Thank you for this wonderful opportunity to tell our story from the perspective of an inspiring book we have read.
This is the story of the book that touched my spirituality and will to endure and fight my battles.

BOOK: LEFT TO TELL (DISCOVERING GOD AMIDST THE RWANDA HOLOCAUST)
AUTHOR: IMMACULEE ILIBAGIZA

Immediately I figured that this book was about a young woman's struggle and the will of survival during the Rwanda genocide, this powerful memoir has in many ways shaped my perspective on my view of life and how to uphold whatever I believe in regardless of the situation.

The book is a story about the life and times of the Rwanda genocide where two tribes Ina country were at war with each other, the author with seven other women had to hide In a small tiny bathroom, cramped together for 91 days without food and water until they found a escape to a safety camp.

Hence, my favorite quote by the author was when she stated that "I realized that my battle to survive this war would have to be fought inside of me" through this I have come to realize that, no matter who you are there are battles both conscious and unconscious that must be fought by you and you alone, and it literally affects all areas of life not just war. No one would interfere or understand the pain and torment you are going true. Just like the author, life was going smoothly, everywhere was calm, the tutsis and the Hutsis in Uganda lived as one although there were tribal differences, but once an opportunity came to pour out their hatred, it took a big turn and destroyed everything as if hate has been buried deep in them.

In the context of this quote in the book, she had to rely only on God to fight for her because she knew that if her faith was lost, she olwouldnt be able to survive. Thus, put my hope in God and focusing on him is the best way to eradicate fear from overpowering me. The three basic elements need to survive this world are faith, hope and courage which keep me mentally strong and spiritual calm.

The second paragraph says it all, just like the Bible that your faith can move mountain if you believe

This is so relatable because one thing I dread the most is inter tribal wars. Currently I live in a community different from my tribe in the same country. A place where segregation and nepotism takes place even if I have lived almost all my life here. One time I applied for a job I needed so badly considering the economic and financial situations were so poor. Can you imagine that all the indigenes were selected but I was left out. It was so painful because I thought since I was born her and have lived over 25 years they would take me as their own but reverse was the Case as I knew, I was left alone to face my fears.

Another instance, where this quote comes in to shape the perspective of my life I trying times was, when I got admission for my masters degree, I was so happy but this was cut short when I was diagnosed with fibroids couple with the severe symptoms of anemia, headaches, menorrhagia, abdominal pain and all. I was admitted and treated but that was the beginning of my journey of pain and struggles. I had the mindset to utilize my academic year for my benefit and have fun, but this health battle changed that perspective.

At first I accepted the humiliation, pain, segregation, having to put a hold on my life, having to miss important events, having to deal with the stress of been weak, fragile and pale. Just like the author found spirituality amidst the women who had almost lost hope, cramped in that tiny bathroom in what she believed in, as a catholic too I took that step Of faith to uphold my spirituality and not be afraid of it. Now, I meditate and reflect wholeheartedly, I don't question the situation or blame anyone. I am also of the belief that my battles can be worn silently by me alone if I want to survive the torment in the world where everyone is dealing with their issues, as I do not like to be a burden. Her story inspired me that no matter what I am facing, my faith and resilience is very important to uplift my soul from the bondage of fear.

It has indeed been different ever since, although I am not entirely free but its way better than before, the will to fight and not give in to failure, trusting in God for my health and healing while subscribing to heabs and natural healing has been a great deal. I HAVE FOUGHT, I AM STILL FIGHTING AND I WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT TILL MY BATTLES ARE OVER BECAUSE ONLY I WILL BE LEFT TO TELL THE STORY.