Goree Island

     I have visited many places through the years that have been memorable.  My recent visit to Goree Island will rank as one of the most memorable.  This island, off the coast of Dakar, Senegal, was the last stop for slaves before leaving for other lands.  The inhumanity of slavery became very real as our guide described what life was like for the slaves before they boarded a ship for unknown lands and I couldn't stop the tears from falling.  The rooms were small with little slits for windows.  Families were torn apart.  There were sections for the men, women, children, and young girls.  Babies were taken away from their mothers at nine to ten months of age.  There was a door that led from the building to a ledge at the water's edge.  It was called "the door of no return."  Once the slave passed through that door, they would walk a plank to a ship that would carry them to another world.  Some of the slaves would jump into the shark infested waters to die rather than board the ship.  Many of them would die on the ship before reaching their new lands.

Men's Quarters

"Door of No Return"

     Such cruelty to humans has existed throughout history.  I know that it will continue to be this way as long as we live in a fallen world.  This place will help me to remember that everyone has value in God's sight and I must treat them with respect.