All good things come to an end...

Friday July 29, 2010- Created by Richard

We started the day our with yet another amazing breakfast prepared by the excellent and hardworking staff. We received our marketing orders from our versatile, flexible, and dynamic group leader Tanya. The weather was a little chilly and threatening rain but this did not dampen our spirits. Excitement and anticipation filled the room as the volunteers realized that our goal was within our grasp. All that was left to do was the final two days of projects and preparation for the farewell celebration.

Richard and Ismay headed to MDumbi. Cam and Drew started out to finish the tree planting project. Michelle, Deborah, Kate, Valerie, and Anya headed to MBange. Holly was sent to the preschool. Susan was still a little under the weather. We all met back at the guest house at 1 pm. We started on our journey to Mthatha to visit the Nelson Mandela Museum. Our reliable driver was Zile. After arrival to the museum we were given a guided tour. During the tour we were refamiliarized with the greatness, courage, and stature of the man who was instrumental in leading South Africa through Apartheid and on to the world stage. It was evident that his sacrifice and selflessness as an example to millions around the world.

After the museum in Mthatha we visited Qunu, the village where Mr. Mandela grew up. The museum at Qunu was also a guided tour but some in the group chose to explore on their own. Richard, Ismay, Andrew, Cam, Tanya, and Kate went with the tour guide to the sliding rock where a young Nelson Mandela playfully slid down a rock with his friends to kill time and escape the boredom while tending his family’s cattle. The guide graciously demonstrated. A fearless Andrew soon followed. Not to be outdone group leader Tanya gave it a try. Once was just not enough for Andrew, Eh! Once again, Andrew slid down the rock. Following in his brother’s footsteps, Cam gave it a try. Finally, I gave it a try. I must admit it was exhilarating. One might even say, it was electric. We left the rock and turned the rest of the museum. Ismay and Katie made excellent cheerleader. After Qunu, we headed back, stopping at a tradition crafts place and the grocery in Mthata.

On our way home after a fun filled day, we practiced South African’s National Anthem and the group sand. Some had forgotten the words. Although it was crude and coarse sounding, we have a better idea of how to pronounce most the lyrics. We arrived back home looking forward to a trip to the tradition healer, but unfortunately she was unavailable.

Taking it in stride, the volunteers began helping the local coordinator, Olga, prepare gift bags for the children of the community. Soon it was time for a later dinner. Again, Chops and his staff fed us well.

Thought: “A person is a person through other people” –Mandela.