God Grew Tired of Us

God Grew Tired of Us follows the journey of three Sudanese refugees, known as “Lost Boys,” as they navigate their new lives in the United States. It chronicles the experiences of John Bul Dau, Daniel Abul Pach, and Panther Bior, who were among the 25,000 young men forced to flee Sudan during the Second Sudanese Civil War in the 1980s.

The film begins by recounting the harrowing journey of these young men, who walked over a thousand miles to escape the violence in their homeland. They endured extreme hardships, including starvation, dehydration, and the constant threat of attack, before finding relative safety in Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp. After spending years in the camp, the three protagonists were among the 3,600 refugees selected for resettlement in the United States.

Upon arriving in America, John, Daniel, and Panther face the challenges of adapting to a completely foreign culture. The documentary captures their bewilderment and fascination with everyday aspects of American life, from using electricity and running water to navigating supermarket aisles filled with an overwhelming array of choices. Their struggles with loneliness and isolation are also portrayed, as they grapple with the stark differences between their communal Dinka culture and the individualistic nature of American society.

As the film progresses, it showcases the determination and resilience of these young men. Despite working long hours at multiple jobs, they remain committed to their education and to helping those they left behind. John Bul Dau, in particular, emerges as a powerful advocate for Sudanese refugees, even addressing United States senators on the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

The documentary also highlights the emotional journey of reconnecting with lost family members. John’s search for his mother and sister, who he had not seen in over a decade, culminates in a poignant reunion. This moment underscores the lasting impact of the war on families and communities.

Throughout God Grew Tired of Us, the contrast between the refugees’ past experiences and their new lives in America provides a unique perspective on both Sudanese and American cultures. The film sheds light on the values that the “Lost Boys” bring with them, particularly their emphasis on community, family, and friendship over material wealth.

The title of the documentary comes from a statement made by John Bul Dau, reflecting on the immense suffering he witnessed during the civil war. He expresses the belief that the atrocities might have been a final judgment because “God was tired of us,” tired of the evil actions of people.