The lectionary (the book that lists which Bible readings should be read at services) they use here is different to the 1 we use.
When you're on Altar Prep you have to mark the relevant pages for the appointed readings. So when I was on Altar Prep at the end of Feb,I had to use their lectionary for the first time. I was rather proud of myself because I managed this without any help!
First I found the right date+then saw that instead of listing the readings like usual it said 'CC 7' + 'Common 7' +I didn't have a clue what this meant! Anyway I soon realised CC stood for 'Common Collect' +so found the 7th common collect (i.e. the prayer for the day) which is in a different book. After some more thought I realised Common 7 referred to 'Common Readings' no.7 which are in the beginning of the lectionay. After finding this, there were 3 different readings for no.7 depending if it was year a,b or c. After working out it's year c in the churches calendar I was able to find all the correct readings!
Later that evening though Kholisili burst into the common room where several of us were watching TV+announced to me 'where did you find these readings?' It was a bit embarrassing as everyone could hear him+he kept going on that I'd done it wrong. I stood to my guns though+explained how I'd found those readings. He was literally gobsmacked to find that I,who have never used a S.A. lectionary before,had done it correctly, whereas he,a S.A., didn't have a clue!! He then apologised a lot+tried to kiss me to say sorry but as you can imagine I pushed him away! After this all were laughing at him rather than me!
Off my trolley!
The super market we go to most is called Pick 'n' Pay +I dont know why but I love it! The cheap brand it sells is even called 'the one without a name' which I thought was a V. appropriate, +funny,term! The shopping trolley's Pick 'n' Pay has are the same as other supermarkets here+they are plastic rather than metal. There's 2 kinds,with 1being like ours but bigger+the other looking like 2baskets on top of each other! The latter are my faves+I've included a pic here of 1!
Crime
S.A. is known to have a high crime rate+we've experienced this in some regards while being here just 3months.
We've been careful to follow advice+so not go out on our own in the dark,only going into town+safe areas,not having expensive things visible,always locking our flat door even when we are in,locking our bedroom doors at night too+when we're out, keeping quiet about having our lap tops with us+hiding them when their not in use,+the like. We're also lucky that some of our windows have guards on,like many people's window in S.A.,so that people are unable to break the window+then get into your place. As a result, thankfully we've been ok so far.
However, there's been some crime experienced at college here. 1student came back to his bungalow to find a man inside+he was lucky that this man just sat+waited for the police rather than tried to hurt him to escape,another student had things taken from his room,another had his car broken into,+another had some of her clothes from the washing line stolen! Sadly many flash discs (i.e. memory sticks) also go missing from COTT's computer room+it's likely that its students who have taken these.
Clearly stricter systems need to be in place to combat crime,+I feel there should also be the mindset encouraged that crime is unacceptable. Nonetheless,it is probably inevitable to some extent as some people here have so little that I suspect they use crime as a means to survive.
We've been careful to follow advice+so not go out on our own in the dark,only going into town+safe areas,not having expensive things visible,always locking our flat door even when we are in,locking our bedroom doors at night too+when we're out, keeping quiet about having our lap tops with us+hiding them when their not in use,+the like. We're also lucky that some of our windows have guards on,like many people's window in S.A.,so that people are unable to break the window+then get into your place. As a result, thankfully we've been ok so far.
However, there's been some crime experienced at college here. 1student came back to his bungalow to find a man inside+he was lucky that this man just sat+waited for the police rather than tried to hurt him to escape,another student had things taken from his room,another had his car broken into,+another had some of her clothes from the washing line stolen! Sadly many flash discs (i.e. memory sticks) also go missing from COTT's computer room+it's likely that its students who have taken these.
Clearly stricter systems need to be in place to combat crime,+I feel there should also be the mindset encouraged that crime is unacceptable. Nonetheless,it is probably inevitable to some extent as some people here have so little that I suspect they use crime as a means to survive.
Zzzzzzzzzzz
Many students here sleep+work at different times to do we do in the U.K with many having 2long naps rather than 1 period of sleep,+working in the night rather than the day.
