Back Home
Chandler Roberts offers a final reflection on Belmont in Africa 2010:
We’ve made it back safely from Africa! It’s nice to be home, but I’m still constantly thinking about all that I learned and experienced on our trip. I have come back to America with an entirely new perspective on the world around me. I am still processing all that I learned, and I think I will continue to do so for a long time.
Thursday, June 3 was a wonderful ending to the journey. We began with a sunrise safari where we saw dozens of zebra (pronounced zeh-brah), impala, and wildebeests. The most stunning find of the morning was four lions together: two males and two females. We returned to the resort and had a relaxing day with a full breakfast, massages, and a great closing class discussion. We went on one final game drive in the evening and were once again awed by the beauty of nature and the animals. Our final dinner was a bush braai (South African barbecue) prepared by the resort in the middle of the game park. We said a bittersweet goodnight and goodbye to Africa and woke up to begin our travels home.
Mocha Club has a t-shirt that says, “I need Africa more than Africa needs me.” That statement has taken on entirely new meaning for me. I began this trip with a very narrow view of Africa. I saw the continent as only a place that needed people like me to step in and help, and now I’m embarrassed by all that I didn’t see. Africa is no longer simply a place in need. There are many hurting people there who need love, but that is not all. Africa has many diverse faces. Africa is the sweet children at Educare in Cape Town who braided my hair and held my hands, and the hard workers at Learn to Earn who are making lives for themselves. Africa is the former residents of District 6 who were forced from their homes and continue to tell their stories so others will know the truth, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which models forgiveness for the entire world. Africa is found in the strong sense of Ubuntu (community) that is modeled by so many of its people. Africa is the many victims who suffered from genocide in Rwanda and the people of Zimbabwe who are struggling in a failing economy. Africa has stories to tell. Africa is a mixture of cultures, races, and narratives. It has so much to teach the Western world, and the sooner we begin seeing it as a place to join hands with, the sooner we will be changed.
Game Drives in Pilanesburg
Kit Canlas offers a report for Wednesday, June 2:
Today we left Botswana and headed for the beautiful Pilanesberg Game Reserve back in South Africa! It was only a couple hours away and the time flew quickly; fairly well sung throwback songs from the 90's and car talk accompanied us along the way. We got there in the early evening and got settled into our beautiful rooms at Bakgatla, which can be seen here if you wish (http://www.pilanesberg-game-reserve.co.za/accommodation/golden_leopard_bakgatla.html). It is a beautiful resort that sits on the game reserve. Once we were all settled in our rooms, we left for our very first game drive in hopes of seeing some wild life. Our wonderful driver gave us an hour and a half tour of the reserve, and we were able to see rhinos, elephants, giraffes, lionesses and impala all in one night! Tonight was just the first drive of many we will do while staying here, and we hope to see the rest of the big five before we leave. After that we headed to the restaurant for some dinner. It was supposed to be a buffet, but to our wonderful surprise, we ended up having a three course meal! I took advantage of this opportunity and had some rare meats on the menu, which included crocodile, kudu, and impala, all of which we very tasty. After we had our fill, we headed back to the rooms for a good night's rest and dreamed of our wildlife adventures to take place during our last few days in Africa!
Ubuntu & Love,
Kit
Wrapping Up
Stephanie Hall reflects on the activities of Monday, May 31:
I cannot believe we only have three days left in Africa after today! Though it felt like we would be here forever, the time has passed by very quickly. I know this doesn’t make much sense but it seems like since we’ve been in Botswana the days have gone by really slowly but the week has gone by really quickly. I think while we have all enjoyed being in Africa, we are also anxious to get home to our friends and family. I personally cannot wait to get off the plane in Nashville and be greeted by my family!
This morning my group continued our work at Holy Cross. Our goal today was to finish as much of the signs as possible. The original plan was to have Elli sketch the lettering and Sarah to sketch the logo while the rest of us painted in their work. Unfortunately, Sarah woke up sick this morning! She is feeling MUCH better though and has been a trooper! Don’t fret Sidwell family! Our team worked hard and Anna was able to do the lettering. Elli drew the arrows and Dr. Watts drew the logo on the largest sign we have to complete. Molly and I provided moral support and facilitation. 
We will be going to Holy Cross tomorrow to finish, which was not our original plan, but that will provide the opportunity to play with the kids again and try to invest a little bit more into their lives before we leave! TIA!
