To Forever Memories

This trip has made me realize that there is so much more to conflict. Conflict is not black and white, there is no such thing as right or wrong because one side will always believe that the other side is to blame. It made me realize that conflict is everywhere, and the way to peace will vary. However, even with conflict, Northern Ireland is still standing and one day the divide will end.

            The peace bridge does not only connect the city side and waterside, it connects two divided communities. The peace bridge is not just a breathtaking bridge its representing the future of peace with a structure that can be seen by all. To me it represents the future between the two communities not only here in Northern Ireland but the communities around the world that are divided. Another structure that resonated with me were the Walls of Derry. I was amazed that these walls have been standing here for over 400 years. These walls have been touched, walked on and seen by multiple generations. As you walked on the walls you can see the beauty of the architecture, the chipped parts and the different colors of the moss that grows. The wall itself brings history to life, it shows us the roots of the country . It was stunning to stand in a landmark that has so much history. As I walked the walls at night and looked out to the horizon, I ponder those who stood in the same spot imagining their future.

Another highlight of my trip would be the people. Even though I’m an extrovert in many forms. I did have a harder time talking to the locals. However, I realized that the first step is just sparking conversation and making a personal connection and from there the conversation can travel as far and wide as possible. I would say that the most memorable experience that I had was talking to Victoria from Theatre of Witness. Because of the personal connection we made we had a lovely conversation towards the future.  I also made a friend for life, we met during the Theatre of Witness workshop. Anna-lea is a wonderful human being, who strives to make a change in the world. It was a great experience to interact with others outside my comfort zone.

My experience in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland was amazing. I learned the step to peace is to listen, understand, to have dialogue by cross community and build organizations that support peace. The land and the people are resilient and because of that there is hope that one day the divide will be gone and the people of Northern Ireland will stand as one.