While these routines vary of course from person to person,most students here seem to either nap in the afternoon,work til 12-3ish at night+then sleep, or nap in the afternoon+again in the early evening+then wake at3-5ish in the morning.
E.G. some wake for chapel at 6:45am,nap for a few hours in the afternoon,then work til about 2am,before sleeping again til chapel. And others wake about 3am to work before chapel,sleep for a few hours in the afternoon,work in the evening,+sleep again for another few hours before waking about 3ish.
Personally I couldn't do this as I'd feel too tired+much prefer 1long period of sleep -in fact,the longer the better!
While these routines vary of course from person to person,most students here seem to either nap in the afternoon,work til 12-3ish at night+then sleep, or nap in the afternoon+again in the early evening+then wake at3-5ish in the morning.
E.G. some wake for chapel at 6:45am,nap for a few hours in the afternoon,then work til about 2am,before sleeping again til chapel. And others wake about 3am to work before chapel,sleep for a few hours in the afternoon,work in the evening,+sleep again for another few hours before waking about 3ish.
Personally I couldn't do this as I'd feel too tired+much prefer 1long period of sleep -in fact,the longer the better!
Political correctness
I feel it's necessary after my recent posts to note that here it's entirely acceptable to mention that people are black,coloured or white.
I have to say I agree with this. In the U.K. we happily mention that someone is male or female,but are scared to mention that someone is white or black for fear of being deemed a racist. While,of course,it is entirely wrong to be racist or refer to one's skin colour in a derogatory way, it is not derogatory to simply acknowledge a fact -i.e. that I am white.
Interestingly,in the U.K. we don't feel it's necessary to ban all talk of facts about people.E.G. it's fine to refer to one's height, gender,hair colour,place of birth,musical preferences, sporting interests,etc etc; however its not fine to refer to one's ethnicity,sexual orientation,weight if over-weight,etc. I wonder who invented these rules which I find somewhat odd, as, for e.g.,in the U.K. we dont think its ok to mock someone's disability, but it's more than acceptable to mock someone's height (I dont want to get into the issue of whether height could be seen as some kind of disability or not -though it is useful to note that everyday activities are made harder for those of us under 5foot).
However,since there are some who would (+even some who do anyway) refer to such facts about people in a derogatory way, whether on purpose or accidentally,it does seem necessary to ban all talk of such things at all. I wounder if 1dy though in England we'll be able to acknowledge facts about people without being seen as oppressive.
I have to say I agree with this. In the U.K. we happily mention that someone is male or female,but are scared to mention that someone is white or black for fear of being deemed a racist. While,of course,it is entirely wrong to be racist or refer to one's skin colour in a derogatory way, it is not derogatory to simply acknowledge a fact -i.e. that I am white.
Interestingly,in the U.K. we don't feel it's necessary to ban all talk of facts about people.E.G. it's fine to refer to one's height, gender,hair colour,place of birth,musical preferences, sporting interests,etc etc; however its not fine to refer to one's ethnicity,sexual orientation,weight if over-weight,etc. I wonder who invented these rules which I find somewhat odd, as, for e.g.,in the U.K. we dont think its ok to mock someone's disability, but it's more than acceptable to mock someone's height (I dont want to get into the issue of whether height could be seen as some kind of disability or not -though it is useful to note that everyday activities are made harder for those of us under 5foot).
However,since there are some who would (+even some who do anyway) refer to such facts about people in a derogatory way, whether on purpose or accidentally,it does seem necessary to ban all talk of such things at all. I wounder if 1dy though in England we'll be able to acknowledge facts about people without being seen as oppressive.
Cultural differences
Following on from my last post, it is evident that S.A. is V. ethnically+culturally diverse. Hence S.A. having 11 official languages.
Many black S.An's live in rural areas+locations,are in clans,+their mother tongue is indigenous languages such as Zulu,Xhosa,or Sotho. However,they are becoming increasingly Westernised.
The white S.An's are V. European or Western,tend to live in urban areas,+their mother tongue is Afrikaans or English.
The coloured S.An's are V. similar to the whites,+their first language is Afrikaans.