After working at Holy Cross we had lunch and freshened up to go to one last market for some shopping. It was very different from the markets we were exposed to in Cape Town. This one was attached to an art gallery and was indoors. It was more of a craft shop than a market. I very much enjoyed it though and was excited to see all the local art. My friends and family are going to get some pretty sweet stuff!
Following dinner tonight we had our regular class time. Before beginning our discussion Kit suggested that we have a moment of silence in honor of Memorial Day and in memory of the fallen soldiers that made our country what it is today. I was really glad that Kit brought it up because on multiple occasions on this trip I have found myself losing track of my days. I even thought to myself the other day, “Is my sister out of school for the year? What day is my cousin graduating from high school?” It’s a little crazy to me how much my daily thoughts have changed while being in Africa.
During class our journal prompt was introduced through a metaphor. Dr. Bowles explained to us that on the trip last year while stopping at a scenic pass overlooking Table Bay, a few members of the group convinced themselves that they saw a whale in the ocean. They announced this to their guide, the lovely Clynton, who quickly informed them that it was not a whale that they were seeing. It was simply waves crashing into a cluster of rocks to make it look like water was coming out of a whale’s blow hole. After presenting this to us Dr. Bowles asked us to think of a time on this trip when we have been deceived by our own eyes or convinced ourselves of something and only after gaining more knowledge or information about it did we realize we were being deceived. I’d like to share a few of the thoughts that were discussed as a result of this journal prompt:
• When we first learned about Educare we were told that about one third of the children there either have or are directly effected by HIV/AIDS and may not live to their next birthday. We dismissed these facts as soon as we started forming relationships with the children and it was only when it was brought up after that we remembered this information. During our discussion we realized the reason we are easy to dismiss facts like these is because the age of the people they effect is so young and also that we had formed relationships with them.
• In our first formal class we asked ourselves if there were evident effects of apartheid. We had not been in Cape Town for very long and the majority of the people we had come into contact with were those whose job it was to be hospitable and kind to us. We had yet to go into the informal settlement of Capricorn and have women gesture at us to leave partially because of the fact that we were white. Only then did it hit us that the effects of apartheid are still extremely present in South Africa.
• When we first discussed our experience of being in the townships we said that even though the residents of these communities were facing extreme poverty, they still looked very happy. As we read through our texts such as Kaffir Boy, Ubuntu, and No Future Without Forgiveness we quickly realized that it is very difficult to have ubuntu in extreme poverty since if one person is oppressed or is facing injustice, the whole community is diminished.
These discussions really help me process everything that I have learned so far through this experience. I still have a lot of processing to do and I know it will continue when I return home as my lifestyle slowly changes because of it. The way I treat people, how I perceive things, and how I live my daily life will radically change.
Love from Botswana,
Stephanie
Dr. Musa Dube
Sarah Sidwell reflects on Sunday, May 30:
Sunday was a very relaxed day. We got up early and headed to a local church where we were expecting to attend a 10:15 English service. However, upon arriving we found out that they had done away with the English service and we were an hour late for the Setswana service. So we decided to turn back around and stop at the grocery store on the way home. Somewhere along the way, we decided to hold our own church service and have Dr. Watts deliver the message. Dr. Watts raised some very compelling questions and many very valid points that were quite applicable to what we are experiencing here in Botswana and South Africa through a passage reading of Mark chapter twelve. He caused me, and I believe the entire group, to again see the importance of understanding the context of a situation or person before making any judgments or assumptions.
When we returned back to the lodge we had a relaxing afternoon of catching up on reading and journaling.
During dinner, which as always took place around our beloved campfire, we were joined by Dr. Musa W. Dube, who is a professor here in Botwana and received her doctorate degree from Vanderbilt University. While on our trip we have read two of Dube’s works: “50 Years of Bleeding,” and “Fighting with God.” In Africa, Dube is a strong activist for AIDS victims and works hard to educate and encourage people to do their part in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Dube, whose education taught her how to look at things through a biblical perspective, said that when she arrived back to Botswana was hit full force by the shock of the beginning of the AIDS epidemic and did not know how to deal with AIDS in from a biblical standpoint. So, as she began teaching at the university, in a time period when the stigma of having AIDS was even stronger than it is now, she taught in a way that was relevant to her students by confronting the ignored problem of AIDS and encouraging them to find a biblical way of dealing with AIDS. (Quick history: Botswana has the highest percentage of people affected by AIDS in the world. 36% of the “sexually active population” in Botswana is affected by AIDS. In 2002, there were 13.2 million children orphaned by AIDS—which was prediced to double by 2010. AIDS orphans are subject to many injustices, such as sexual abuse, being forced to drop out of school to care for siblings, and isolation because of the stigma AIDS has, just to name a few). If any of you are interested in Dube’s conclusion on how to biblically help AIDS orphans, I would encourage you to read “Fighting with God: Children and HIV/AIDS in Botswana.” It is incredibly moving and thought provoking.
