A Single Step

In hopes of raising awareness about the reality of genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan, Sam writes every Monday about a key issue in an attempt to stop the atrocity. Doing so may not bring about a wave of change, but it is a small ripple that represents the tide that needs turning.

There is an ancient proverb reminding us that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This wisdom reminds us that each life experience, whether joyful anticipated or regretfully harrowing is begun by putting one foot on the ground, and then continued by putting one foot in front of the other. Such is how the journey began and continued for many "Lost Boys" of Sudan.

The Tennessean detailed a new art exhibit in its Sunday edition this week. The exhibit features works of the "Lost Boys" of Sudan - young men who fled on foot as their country plummeted towards civil war years ago, which inevitably led to the genocide occurring today. The paintings tell the story of the boys' arduous journey towards a better life in America, a journey that began with a single step and continue even today as they learn English and apply for college.

I encourage all of my Nashville readers to make time to attend this deeply illuminating and shockingly provocative show. My Oasis youth and I will get a private screening of the exhibit with commentary from two Lost Boys in March. Until then, I hope to see everyone visit the paintings and hear the story they tell without words. Countless other stories of Sudanese victims also need telling. May we open our ears to hear the cries of the world.