Friday, September 25, 2009

A night with Sir Excellency, President Kagame of Rwanda

I had the amazing opportunity to attend a civil forum at my Church tonight. The President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, spoke on the transformational power of reconciliation and how it reunified the Rwandan people after the genocide (where 1 million people were murdered in 100 days) of 1994.

Dr. Miroslav Volf, a Yale professor and Croatia born was also a featured guest. Both President Kagame and Dr. Volf share the common belief that forgiveness is essential in the face of injustice and mandatory in order to rebuild a nation.

International students (many from Rwanda) began the program by singing and dancing.

President Kagame, Pastor Rick Warren and Professor Volf

President Kagame was awarded The International Medal of Peace by Pastor Rick. He was commended for his dedication sacrifices, leadership and fight to end poverty and disease and for efforts for economic development.

It was an educational and inspiring night!

My cousin Megan and sister, Janice attended as well. We ended the night with an impromtu Oktoberfest celebration at Beachfire in Ladera Ranch. What fun! A great way to kick off my birthday weekend... I'll soon be in the, "Over 30 club." :O(

2 comments:

Tirza said...

Wow, you look beautiful! Your hair is so light! Did you color it?

melinda marie said...

Yep, colored. And about to get it cut (a lot!) and a different color. Just call me rainbow bright! Thank you for the compliment! YOU know the woes of our hair!