At dinner, Dr. Dube shared some of her wisdom and conclusions on how everyone can do their part in the battle against AIDS, not only in Africa, but also world wide, and why everyone should do their part.
First: Why should we all help in the fight against AIDS?
“If one person suffers, we all suffer. If one person is HIV positive, everyone is HIV positive. WE are all part of the Body of Christ and if one part of the body has AIDS, then the whole body has AIDS. This way of understanding and thinking should close the gap between people and create a solidarity.”
This was a revolutionary way of thinking about the Body of Christ for me. It emphasizes our responsibility to one another as human beings and shows the importance of a community that cares for each other.
Second: “How can I help in the fight against AIDS?”
“If you are a doctor, musician, preacher, artist, anthropologist, education, scientist, etc… Do your work in your area where you are trained. Figure out how you can do your part. Everyone must contribute in their specialized area to get every part/area covered.” Every skill is valued.
This way of thinking opened my mind to realize that just because I’m not a doctor or just because I’m not at a point in life where I can donate a lot of money, doesn’t mean I can’t do my part in fighting against AIDS and caused me to begin thinking where my specific part might be.
Near the end of our talk with Dr. Dube, she referenced a verse: “…for I was hungry, and you didn’t give me food to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me no drink; I was a stranger, and you didn’t take me in; naked, and you didn’t clothe me; sick, and in prison, and you didn’t visit me.”
Through this she enforced what we have been learning every day of this trip: the importance of community, the importance of taking action, the importance of loving people—but not simply in a sentimental or romantic way—in a way that isn’t always easy or comfortable, that isn’t afraid of taking an unpopular stance. Loving in a way that many of us have grown idle to.
Dube references Mark 9:33-37: “The disciples were arguing among themselves concerning who was the greatest. In response, Jesus said to them, ‘If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and servant to all.’ He then took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me’.” Dube further explains, “ … The key point in this passage lies in the word ‘welcoming.’ When you welcome someone into your house, place or heart, you make them comfortable. You give them a place. You protect them and ensure that their needs are met. This is what ‘welcoming…’ means. That is how we should “welcome” those suffering from this disease.
I am so grateful that Dr. Dube took the time out of her busy schedule to come around our campfire and share (she literally arrived in Botswana just a few hours earlier, after presenting a paper in Switzerland on HIV/AIDS.) I truly believe we were all touched by her words of wisdom.
Dr. Musa Dube
Sarah Sidwell reflects on Sunday's activities:
Sunday was a very relaxed day. We got up early and headed to a local church where we were expecting to attend a 10:15 English service. However, upon arriving we found out that they had done away with the English service and we were an hour late for the Setswana service. So we decided to turn back around and stop at the grocery store on the way home. Somewhere along the way, we decided to hold our own church service and have Dr. Watts deliver the message. Dr. Watts raised some very compelling questions and many very valid points that were quite applicable to what we are experiencing here in Botswana and South Africa through a passage reading of Mark 12. He caused me, and I believe the entire group, to again see the importance of understanding the context of a situation or person before making any judgments or assumptions.
When we returned back to the lodge we had a relaxing afternoon of catching up on reading and journaling.
