"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart". (Nelson Mandela).
Molweni or welcome in xhosa. (Xhosa is pronounced with a tongue click and then kosa). This is the native language of the people of Malugeni. Many of whom we met today. We were so pleased to be greeted in the mid afternoon by some of the community members that came to our guest house. We sat in a half circle and were led by Nkulie who translated the event. We were greeted by members of the Dept of Ed, and Social Services, as well as high tribal leaders of the community. All of which expressed thanks for our commitment to the community and hope for continued success with Global Volunteers. They expressed how important working together has been, is and will be great benefit to the community. From their talks, they are just as interested in learning from us and we are from them. As Bonke so eloquently stated earlier in the day, "It is always good to check your angles on all things". What he meant by this was the importance of a different perspective. Yesterday the minister of the town said " knowledge is power" and power is so important for this community to help "fight the enemy which is poverty" , as passionately stated by the leader of the DOE. We were asked to give an introduction and then we sang " You are my sunshine" as best as we could on the fly. The ceremonies ended with traditional dance from the women and kids. Their faces painted and with woven skirts on they danced in step to the drum. With arms stretched out, head tilted back looking up at the sky with so much pride, confidence, joy and strength. They were so open to the world and what awaits them. Full of tireless energy and an abundance of spirit. It was an amazing day for all of us.
- Tiffany Strietelmeier
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