It was the best of times, it was the worst of times (Charles Dickens) #HaraHotel

I have written about #HaraHotel in previous posts, all written from the heart, trying to show individuals as they are… people not numbers. Those who have read those posts may be surprised by the title of this one – Hara Hotel was inhumane and torturous for those who lived there and even I, as a volunteer still bear the mental scars of that place after nearly 3 years. How could time spent there be seen as anything other than horrendous?

At Hara – the aim was to keep people alive and I am not using dramatic license. I am reminded of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs – many of the people here did not even have control over their basic needs after being forced to leave their homes – often having handed their life savings over to smugglers …and finding themselves in Europe but without food, water, warmth rest or shelter. Northern Lights Aid (a Norwegian grass roots organisation I worked with at Hara) worked so hard to provide these basic needs, I am still awe inspired by what they achieved during their time there, always trying to complete their work with dignity and respect.

I met my ‘adopted’ son Samer at Hara Hotel and in April 2016, we built a bond over only 10 days but knew that we would not lose touch. Over the years we speak sporadically, he has been through hell after escaping the war in Syria, experiencing the inhumanity of Europe … he reached Switzerland but has waited ever since with his life in limbo for his asylum to be accepted.

Samer and I would reminisce about Hara and the people we formed strong friendships with during that time. I can remember that time in exact detail; conversations, people, events .. and so can Samer. Obviously, he was there much longer than me.. but he also has vivid memories of each day – never to be forgotten memories of the place. He laughs now about the hardship – the cold, lack of food, tiredness, the day all his belonging were soaked when his tent leaked and yet…. he he more often speaks .. incredibly fondly and witg love of the people – from all over the world who came together to Hara Hotel when those with the power turned their backs.

We remember the horror of the place, but also the kindness and spirit. Walking through Hara always took longer than you planned, as you were ushered into tents for chats, chai and snacks.

Samer does not speak of the food these volunteers brought, or the clothes, or the tents, or the sleeping bags – these things were essential for survival of the body but the soul and mind needed compassion, understanding and solidarity .. this is what is remembered years after leaving the camp … how we worked together as a team, how we laughed together, how we supported each other, connected as human brings and how even in a place like Hara, you could make firm friends for life. We were a great team !

I wanted to write this post as a marker for a great occasion – yesterday after nearly 3 years in Switzerland Samer has finally received notification that his asylum application has been accepted. Those who know Samer, know his smile! But yesterday his smile was so different, so immense, expressing real joy and hope for the future. I am so happy for him …he can now take some control over his life. #stillbuzzing

For Samer – you are stronger than you think ..