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Memories and MeANING making in Benin

Updated: 3 days ago

What does a snake symbolise for you? Is it to be worshipped as a divinity, or to be demonised as the devil?


Challenging prejudices and decolonising our minds have been important themes during this profound journey with this wonderful group of 25 participants from over 10 countries on the African continent......as we participated in the Facilitator training with the Institute for the Healing of Memories, united by a desire as the Institute says: to 'contribute towards individual and collective healing that makes possible a more peaceful and just future...'


We shared our stories. We laughed together. We cried. We danced. We sang. We were touched heart-to-heart. 


We sang Christian songs. We honoured Voodoo practices at the Temple of the Python. We celebrated Muslim beliefs.


We walked in the steps of millions of slaves past the tree of return and the gate of no return. 


Oh, and Happy Birthday was sung to me in 10 languages!


Every person has a story and every story needs a listener. It is in telling our stories and having our pain acknowledged through the compassionate presence of others which enables us to take a step towards healing our personal and collective wounds.


Whilst our stories may differ from Rwanda to Niger and Senegal, from Canada to France and Luxembourg, what we share in common is our humanity and the belief that healing across cultures, countries and religions to create a more peaceful world is both necessary and possible. One step at a time.


It was an honour to be in the presence of the Founder of the Institute of Healing of Memories, Father Michael. I offer my deepest thanks to the team of facilitators and to the organisers from ACAT Benin.


And I hold dearly all the wonderful participants from across the continent, in particular those from the Senegal delegation Pascaly and Ines. And last but not least, to my mother, who brought the Healing of Memories into my life. 


With love and gratitude 💗



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