Saying Goodbye

Our trip to Belfast has been amazing. I was astonished by the resiliency of the people. Despite experiencing years of violence, trauma, and pain, the communities of Belfast have held on tightly to their sense of hope. Communities have taken a taken a stance towards peace and reconciliation. The pain and trauma of the past is still mourned, however communities are moving forward. Although there are reminders of the Troubles everywhere you look, all the people we’ve met are optimistic that things are changing for the better. I feel honored to have been able to hear the stories of those involved in the Troubles. It was the voice of these people that broke the silence that perpetuates oppression and violence. I will always remember the experiences that I’ve had here in Belfast. Most importantly, I will take what I’ve learned and apply it to my personal and professional life here in the United States. As Phillip of PIPs constantly preached to us, we should not be content with sitting in our offices with our certificates hanging above us. We have a responsibility to help those out in the community, and with their trust they will support us in making the future brighter.