From Martyr's Day to Heroes Day in Two Days Time

The last day in India couldn't have been better! We were honored to be included in two ceremonies in recognition of Gandhi's assassination. One was at the site of his cremation in a beautiful park with a permanent memorial. The other wa at the site of his assassination at what is now a museum and institute for studying his life work. We were sitting within 10 feet of the Prime Minister, President, Vice-President, Minister of Defense and so on for both events. What was amazing was that each event included beautiful ecumenical prayers (we are all one even though we choose difference expressions of faith and hope) and Hindu music but notably no speeches. As Gandhi said, his life speaks for itself so additional words were not necessary. Can you imagine all of those dignitaries at one place in America and NO SPEECHES? The first day in Rwanda was a welcome surprise. Hotel Rwanda (really named Hotel des Mille Collines) is really lovely with beautiful vistas, great restaurant spaces, luxurious rooms and great food. Hero's day is the 15th anniversary of the beginning of the reconciliation effort in Rwanda. Every culture needs a hero, every hero needs a cause, and every cause requires sacrifice. It appears that not every leader can be a hero, but all have the capacity for heroism IF they find their calling and passion.