During dinner, which as always took place around our beloved campfire, we were joined by Dr. Musa W. Dube, who is a professor here in Botwana and received her doctorate from Vanderbilt University. While on our trip we have read two of Dube’s works: “50 years of Bleeding,” and “Fighting with God.” Throughout the African continent, Dube is a strong activist for AIDS victims and works hard to educate and encourage people to do their part in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Dube, whose education taught her how to look at things through a biblical perspective, said that when she arrived back to Botswana, she was hit full force by the shock of the AIDS epidemic and did not know how to deal with AIDS from a biblical standpoint. So, as she began teaching at the University, in a time period when the stigma of having AIDS was even stronger than it is now, she taught in a way that was relevant to her students by confronting the ignored problem of AIDS and encouraging them to find a biblical way of dealing with AIDS. (Quick history: Botswana has the highest percentage of people affected by AIDS in the world. 36% of the “sexually active population” in Botswana is affected by AIDS. In 2002, there were 13.2 million children orphaned by AIDS—which was prediced to double by 2010. AIDS orphans are subject to many injustices, such as sexual abuse, being forced to drop out of school to care for siblings, and isolation because of the stigma AIDS has, just to name a few). If any of you are interested in Dube’s conclusion on how to biblically help AIDS orphans, I would encourage you to read “Fighting with God: Children and HIV/AIDS in Botswana.” It is incredibly moving and thought provoking.
At dinner, Dr. Dube shared some of her wisdom and conclusions on how everyone can do their part in the battle against AIDS, not only in Africa, but also world wide, and why everyone should do their part.
First: Why should we all help in the fight against AIDS?
“If one person suffers, we all suffer. If one person is HIV positive, everyone is HIV positive. WE are all part of the Body of Christ and if one part of the body has AIDS, then the whole body has AIDS. This way of understanding and thinking should close the gap between people and create a solidarity.”
This was a revolutionary way of thinking about the Body of Christ for me. It emphasizes our responsibility to one another as human beings and shows the importance of a community that cares for each other.
Second: “How can I help in the fight against AIDS?”
“If you are a doctor, musician, preacher, artist, anthropologist, education, scientist, etc… Do your work in your area where you are trained. Figure out how you can do your part. Everyone must contribute in their specialized area to get every part/area covered.” Every skill is valued.
This way of thinking opened my mind to realize that just because I’m not a doctor or just because I’m not at a point in life where I can donate a lot of money, doesn’t mean I can’t do my part in fighting against AIDS and caused me to begin thinking where my specific part might be.
Near the end of our talk with Dr. Dube, she referenced a verse: “…for I was hungry, and you didn’t give me food to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me no drink; I was a stranger, and you didn’t take me in; naked, and you didn’t clothe me; sick, and in prison, and you didn’t visit me." Through this verse she enforced what we have been learning every day of this trip. The importance of community, the importance of taking action, the importance of loving people—but not simply in a sentimental or romantic way—in a way that isn’t always easy or comfortable, that isn’t afraid of taking an unpopular stance. Loving in a way that many of us have grown idle to.
Dube references Mark 9:33-37: “The disciples were arguing among themselves concerning who was the greatest. In response, Jesus said to them, ‘If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and servant to all.’ He then took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me’.” Dube further explains, “ … The key point in this passage lies in the word ‘welcoming.’ When you welcome someone into your house, place, or heart, you make them comfortable. You give them a place. You protect them and ensure that their needs are met. This is what ‘welcoming…’ means. That is how we should “welcome” those suffering from this disease.
I am so grateful that Dr. Dube took the time out of her busy schedule to come around our campfire and share (she literally arrived in Botswana just a few hours earlier, after presenting a paper in Switzerland on HIV/AIDS.) I truly believe we were all touched by her words of wisdom.
It Never Rains in Botswana…
...or so they say--until Belmont students arrive. Yesterday morning, after nothing but sunshine and heat waves for a few days, it decided to start raining on us. Our first stop of the day was the Three Kings monument, which briefly covered some of the very first settlers and history here in Botswana. Upon our arrival, there was another group of local Botswana students who out of nowhere came up to us and wanted to slap high fives and then take pictures with us. I think we were all a little confused and overwhelmed by the sudden “attack,” so we just went with the flow and embraced the whole situation. All in all, it was fun and strange all at the same time.
Our next stop was Oodi Weavers, where there were lots of beautiful handcrafted rugs, wall designs, draperies, and bedspreads made from merino wool on traditional looms. Some of the pictures and themes within these rugs were extraordinary, especially considering the fact that each element of these works has to be handcrafted by sections using the right colors in the right place, all while weaving from the backside of the work--it is definitely an art that takes some patience, practice and natural skill. Our tour guide informed us that most pieces that had pictures or themes on them took about a month total to create, so clearly with such a large time investment involved, the artists depend on patrons who appreciate their hard work to help support them and their families.
