Brighter 6/8/15

Having it be my third time back to s-21 and the killing fields people may assume the horrors of the Khmer Rouge are less shocking. Yes i knew the violent acts and the statistics, but it still takes my breath away. The horrors Cambodians had to face is unimaginable and is still unrecognized today. No country offered a helping hand to end the regime after knowing the rumors of the violence was true and still many people don't know of the genocide. Years of suffering isn't recognizable as you walk through the streets, however, it is covered with smiling faces. The people of Cambodia are defined by the regime and want to remember those who were lost but want to move on into a new society no longer dragged down by the tragedy. My reaction may not be as surprised or torn down walking through these infamous sites as new comers, but my heart still does stop and I can't believe how most people don't know of this tragedy throughout the globe. Cambodia's future is looking brighter and brighter with each new visit. More buildings and infrastructure are being built and developed. I've seen trash cans and recycle cans placed in common town parts all signifying improvement. The dedication of all Cambodians for a better life is truly inspiring. "You reap what you sow," the basic principle of Karma and Buddhism comes to mind. Cambodians work hard and dedicate their life to whatever supports them all in the hopes for Cambodia to soon resemble how hard all citizens work in the development level of the country. Government and politics are still corrupt, but aren't they always? It is inspiring to see dedication depicted here and motivates me to try my best at all tasks that come my way. The busy city lights and noises remind me life can and will go on, as Cambodia is beginning to.