While travelling in Thailand I reached the High Life Bungalow in Haad Yao and happened upon ‘The girl in the picture’ which some kind soul I will never have the chance to thank had left for other travellers to read. Most people will recognise the image of Kim Phuc as nine year old child running naked screaming with her flesh on fire after a napalm attack on her village on the 8th June 1972 . Her story is truly inspirational.
I have a keen interest in photography and often pondered how
a war photographer can witness such horror and not help. The book helped me
reflect about the power of this photograph and the impact it had on subsequent events
and, indeed, how people understand the Vietnam war. The author of the photograph,
Nick Ut did take Kim to a local hospital where she had to endure horrendous
pain when her wounds were dressed and cleaned. Healthcare professionals were
certain she would die but remained committed to her care. Kim’s father remained
by her side, sometimes hiding under the hospital bed so he could remain near to
her.
The book collected not only Kim’s account but also those
around her at the time. Without exception people remarked upon Kim’s happiness
and warmth to others. Kim endured endless interviews; being used for propaganda
purposes which prevented her from studying. Kim chose who she trusted wisely to
enable her to lead the life she has today. She reported the strength she gained
from others in recognising herself as beautiful. She is now happy and safe with
a family of her own.
I was moved to tears in reading her commitment to peace and
forgiveness. There was no sense of anger or vengeance from Kim in anything I’ve
read about her or written by her. It
reminded of me of the importance of the healing power of love. Reading her
story and the work she does now to help victims is truly humbling. Thank you, Kim
Phuc, for being such an inspiration to me, and countless others. http://www.kimfoundation.com/
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