As the day continued and we headed on to our next destination: the Phudthadikobo Tribal Museum--but we stumbled upon a real life tribal meeting taking place. The tribe was the Mochudi Tribe and many were dressed in their ritual/tribal gear consisting of animals that the tribesmen had killed themselves, including lamb skins, leopard skins, lion skins, etc. It was pretty incredible to see an actual tribal meeting. The turnout of people was pretty amazing in itself, and it was fascinating to see that this way of life still works for many people. We were informed by our guide that a member of the Chief's regiment was allowing us a safe passage to the museum, but that we would have to be quiet and go on an alternate route because in their culture you must first be welcomed and accepted by the tribe before you are allowed to sit in on one of their meetings. Thus, we walked around the perimeter to ensure that we could not hear or interrupt anything that was taking place in their meetings. Our guide explained to us that we would have to listen to what the regiment member said because if we were to interrupt or disobey any tribal laws, we could potentially be flogged or beaten for our defiance. So once making it through the alternate route, we were on our way to the museum which sat on the top of the hill and was filled with many ancient artifacts and historical memorabilia donated by several locals and surrounding townspeople. The museum was not only very informative, but fascinating with all of the wonderful pieces of artwork, culture, pictures and early equipment that it held.
From what I have observed so far, it appears that Botswana is still in a struggle to improve the lives of its citizens and figure out where they want to be as a society. I have to admit though that I’m still not quite sure what I think of Botswana or the people and culture, so I don’t think I can finish this blog with a final thought as to where I stand yet. As a Westerner I think it’s easy for me to point my finger and say a particular custom is wrong or crazy, but in reality, who am I to say that our way is the right way just because it’s what we’re used to? I guess I will have to give it some more time to sink in before I decide what to think of our journey here in Botswana.
Toys, Tsotsis, and TIA
Today's reflection is written by Elli Johnston:
Today my group went back to the Holy Cross preschool to finish painting the road signs. Upon arrival, we realized that we had a few more coats of white paint to do before we could start the lettering. Dr. Watts left to get paint and the children were inside for class, so our small group of five decided to spend our time wisely--and so the dance party began. Bringing to Botswana the likes of Selena Gomez, the Jonas Brothers, and Justin Beiber, our group let loose and had fun before getting down to business.
Once Dr. Watts returned, we got to work and finished the final coats of paint so that Monday we can start and finish the lettering. Since we had to wait for the paint to dry, we had time to spend with the kids during their free time. Yesterday, one of the girls and I played karate by mimicking each others moves. Today I let another Belmont student play karate, and I played hula hoop with a different little girl. For an entire hour I tossed the hula hoop back and forth for this girl, only to take short breaks to play hand games. As I reflect on our free time today I realize how pitiful their playground is. The children that we work with are either orphans due to AIDS or possibly infected themselves. For them to be running around and playing on rusty slides and monkey bars that are barely staying together is wrong. These children are going through something that I will never have to go through in my life, yet they’re content playing with a hula hoop for an hour.
It makes me question our role as human beings. Although we live in our safe little American bubble, are we not called as children of God to reach out to our brothers and sisters all over the world? Why is it that so many children are living far more difficult lives than those in our very homes, yet our children are the ones with toys overflowing the toy bin? It’s frustrating how messed up the roles are. It should be reversed--the children who are living with AIDS or living without parents due to AIDS should have the extra love and attention. I am trying to reflect upon why it is that way, why the children who need the most help, the most love are almost always the ones without. Is it because we’re too scared and too afraid to leave our safe world to go out and spread the love that we have been so gracefully given? I’m not sure what the real answer is, I just know that something needs to change.
After our time with the kids, we headed back for lunch and then were off to hike one of the hills that overlooks Gaborone. However, shortly after we left the van in search of the path up the hill--which we weren’t sure even existed--a man drove by and warned us not to go up. The man said there were tsotsis up in the hills. Tsotsis is an Afrikaans word for thief or robber. We listened to the man but kept walking, but he then drove by again saying we mustn’t go up because it was too dangerous. We decided to listen and turn around. Maybe there weren’t actually tsotis up in the hills, or maybe there were. We decided to call it a message from God and obey.
