A week ago I returned from Srebrenica, Bosnia where I was involved in a social project initiated by Bauern helfen Bauern, that aims to provide new homes for people who were affected by the Bosnian war. I experienced a very thoughtful week with many emotional highs and lows. Visiting the Srebrenica Genocide Memorial in Potočari touched me so deeply that I couldn’t hold back my tears, something that hasn’t happened to me in many years.
One week later I’m here in the middle of Tuscany enjoying La Dolce Vita together with cycling enthusiasts from all around the world. The contrast could hardly be greater. People in Bosnia struggle in their daily lives carrying a heavy bag full of memories of a war that has torn their families apart. The massacre of Srebrenica took place many years ago but it is ever-present everywhere in Bosnia. Potočari is a strong reminder of how evil can be committed by mankind.
Here I am, enjoying a landscape that is actually not too different from the area around Eastern Bosnia. However, this years visit to Tuscany is different from an emotional perspective. Srebrenica taught me a lesson in modesty and humility. I feel blessed and grateful for all the opportunities life has offered me. Tomorrow, Srebrenica will be in my mind when I cycle more than 200 kilometres through the Tuscan hills. I will think of my daughters who are able to grow up in a safe and prosperous environment. At the same time I will remember those unemployed boys I met in a bar in Sarajevo who do not have the same opportunities in life. How many generations need to be lost before change can happen?
Next chapter: Why am I doing this?
Wow – well written my dear friend Ingo. I‘m honored being part of that group and the Srebrenica experience. You and all the other
teammembers will always have a special place in my heart as we went through this life changing week together. Thank you! #trueculturejourney