Woman from Bosnia ("On the Move")

FOR OUR SISTERS MOVING PAST THEIR TRAUMAS.

Acrylics and marker pen on canvas board. 18 x 24 ins.

She spoke to me of the Bosnian war only once. Like all matters of war, it was a harrowing tale. Gruesome intensity witnessed by a child. A group of soldiers played soccer with her neighbor’s severed head. Men and boys were executed by the thousands. Women and girls were detained, systematically raped and methodically impregnated to wipe out their people’s lineage, bringing only misery and shame. Terrified and malnourished, her family lived in hiding. The Bosnian war was a mighty hard place to protect daughters. Alas, they survived the war, but both parents became ill soon after and wasted away before the eyes of this now young woman, terrified once again.

It’s almost magical, the moment you realize you are in the presence of someone special, with eyes that can see peace in the face of the deepest of griefs and traumas. She didn’t thirst for revenge, she didn’t wallow, and instead chose forgiveness and boundless humanity. With a burning fire to unite, she studied ferociously and joined a humanitarian organization. Since that moment she’s worked tirelessly for peace. A true believer in women moving forward.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

Support movements working on reconciliation and conflict resolution.

If you can, volunteer with organizations addressing issues you are passionate about. Service is a powerful tool not just for change, but also for healing.

Consider public service, including international civil service careers.