Botswana is a lot slower paced than Cape Town was, but in a way it’s kind of nice. We don’t have to wake up as early or take as many tours, and there's more down time to hang out and enjoy each others' company. We definitely have a lot of unique personalities on this trip which, in my opinion, has made this trip even more fulfilling. I am learning to look at everyone with eyes of love and appreciate them for the person God has made them.
With love from Botswana,
Elli
Similarities and Differences
Today's report comes from Laura Cebula:
Today we began our service work in Botswana. Half of our group went to work at Holy Cross Hospice Preschool to paint road signs for them and the other half went to Kamogelo Preschool. Working with the children in Botswana has been very different than working at the school in South Africa. The most drastic difference has been the language barrier. In South Africa, the children knew enough English that we could teach, play, and converse relatively easily. At Kamogelo, however, the children did not know as much of our language--and we knew very little of theirs--which made it almost impossible to communicate verbally with them. In the car ride over, Dr. Watts and our driver, Patrick, taught us useful words, such as “look” and "listen." Even though we knew a few words is Setswana, it was still hard to communicate with the children.
Another difference is the classroom structure. At Educare in South Africa, the teachers had an overwhelming amount of responsibilities besides teaching, like cleaning and cooking. At Kamogelo, the teachers only had to teach and therefore didn’t seem as stressed out or frantic. Also, the children seemed better behaved and followed directions better. This is probably because the teachers are able to give the kids their full attention while in the classroom.
A third difference is the children themselves. Overall, the children at Kamogelo are more independent than the kids at Educare. The children at Kamogelo weren’t as eager to jump on us and give us hugs and kisses. At recess they were able to occupy themselves more the most part and did not rely on the volunteers and teachers to push them on the swings or play with them. In my opinion, the reason the kids at Kamogelo were more independent may have to do with the fact that they are mostly all orphans and might not have had the same attention from parents or family the kids at Educare had.
The two schools were also similar in a few ways. The whole environment of the schools were both very laid back. Though the goal of both of them is to prepare the children for primary school, the teachers were not under any pressure to get work done. During one activity today at Kamogelo, two groups of children were expected to sit in their chairs while one group colored in an assignment.
This relates to another similarity between the two schools: both are in need of basic supplies. The reason only one group of students could color the assignment at a time is that the teachers did not have enough red crayons for all the children. At Educare, I remember they did not have enough pencils for all the kids and they used the back of recycled paper for class work.
Tonight we are going to the local mall to see a movie. It’s amazing that the people of Gaborne live in small, shack-like houses and have goats and cows, yet go to American-like malls and watch American movies. The tension between traditional African life and the Western world is much more visible here in Gaborne than it was in Cape Town, most likely because Botswana was not colonized by Europeans like South Africa was.
Learning About Ubuntu
Wednesday's reflection comes from Anna Cox:
This morning we woke up leisurely and had breakfast around the campfire at Mokolodi Backpackers’ Lodge in Gaborone. We are experiencing a completely different atmosphere here than we did at The Team House in Cape Town. Our group is separated by groups of three into small huts with bunk beds. At any point in time, one may run into chickens, a rooster, potbellied pigs, or rather large bush dogs. We have experienced a lot more of the saying that we heard on our first night in Africa—“T.I.A.” (This is Africa) in regards to the laid back atmosphere.
Midmorning, we loaded up to check out the service sites that our group will begin working with tomorrow. First we made our way to Kamogelo, which is a Catholic daycare center that focuses on children who have been directly affected by HIV/AIDS. It was a good thing that we checked in today because Sister Margaret, the principal, did not know that we were coming tomorrow (T.I.A.). After checking in at Kamogelo, we made our way to Holy Cross Hospice, an Anglican hospice and day care center that, again, works with children who are affected by HIV/AIDS. This was an adventure in itself. No one really knew where we were going, but everyone figured that the facilities would be easy to find--unfortunately, that was not the case. We stopped to ask for directions, and a gentleman who thought he knew the way hopped into the van. He took us to the Holy Cross Hospice Center, but the child care center was housed somewhere else. The gentleman who led us to the hospice center quietly snickered, shrugged his shoulders, and got out. A volunteer from Holy Cross then got in the van and showed us the way to the child care center. This whole communal involvement and aid is a concept quite foreign to people living in the self-centered Western world. It would be nearly impossible in America to find someone to hop in a van full of foreigners and lead them to their destination. This concept that is embedded in African culture is known as Ubuntu.
