Today the country is marking Heroes’ Day to celebrate those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Initially, the day was celebrated on October 1, the date the RPF launched its armed struggle to liberate the country. But a consensus was reached to place it on February 1 to bring on board many other unsung heroes. Many heroes are thus remembered today; from freedom fighters, protectors and those who paid the ultimate price in defence of democratic values and national cohesion. Heroic deeds should not be recognized only after someone has passed away. There are living heroes today who eke out a simple and nondescript living away from the spotlight. The old Genocide widow who struggled to raise her children singlehandedly and never gave up even for a day, is one of them. The child-headed households that, 20 years later, have evolved into upright young adults, are all a demonstration of our heroic values. It takes an extreme feat of heroism for a genocide survivor to reconcile with someone responsible for the deaths of their loved ones, but all the above manifested themselves in this country. This is a sign that there are hidden strengths that could use recognition. Today, as we mark Heroes Day at the village level, let’s give those virtues the thumbs-up they deserve and be acclaimed. There is a silent hero in your neighbourhood and this is a day to reach out to them. Show your appreciation for their struggle and instil self-sacrifice among our youth, for, in each of us, there is inner strength; it just needs to be coaxed out, to be appreciated.
