San Antonio, Texas (PRWEB) April 28, 2015
The International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda finished final hearings on Wednesday for crimes committed during the genocide of 1994 in which approximately 800,000 people were killed. According to BBC News on April 22nd, 2015, “It was the first international tribunal to deliver verdicts in relation to genocide…” a hopeful and encouraging perspective against the crimes and injustices that were committed over twenty years ago (http://www.bbc.com/news/world-32422217). Although these trials surface painful memories for the people of Rwanda, it is a testament to the redemption and justice that is sweeping the country amidst the tragedy.
Love 41, a company that donates 100% of profits to a Rwandan charity and has spent the last five years serving in Rwandan communities has seen this gradual restoration first hand. One of the groups they support called LoveBack, has helped some of the indicted criminals of the genocide turn away from violence and hatred and walk towards love and compassion. One example is a man named Shaban, an orphan of the genocide; he was in and out of prison for drugs and heavy violence, a common outcome of the tragedy. However, through numerous conversations and relationships built through Love 41, Shaban decided he no longer wanted to live his life in the shadows. Through prayer and encouragement, Shaban has turned away from drug dealing and violence and is now seeking forgiveness for his offenses and walking in the way of love. This is just one example of the many who have experienced this change of heart.
Another example of renewal is the hope that is growing in children orphaned from the genocide. Through Love 41’s communities alone, over 350 children have been sponsored. Sponsorship includes an education (school isn’t free in Rwanda), food and healthcare. More importantly, kids are renewed knowing that they are claimed once again. Ask a child in the program what they want to be when they grow up and you’ll hear “doctor” or “president” over and over again - a testament to the growing hope considering many lived on the streets, saw their parents killed in front of them and have been told they’re destined for a life of strife and struggles.
BBC often refers to Rwanda, as a “haunted nation” which isn’t what Love 41 volunteers or the people in Rwanda believe. There has been tragedy beyond comprehension, but the people don’t want to stay in the darkness. The good is rising up and outshining the tragedy. There is forgiveness, love, redemption and hope. It is a nation that deserves a new name.
About Love 41
Love 41 is an eCommerce site that sells their own proprietary line of accessories and other women’s goods. 100% of all proceeds go towards Africa New Life in Rwanda to better the lives of orphans, widows and street kids. For more information, please visit http://www.love41.com
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