I flew home from Kurdistan yesterday and am empty. Kapoosh. I look at my photos and start to cry like a hungry child. I am powerless. I range from sadness to rage to blank stares at the ceiling. I feel so much rage and anger at the systemic denial of justice happening in the world today, that I can’t stand the sight of my bible. The answers in it seem too prescriptive and simple in the face of such complex and prolific terror. God, help.
The boy in this picture is living in squalor just a few miles from the village he was born in. His dad pointed out the hills that signal the beginning of their land. I could see it. But those few miles represent an eternity of space because ISIS forces control the area and use it as a base of opposition into the region of Kirkuk and Basheer.
I want to write down the stories of the Yazidi, Arabs, tribal people, and the wonderful Kurds I shared tea with. It’s just that everything I write feels like a flimsy trivialization of the horror they have been through. How can I do this? How can I paint an accurate picture of the scale of suffering, injustice, and hunger these people experience? Even harder still, how can i describe the warmth I felt being with them, their sense of humor and the tenacity of their spirit?
I’ll try again tomorrow.
In the meantime, if you pray; please stay on your knees. If you give; please keep sharing. If you love people of all shapes, races, religions, orientations, social groups, and colors; keep on keeping on. Because this hateful world desperately needs you.
Tagged: Arab, bible, injustice, Iraq, ISIS, Kurd, Kurdistan, Partners Relief & Development, powerless, pray, prescriptive, Refugees, stories, syria, war, Yazidi
Thank you Steve for writing this….Jen and I are still in the process of truly being cut deep when it comes to the this kind of injustice and we are inspired by your hearts for this and your passion to do something. We look up to what you guys are doing so much and want to reflect the same in Kenya. I really look forward hopefully to some more quality time visiting with you.
No doubt you will be a bright light in Kenya bro. I’m heading to the States on Saturday morning for three weeks then lets get that cup of coffee. Deal?
I am praying for God’s strength to fill you. For a refreshing and a renewal for your heart and spirit. As you pour out your heart to your God, who sees and knows what your going through, for He has walked this way before and He alone, understands. Yes, you are empty, BUT your heavenly Father can and will fill you. I pray you find rest, both for your spirit and your soul. It is important you take care of both, spirit and soul, so you can return strong and finish the race you have been given. Know that there are many who are praying for you and this cause. Many, who hold your hands up as Aaron and Hur did for Moses in the battle with the Amalekites. Sit upon the Stone awhile. (Ex. 17:8-14)
Thanks Allison!
Really appreciate the honesty in this post. Praying brother.
Thanks Michael. Looking forward to meeting you again. Press on brother.