I recently watched this amazing documentary about the Lost Boys of Sudan. For those of you who are unaware, there has been a civil war raging in Sudan for many, many years. After the government decreed that all southern male children were to be executed, thousands upon thousands of men, women and children began a trek across Sudan which eventually led them to Kakuma, Kenya. Since 1991, they have been living in exile in a refugee camp in Kakuma. The United States agreed to relocate some of these refugees. Today, they are living in 23 different states, each struggling to adapt, learn, and find ways to help their brothers and sisters who remain in exile to this day.
This movie follows the lives of three young men who leave Kakuma and establish new lives in Pittsburgh and Syracuse. In my opinion, this is one of the best cultural adaptation films I have ever seen. Although the permeating message is about the struggle of the Lost Boys of Sudan, I am amazed at what this film can teach us about ourselves, our culture as Americans and more. I found it challenging my beliefs on time management, work ethic, even how and why I celebrate Christmas.
As a missionary, I have been challenged many times with the need to adapt to a new culture. Although I have come from a land of privilege, I have still struggled to overcome myself and do more than just survive in a new environment. Watching these three Lost Boys struggle to become someone who can affect and influence change in a new and VERY different culture was incredible.
Ultimately, I would recommend this movie to anyone. You will be moved with compassion and challenged to do something…anything to make this a better world. Watch it today!
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