The end of a journey

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

Molweni!

 I haven’t posted for a week, so this is a monster blog post- bear with me. On Tuesday of this week, we traveled to the District 6 Museum. This museum was established in honor of the people who were forced out of District 6 in Cape Town during apartheid.  The area was made into an all white area, so any black or “colored” (official South African term for the country's mixed descent inhabitants) people were forced out. Many of them were forced from happy lives into overcrowded townships far away from their work, schools, and friends. Communities were disrupted and displaced. They had a huge cloth with many embroidered messages from former district 6 residents. They were heart wrenching to read. A couple that stood out to me: “We all grew up as a family (all races) Life was beautiful then. And the gates of memory never close.” And “Happy days. District 6- Living was cheap, life precious. Now in Hanover Park Living’s expensive and Life is cheap.” One of the program’s drivers, Kimie, grew up in District 6 and his family was removed from the area. He was with us at the museum and his presence ad story made the trip all the more meaningful. Currently, they are rebuilding in district 6 so his family has an application in to return to the area.  At the same time, he said for many the memories are too painful to ever think of returning there. 

 That night, we were introduced to a man named Themba. He is a part of an organization that runs workshops that essentially revolve around music therapy for those who have had traumatic events especially relating to apartheid. He performed a few songs for us that were really touching and full of African history. He also brought in drums and instruments for each of us and taught us some beats. I know some of you (Dan) think I can’t keep a beat for the life of me, but Themba says: “If your heart beats, you’ve got the rhythm.” It was such a special night and it really reinforced how healing and connecting music can be. 

 On Wednesday, we went to a braai place in Gugelethu Township called Mzoli’s. It was also the 4^th of July, so this was perfect! Apparently, this place is a huge hot spot for people in the township on the weekends, and many people go here to eat and listen to music.  After that we headed to Zolani, where an amazing youth dance group performed. They told the story of recent South African history through song and dance and was one of the coolest performances I have ever seen.  After that, a few girls and I went to the waterfront on a sunset cruise. To give you an idea of the weather here, for the cruise I wore 5 layers on top, jeans and leggings, and three pairs of socks. On the cruise they gave out blankets and it was still cold!! But, we had so much fun, and saw a beautiful sunset, and a whale! Which Kelly claims is the same whale she saw while Para gliding, maybe he will follow her home to North Carolina, too.  Right from there some of us headed out for Indian food….I’ve actually never had it before and it was so good! Especially garlic and cheese naan, seriously yum. Then, we went home and enjoyed a bonfire the staff was nice enough to set up and some s’mores or SAMORES (Emily) and sparklers since it was the 4^th of July! A very different 4^th of July, but amazing!

On Thursday, we had our farewell dinner at a Mexican restaurant. The sadness beginsL The next day was Sophie’s last day at Luthando and my next to last. I am sure going to miss those little buggers. As crazy and chaotic as that place is, it and the kids will always have a place in my heart. The last day we did face paint and bubbles, sang songs, and played a few games. I will see them again on Monday, so I am grateful to have one more day. 

Late Friday, Sophie’s parents came in since they are traveling on a safari when the program ends. They took a few of us out for a delicious Thai dinner at the waterfront. Thanks, Caryn and Steve! In case anyone’s keeping track that’s Indian, Mexican, and Thai dinners all in a row.  Later Friday night, we ended up at the weirdest rave –like club for about 5 minutes, then home to sleep. 

 On Saturday, we went to a fantastic place called Old Biscuit Mill. It is a farmer’s market in town with delicious food and so many cute shops. It’s almost a Parisian like setting, with music playing and adorable décor. I didn’t eat very much- only a chocolate crepe, macaroons, a pizza, foccacia bread, a smoothie, and a million samples of dips and hummus. SO GOOD. The rest of the day Saturday was very sad. Little by little, most of my new friends left me to travel home. (I booked a few extra days, so I am here till tomorrow) At the same time, a new group of people came in. So now the house is very full of new people and it is just not the same! Missing my buddies, but I am lucky enough to room with Sharon my 2 extra nights here. We are super besties, so this is awesome. 

That night, with heavy hearts from all the leaving going on, a few of us headed out to a performance at City Hall in Cape Town. The building is so beautiful. There were two South African groups playing- Madala Kunene and Caiphus Semenya. They were both fantastic and so much fun. The crowd was so into everything. Both groups were great, but I really enjoyed the second group with three female backup singers and dancers, and really upbeat music. At a few points, some type of dance broke out that everyone knew. Sharon and I tried to participate but mostly tripped on each other. There was also a dance circle. Luckily I was just an observer of this, and it was really fun to watch. It was a really great way to end a sad day. 

This morning, I had a trip scheduled to Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years) but it was cancelled due to rough seas. The weather is awful today. We are mostly lounging around, and tonight I will finish packing my things.  I leave at 3:50 to catch my flight at the airport tomorrow. It’s been a good day for reflection as well and I’m leaving Cape Town feeling so fulfilled and fortunate for the experiences, knowledge, and new friends I have gained on this trip. Cape Town is a beautiful place with a sad and troubled history, and many difficult problems to face ahead, yet there are so many working hard to make things better here. I couldn’t be happier that I made the decision to come and I can only hope I will be lucky enough to return someday. I could say more but it’s difficult to put these feelings into words. For all the people who reminded me to take lots of pictures—no worries, I think I have about 1000+. (I will put them on facebook and post a link on here) Can’t wait to come home to warm weather, my hubs, my kitties, and family and friends. Love you all and thank you for keeping up with my journey.

Hamba Kakuhle.