Ghosts of Toul Sleng, Harbingers of the Future
by ila | February 9, 2009 at 5:57 PM
ghosts_of_toul_sleng_139.jpgLife is so full here in Cambodia. Each day it doesn't seem possible that there could be more wonder to take in. From the heartbreak of the portraits at the genocide museum where over 17,000 Cambodians were tortured and eventually executed, in a former high school... to the uplifting voices and enthusiasm we witnessed from the children at the People's Improvement Organization, a school built for children living in and off of the garbage heaps of Phnom Penh. The still, stark faces of people that are no more left me sad of course, but detached - like a dream, here it was, it really did happen, but how could it be? But the live, sweet, focused faces of the PIO children as they danced with utter skill and conviction, imaging the tenuous support that keeps them in a classroom instead of milling through burning rubbish -- this is what moved me to tears.
pio_dancer.jpg
Comments
I love your use of these
I love your use of these photos Ila!
Each post you make about Cambodia is such a treat...keep em' coming!
hugs from ptown,
elsie
Hi Ila—sending love and
Hi Ila—sending love and support from your Portland team!
thanks, and sorry about the photo rotation!
I can't seem to get them to rotate properly when I upload, so please read while lying on your side. :) Also, if you click on them you will see them full size and properly oriented in a separate window. cheers!
ILA R. ASPLUND
c. (503) 320 - 8510
Portland, OR USA
skype: ila.asplund
ilaila.weebly.com
Witnessing
My dear Ila and all the travelers,
Each day I imagine you all together and am transported, moved, in tears and joy. You travel for all of us, see and feel for us. I send you all love and a big heart of gratitude...and can only imagine how full your hearts are!! , expanding love, understanding, action. Warmest thoughts and love, Ellen