They all hold various things in common though,such as many being Christian,many also speaking English,+many enjoying sport+braai's.
Many black S.An's live in rural areas+locations,are in clans,+their mother tongue is indigenous languages such as Zulu,Xhosa,or Sotho. However,they are becoming increasingly Westernised.
The white S.An's are V. European or Western,tend to live in urban areas,+their mother tongue is Afrikaans or English.
The coloured S.An's are V. similar to the whites,+their first language is Afrikaans.
They all hold various things in common though,such as many being Christian,many also speaking English,+many enjoying sport+braai's.
Clans
'How many clans are their in England?' I was asked soon after getting here. I thought for a moment+then said just 1-i.e. the majority of us are British.
There's several ways I could have answered this, such as referring to gangs,subcultures,the class system,or the distinction between England,Wales,Scotland+Ireland,etc. In the end I said 1 as I knew the person asking the question had a different concept of 'clan' in mind which does not actually exist in the U.K.In S.A. there are many 'clans'. Before coming here,what they mean by 'clan', I thought was known as 'tribes' +I'm still not sure of the exact difference between clans+tribes+even if a distinction exists at all,but here they use the word 'clans'. The majority of black S.An's know which clan they are in+can tell which clans others are in simply by their surname. Some clans have kings+/or a leader+all those within the clan are considered to be in the same family.E.G.I met a teenage boy who told me Nelson Mandela is his grandfather,I later found out this wasn't true biologically speaking but was true in the sense that all men of that age within his clan are considered to be,+therefore also called,grandparents.Similarly,all adults of their parents age are regarded as uncles+aunts.
Cell Phones
At COTT peoples cell phones (mobile phones to us) are always ringing. I'm not exaggerating,I can even tell whose phone it is by the ring-tone,whereas in England I don't even know what Jon's ring-tone is let alone any of my friends! Here their phones go constantly,even during meals,classes+chapel! They are meant to be on silent in chapel though+most of the time are. But in all other occasions the phones not only ring,but are also answered too!! This is as true for staff as it is for students. And we've been in several meetings where staff have answered their phone with no apology,rather they just answer it as if that's the norm which it is here. SMS (text messages to us) are also sent+received regularly. Indeed in many conversations you will hear people saying 'SMS me' or 'I'll SMS so+so',etc.
In contrast I've had my phone off the majority of my time here+only turn it on for 10mins every few days to see if I have any messages -which I don't as everyone knows I'm here. At home I regularly check my phone throughout the day which is pointless really as most days I wont get a single call or text message. It has therefore been liberating not to be frequently thinking about my phone+checking for messages,+so when I get home I'll continue leaving it,though of course I'll leave it on, what I mean is I'll leave it on+if I don't here it I wont go out of my way to check it+I wont worry about keeping it with me at all times like when I'm in Church,etc.
In contrast I've had my phone off the majority of my time here+only turn it on for 10mins every few days to see if I have any messages -which I don't as everyone knows I'm here. At home I regularly check my phone throughout the day which is pointless really as most days I wont get a single call or text message. It has therefore been liberating not to be frequently thinking about my phone+checking for messages,+so when I get home I'll continue leaving it,though of course I'll leave it on, what I mean is I'll leave it on+if I don't here it I wont go out of my way to check it+I wont worry about keeping it with me at all times like when I'm in Church,etc.
Monastery
Last week we went to the local Anglican Benedictine monastery (called Mariya uMama weThemba Monastery) for Vespers. It was a quiet service involving chants+Bible readings. It was a lovey service+V. peaceful. Indeed,as soon as you get out of the car there is an atmosphere of peacefulness which is V. refreshing. The fact the monastery is in the hills+therefore is isolated from much civilisation+has wonderful views also added to the visit.
Sites your likley to see
Here's a few pics of somethings you see almost daily around S.A.
A braai
The Aloe plant
A marimba
A lady carrying something on her head
An assortment of people (black,coloured+white) from the various cultures present in S.A.
