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Open Arms
Open Arms
4 pages
Author: John Smith
COURAGE
KINDNESS
FARMER
VILLAGE
HERO
Summary
Rural Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979), where intense fear and secrecy dominate. A farmer lives under the constant threat of the Khmer Rouge, who enforce brutal policies against intellectuals, ethnic minorities, and anyone deemed counter to their regime. The farmer witnesses the arrest and disappearance of neighbors, realizing that the Khmer Rouge’s brutality could soon affect those he knows and cares about. He decides to act rather than stand by, initiating his resistance. The farmer begins secretly hiding families on his property, moving them at night and smuggling food. He faces immense risk, aware that being caught would lead to execution for him and everyone he’s hiding. Rumors circulate that villagers are betraying each other to save themselves. The farmer becomes increasingly paranoid but is determined to stay strong and support those hiding on his property. Soldiers arrive to search his home. In a moment of intense danger, the farmer keeps his composure, calmly engaging the soldiers in conversation to avoid suspicion while hiding his terror. The soldiers move on, narrowly missing the hidden families. After the soldiers leave, the farmer and the families he sheltered are left in a quiet, tense relief. The families decide to move on the next day to prevent further danger to the farmer. Survivors, inspired by the farmer’s courage, tell his story in whispered tones to others, spreading awareness about the possibility of resistance even under a brutal regime.
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