After finding the locations of where we will be spending tomorrow morning, we headed to the mall to let our tour guide, Kiffy, buy groceries because he will be preparing our meals for the next week. While in the mall, I was noticing all of the Western influences, which I thought I had left behind in Cape Town. There was a movie theater playing movies that are currently out at theaters in the states, clothes that are very similar to ones found at many stores in America, and a bookstore that had mostly books in English, even though the main language in Botswana is Setswana.
After a quick lunch, we then went to the Botswana National Museum, which told of the cultural and archeological history of the area. The museum was quite small for holding the title of “National Museum” and could be passed through in about an hour. The museum went from the beginning of civilization in the area, about 200 A.D. and focused on the wildlife that inhabit the area, rather than the groups of people who began to settle there, which sheds light to the country itself, I think. After we finished at the museum, we walked around the center of town through a market. This market experience was also very different than Green Market Square in Cape Town. It was more relaxed and much smaller. Even though we were in the heart of Gaborone, it did not feel like a large city. Gaborone is the largest city in the wealthiest nation in Africa, but it does not have large buildings and has few similarities to large cities in the Western world.
Ubuntu is a concept that we have been discussing quite frequently on this trip, and is the subject of one of our texts, by Michael Battle. At the center of ubuntu is the statement, “I in you and you in me,” which is a concept that focuses on communal living and always helping each other instead of worrying about one’s own self interest. Battle states, “Rather than reinforcing competitive ways of knowing self, Ubuntu offers a way of discovering self-identity through interdependence”. I look forward to learning about and witnessing Ubuntu and Botswana more as the week goes on.
Looking Forward, Looking Back
Molly Tarr brings us Tuesday's report:
After a short flight and a six hour drive, we made it to Gaborone, Botswana! We were all sad to leave the Team House and our experience behind, but during our drive I finally had time to process everything that we witness and participated in while in Cape Town. In Botswana we are staying at Modoloki Backpackers, which caters to the needs of game hunters, so this is truly a unique experience. At the airport we were met by our new guide Kieffy and driver Patrick. Today was more of a day to rest up on the bus and reflect on our time in Cape Town.
One experience that stuck out the most for me occurred on our second day of working at Noordhoek Educare. While class time had just begun and we were trying to settle down the children somewhat, Pat--the leader of Educare--pulled us volunteers out of class. I was kind of confused at first, thinking maybe we had done something wrong, but those fears were quickly dismissed. She told us that, while walking across the play area that morning, she had felt an overwhelming presence from the Lord. Pat proceeded to tell us how she felt the Lord was giving her a message to give one of us, but she had no idea who. “One of you has been praying for some time about your future but got no response because it wasn’t your season. Now is your season so keep seeking Him,” Pat encouraged us. This really hit home to me because it was the place in my life where I feel I am currently. I am about to start my senior year and know that many important decisions will be soon coming my way, but this word from her gave me assurance. The part of her conversation with us though that struck me the hardest, though, was about the World Cup. “Everyone is excited for the World Cup to come here, but not me. I wish all these people were coming here to help South Africans because there is so much to do,” said Pat. This really hit home because she made such a valid point that people are willing to spend so much money to watch one game of football, but nothing for these people who so desperately need it. Of the children we worked with, one third either have HIV/AIDS, or their parents are afflicted with this disease. Also, two to three children from Noordhoek Educare die each year from preventable diseases. After developing relationships with these people it really struck a nerve in me. I wish there was a way I could help more, but for now I can do one thing: pray. I challenge you to do the same. Whenever you take your time to pray just say an extra blessing for the people--and especially the children--of South Africa.
Last Day in Cape Town
Like all great things eventually do, we are now at that point where our journey here in Cape Town must come to an end. I think it's safe to say that, before coming here, none of us could have anticipated or been prepared for the people, culture, activities, sites, and events that would soon follow and that have now filled us with great insight into another country's way of life. From getting to walk on the same ground as Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, to the breath-taking views of Table Mountain, to the final days spent with the EduCare kids, I think we have all experienced some very extraordinary things here in Cape Town, which have definitely been a once in a lifetime kind of opportunity.
While reflecting on our time spent here in South Africa I think all of us have gained a greater knowledge, love, understanding, and appreciation for the people and culture here. This place has shown us what the true meaning of "Ubuntu," or the African way of seeing the world and the people in it by creating a web of relationships within a community. Utilizing a philosophy such as Ubuntu helps to bring the community as a whole together with the simple idea that "I am because we are," something that I have seen to be a continuing theme here.
