanda with Immaculee. That costs $5000. But one day, maybe...) No, my mission is to share Immaculee with my friends and family. Please, read Left to Tell. It will change your life.