12 Comments

Speaking of enrichment, I continue to be enriched by your description all the things that go into into getting a story. They're much more than my naive notion that a reporter, usually dispatched by a powerful news organization, just shows up and takes notes. I'd never really considered the logistics and planning involved for freelancers, especially as it relates to personal safety. And I had no idea of the resourcefulness that the job demands, coming up with solutions such as finding a surrogate like Yves on short notice to serve as your eyes and ears (and nose) at a trial you knew you had to attend one way or another. Bravo!

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Great to hear!

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I absolutely agree with this comment.

I wasn't expecting this much when I subscribed.

Currently my favorite substack.

Giving me Chills alright!

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Wow, thank you. I'm so happy to hear that.

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Thanks for this continuing cliff hanger. Love Yves' drawing. Julie

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Can't wait to show you more! His talent is off the charts.

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Thank you Julie

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I am on the edge of my seat. This is riveting. Sometimes life puts the right people (Yves) in your path.

I wonder how attending the trial affected Yves.

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Good question. I'm going to interview him this week and will ask him. Yves, if you're reading these comments and can reply, go for it!

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Hello Naomi!

Well, I initially thought that, as I had already lived through two wars (the first one I was 5 years old, in 1996, and the other one, the "Mutebusi war"a few years later ) ; well, I thought I was already "armored" in some way. I had seen people injured and even died quite young, and I told myself that nothing more could impress me. I clearly was wrong.

When we learn that a little girl has been sexually abused by an adult, normally we are horrified by the mere mention of the fact! Now, when it comes to a father, who has small children himself, including little girls, one is doubly horrified! We dare not even imagine what these little beings must have felt when they opened their eyes in the dark, gripped by dirty and rough hands. Horror.

I had looked at the pictures of these small mutilated bodies, still bloody before they were treated. We don't forget this kind of thing! At the same time, I think I don't want to forget! I would like to keep in mind how far human stupidity can go when people are not educated, when they have not received a good education, or quite simply when they let themselves be taken in by a wacky guru. At least that will help me educate my boys on the attitude they should have with girls! well, if ever I have any !!

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You got me confused for a minute. I was like, he has kids?! I can't wait to show more of your work in my next post with our Q&A. Hope you're having a good evening. I miss the evenings in Bukavu.

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Thank you Yves! You give the story even mote intensity, if that is even possible. Your daughters are very very lucky to have you as a father. Also, your art is extraordinary.

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