On April 19, 2023, armed gangs attacked Source Matelas. Now, three years later, we remember that day through the voices of those who lived it. Today’s reflection is from Chrisnerlie, who was a 9th grader at Grace Emmanuel School when the shooting began less than half a mile away.

“I miss the school the most”

On April 19, 2023, I was at school. I had finished my exams early and went to sit under the church to wait for the bus.

Then I started to hear a lot of gunfire. I ran to find my mom (a school aide) and my little sister. We ran to Cabaret to save our lives.

The rest of the day was very frightening because I had family members who were still at my house in Source Matelas. The situation was very chaotic for everyone.

What has changed

Since that day, everything has changed. We lost everything we had, and life has been very difficult. We used to have more motivation and more hope for our future.

The way I used to live—I’ve never lived that way again. I miss the comfort I had and the good life I once knew.

I am still traumatized by how I lost my home. I never had the chance to go back for anything. All of my belongings were completely lost. I miss my house. I miss the school the most.

Hope

When the school reopened in Arcahaie, I felt comforted because I had expected to spend the rest of the year without going to school.

Though the situation is difficult for us, the school has never given up on us. It has stood by us in the same way it always has.

What I’ve learned

Going through these past three years has forced me to mature and learn how to carry myself in the midst of difficulties. I have not lost my capacity to work hard at school or my commitment to earning good grades. It has made me stronger and given me more confidence in myself.

I still have hope that I can work hard enough to achieve my dreams one day. I would like to become a surgeon.

To those who support Grace Emmanuel School, please continue your support. Without you, many children would never be able to go to school.