Occupation and threats from ISIS militants have forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes. One of the groups of people being displaced are Iraqi Christians. Despite being one of the oldest continuous communities of Christians in the world, their numbers have drastically declined in the past decades from 1.4 million to just around 300,000. As a group, they have suffered persecution and attacks from various military groups, though they were able to enjoy some protections under the secular regime of Saddam Hussein. In a meeting to address the needs of the displaced Christians, Archbishop Bashar Warda described them as "practical, energetic sorts."
His description is best exemplified in this interview with some of the displaced children. Though driven from their homes to live in refugee camps with limited infrastructure, the optimism and bright demeanor of these children are astounding. Myriam's strength of faith and character in the midst of the life upheaval she faces is a rare gem. What does she have to say about the group that drove her out of her home and away from her friends? Listen for yourself. I can't think of a better example of Christlike compassion.
What did you think of Myriam? Tell us your reaction in our comments section. Could you have been so compassionate at her age?