Like every other day, we met such amazing people today, each of whom are uniquely outstanding individuals. Common things among them are that all experienced such a traumatic memory during their childhood when Pol Pot was in power and have become very powerful and highly influential people nowadays. As late as 2am now, all meetings today somehow ignite my 'forgotten' inner strength and a great sense of hope.
Getting back to my projection of those Khmer Rouge victims, I was very certain that I would hear a lot about anger and hatred. To my surprise, Mr. Youk Chhang, one of Time magazine's "100 Most Influential People" of 2007 and also whose sister was killed in front of his eyes under the Pol Pot regime showed a pity on the man who killed his sister in the past. 'I remember that he used to be very big and tall guy, but when I saw him during the event of Khmer Rouge trial, he was such a short and skinny guy now. He is just like any other farmer who has such a beautiful smile...'
Has he already forgiven this man?- No, he has not. He has been, in fact, always seeking for memories and justice. Nevertheless, his way of revenge makes it all different ... He has magically turned such a negative force to determination, passion and perseverance. I cannot tell how he could be able to do such; is it because of the Karma belief from Buddhism or it is just a natural process of moving on or both? Whatever it was, such a person like him can definitely reduce the impact of the genocide under the Khmer Rouge and help solve on-going issues in Cambodia.
Having a privilege to meet such a down-to-earth person like him face to face has reminded me various good human qualities, especially compassion!!!
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