From the Team House, to the communities and townships that we visited, to the kids that we have worked with, to the church service that we attended--I can't help but feel a sense of community and closeness among many of the people here in South Africa because it is present almost everywhere. When I'm immersed into such a way of living and thinking, I reflect on my own life and community and wonder why many of us do not have the same type of ideals or harmony with other human beings, and that's when I realize that we may just have a few things that we could learn from the people of South Africa.
As this night slowly winds down and we are all scrambling to get our things packed for Botswana tomorrow for yet another week filled with fun, work, education and adventures, we cannot forget the many things that we have already learned and been exposed to while here in South Africa. South Africa has been a world very different from our own, yet very similar in how we are all trying to find our place in the world and understand where we belong in the grand scheme of things in regards to God's master plan, while searching to someday live in a place of harmony and equality where all people--regardless of their race, sex, gender or orientation--will be welcomed with open arms.
Worship, Penguins, and Cape of Good Hope
When I saw the schedule for today on our original itinerary, I knew it was one that I would anticipate the entire trip. We started our day by attending Masiphumelele Baptist Church. As some of the other members of our team have mentioned, Masiphumelele is a township. On our way to church, our lovely guide Clynton informed us that the church has faced some hardships over the years. During the peak of the life of the church a tragedy took place. The equivalent of the senior minister was murdered in the church by someone who came to seek counseling. Since then, the congregation has dwindled and has struggled to stay on its feet.
The emotions displayed by the congregation were the complete opposite of mourning and hopelessness. Though we were a rather large group of all white people coming into a congregation of black people, everyone we made eye contact with waved or said good morning to us. The majority of the service was done in the Xhosa language, but even though I had no idea what the lyrics to the songs were or what everyone was saying, I was completely overwhelmed by the presence of God. I consider myself to be a somewhat emotional person, but rarely do things bring me to tears. Today was an exception. I'm not sure exactly what brought the tears on. Maybe it was just being overwhelmed by the presence of God. Maybe it was seeing how joyful the congregation was even though our whole team knew they probably have faced more in a year than we will in our entire lives. Maybe it was the sense of community that poured throughout the congregation. God only knows, but needless to say, it was an amazing experience.
At my church in Nashville, Crosspoint Community, music is a major element of the worship. Singing has always been the main way that I worship, but I realized today since I couldn't begin to understand the lyrics to the words that were being sung, I had to find a new way. Dancing was a large part of the worship service, along with clapping. I've never been a dancer, but today I was swaying along and clapping more than I normally do. I also enjoyed that members of the congregation came up to give their testimonies and give encouragement to the other members. That part of the service was translated. Also one song was done in English. The words were, "Remember me/ Almighty God." It was simple, but I think it's something that will stick with me for the rest of the trip.
After church we traveled to Simon's Town for lunch. Clynton, Lacey, Laura, Anna, Chandler, Sarah, and I ate together. Our lunch took a while, and unfortunately we weren't able to see much of the town, but it was interesting because it was heavily influenced by the British and I felt like I was in a little town by the sea in England.
Following lunch we drove into Table Mountain National Park to Boulder Beach to see PENGUINS!!! Penguins are my favorite animal, and I had been awaiting the day I would see them in their natural habitat.We were informed that we would be able to step on the beach with them and potentially be within an arms distance from them. While we weren't able to touch them, they were still extremely cute! I learned from the brochure given to us that penguins have very sharp beaks and can cause serious injury if they bite or lunge, so it's probably a good idea we weren't able to get too close. I definitely would've taken one home with me if possible! We were able to walk down a boardwalk and see an entire family of penguins hanging out on the beach. There were little babies and penguins swimming in the ocean! I took plenty of pictures so I won't forget the experience.
We went to the Cape of Good Hope after Boulder Beach. Here we had the opportunity to hike up to the top and see the lighthouse or down to the Cape or both. I chose to just go up to the lighthouse. It was a much more difficult hike than I had anticipated. Everyone who joined me was out of breath by the time we got to the top! Molly, Clynton, and I drove down to the Cape to meet the others. We finished our day out by taking a picture behind the sign that told us that the Cape of Good Hope is the most southwestern point of Africa.
I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds for us!