May 2019, Fangak County.
"To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven." Her mom used to say: 'It is purposeful. Time gifted enables hope.' For a long time, Sonia's hope clashed with her purpose. It had taken the marshlands to produce meaning to the quote.
Early mornings before the camp awoke, she walked unencumbered around and drank the tranquillity it offered. In the background the patrol remained with her.
At first it amazed her how much freedom they allowed her as she explored the island. It was bigger than most and housed many refugees and people in the area. The simple life offered to them enough to make a living. The peace they experienced here differed greatly from the rest of the country.
Ever since she had arrived, she used the period to reflect. Although imprisoned she is not jailed; treated as a respected guest. It was these small favours that instilled gratefulness.