THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTOGRAPH

I posted this picture a couple of days ago, joining with Rohingya refugee, Ro Ibrahim, to draw the world’s attention to one of the many natural disasters that happen in the Rohingya refugee camps—one that has just caused a lot of damage and loss of life.

Word came from some, not believing the picture was an untouched photograph. It was not trusted and could cause the whole story to be ignored or considered unimportant. And so, the people who so badly need to be heard, come to be heard even less.

In this crooked world of today, the mistrustful attitude by so many is very unfortunate. Because too often significant realities are shrugged off and not receiving the attention they should.

The person who took this picture was Shahida Win. Here’s what she tells about her picture:

“I took a photo when there was a flood – a huge flood, the biggest flood we have ever faced in the camp – in 2021. We could not go from one shelter to another shelter because the water level was very high. At the time, I could see one of the old ladies from my neighborhood. She had come from her shelter and was standing on the road, but the water level was up to her chest. And she was calling me, ‘Shahida! Take my photo and tell the people how we are.’ The lady was telling me to take a photo so that I could share this story: We are genocide survivors and we have been going through a lot of hard times, but still we have to face all these natural disasters also. When I see her, she is old but still she has hope. And I really felt broken after seeing her situation. That is the photo, you know, that I can not forget.”

To me, this photograph is one of the best and most honest depictions of the Rohingya people’s situation. With nowhere to go. No help in sight. A most vulnerable people. Truly an example of man’s inhumanity to man. I’ve heard some blame God for the chaotic state of the world. But I believe mankind is to blame.

Some think that it’s up to us human beings—all of us flawed people—to solve the world’s problems. But we have proven that trying to do it by ourselves only creates greater messes. There has to be a better way.

I believe the story—a true story—about a man who came to earth two thousand years ago who did great things—the greatest being the love and acceptance he showed to those most rejected by the world. He was a real person, written about, even in secular history books. His Spirit of love is still with us today. This love has the power to overcome hatred.

He showed his love to all—no matter their background, their language, or how they worshiped. He loved unconditionally. When we try to follow his example, I honestly believe a better world would become possible. I believe a pathway to peace will open up.

This person’s name is Jesus—God for some, a Prophet for others. But without doubt, the best example this world could follow. . . And Jesus and his truth can be trusted.

marja