The best way to
understand the living and social environment of Bosnia is through the eyes of those
who witness it. Dragan is one of those
witnesses. He was 20 years old when the war began. He recalled how before the
war no one practiced religion publically and ethnic/religious differences were
not as important. In fact though he is Orthodox, one of his best friend, Sam,
was Muslim. They lived closed by to one another and grew up together sharing
and exchanging secrets as well as gaining standing invitations to one another’s
homes, even on religious holidays. Dragan would go over his friend Sam’s home
for Ramadan and Sam would come over Dragan’s for Christmas. Everyone coexisted
happily with one another until war came and drew dividing lines. Serbians ruled
the territory where they lived so when the war broke out many Muslims were
being targeted and attacked so Dragan help hide Sam; he even managed to help
him cross the border to a Muslim community where he would be safe. Dragan tried to stay in touch with Sam
despite the animosity that grew between the two groups. But the war’s influence
and all its hateful propaganda became too strong and the friends that were ones
considered brothers became enemies of war.
Their paths crossed
after the war. Dragan ran into Sam on his way out of the municipality. Sam was
with a group of friends. When Dragan tried to approach him to say hello, Sam
and his friends attacked him. Sam accused Dragan of being responsible for the
death of his brother. Their friendship was no longer significant. The bond that
was once so greatly valued was replaced by their ethnic titles. Past
relationships and experiences were no longer held importance. Identity defined
whether someone was a friend or a foe.
