The world knows Geneva as the “Capital of Peace.” True to its moniker it’s a city where the whole world comes together in peace. I’m grateful to have known this city and being able to appreciate its beauty that change with the light. However, as I retired to my hotel room after a busy day at work, I find myself watching a movie named “Desert Flower,” sandwiched between two world cup soccer matches. Soon enough my mind drifts to all the violence that goes on in the world … my heart bleeds and prays for peace.
Desert Flower depicts the journey of Waris Dirie (played by Liya Kebede) from a nomadic background in Somalia—circumcised at 3 and sold in marriage at 13—to a new life and career in the West as a fashion model and activist against female circumcision. Her journey from the deserts of Somalia to the podium of United Nations as a Special Ambassador symbolizes a strong will to fight for a better life—a life of dignity.
And invariably, as it has been happening for the past two months, my thought drifts to the girls in Nigeria … and I pray.
I pray that every one of us become an instrument of peace and follow in the footsteps of the Mahatma.