The sky as a beautiful bright blue which pure white clouds
A braai
The Aloe plant
A marimba
A lady carrying something on her head
The cycad tree
Donkeys pulling a cart carrying people or things
1 tree that appears to be several trees coming from 1 stump
1 tree that appears to be several trees coming from 1 stump
'Holy Mother in Christ'
The title of this post is just 1 of many I've been called regularly, with others including 'good people', 'my sister', or 'my friend' with 'in Christ' often added too. The men, of course, are often called father+brother.
This shows to me 2things. First, S.African Christians truly believe +accept all (Anglicans at least) Christians to be part of the same family under God. And also,that God is the focus of their life+all they do,since in liturgical,academic or social settings the first thought on their minds and therefore words they say are 'hello my sister', 'I greet you in the name of Christ', or something else similar.
Being far from home,this family language is very comforting as it speaks to me of belonging,acceptance+love, rather than viewing me as different or an outsider.
This shows to me 2things. First, S.African Christians truly believe +accept all (Anglicans at least) Christians to be part of the same family under God. And also,that God is the focus of their life+all they do,since in liturgical,academic or social settings the first thought on their minds and therefore words they say are 'hello my sister', 'I greet you in the name of Christ', or something else similar.
Being far from home,this family language is very comforting as it speaks to me of belonging,acceptance+love, rather than viewing me as different or an outsider.
When ants attack!
Recently we had an unfortunate event involving an invasion of ants!!-ok I may be exaggerating,but only slightly!
We returned back to our flatlet 1day to find a dead insect in Doms room with 100's of ants crawling all over+around it! I was slightly freaked out but Dom calmly picked up the dead insect with some paper+threw it out the window.After this we didn't know how to get rid of the ants other than stamping on them,so we did+we thought this was the end of it -but no such luck! Later the next day we left the flat+returned again to find the same thing in Doms room in the same place! We dealt with it in the same way+again hoped that was that. BUT...that evening a student knocked on our door+I went to answer.As its hot I wasn't wearing any shoes or socks (I think you can see where this is going!) +as I closed the door I felt I'd stepped on something. When I looked down I'd stepped with bear feet on a dead bug+loads of ants!!! ARGGGGHHHHHH It was horrible,but worse yet,Dom was out!! So after freaking out I then had to deal with the bug+ants myself! And you will be pleased to hear that after this we informed a member of staff who put ant poison down in our flat+thankfully that has been the end of it.
We returned back to our flatlet 1day to find a dead insect in Doms room with 100's of ants crawling all over+around it! I was slightly freaked out but Dom calmly picked up the dead insect with some paper+threw it out the window.After this we didn't know how to get rid of the ants other than stamping on them,so we did+we thought this was the end of it -but no such luck! Later the next day we left the flat+returned again to find the same thing in Doms room in the same place! We dealt with it in the same way+again hoped that was that. BUT...that evening a student knocked on our door+I went to answer.As its hot I wasn't wearing any shoes or socks (I think you can see where this is going!) +as I closed the door I felt I'd stepped on something. When I looked down I'd stepped with bear feet on a dead bug+loads of ants!!! ARGGGGHHHHHH It was horrible,but worse yet,Dom was out!! So after freaking out I then had to deal with the bug+ants myself! And you will be pleased to hear that after this we informed a member of staff who put ant poison down in our flat+thankfully that has been the end of it.
Palm Sunday
On Saturday Jon,myself+Dom joined many COTT students making Palm Crosses for the following days service. This is the traditional activity in S.A. for the day before Palm Sunday+many were V. surprised to here we don't do this in the U.K.
We used actual palm branches which were cut up+then folded into the crosses. We also had to keep the branches+crosses in water so they didn't dry out. To make them you use 2pieces of palms+there are many folds that have to be done in the right order to make the crosses as well as pulling them through certain holes/loops. Jon got the hang of it V. quickly,but it took me a few attempts to get it right on my own,though once I did I was rather proud of my crosses! It was also wonderful to have actual fresh green palm branches for the crosses rather than the ready-made,dried-up brown 1s we have at home! And it brought alive the story of Christs entry into Jerusalem.
The following day was the Palm Sunday service+as we do in the U.K. we started outside walking a short distance while singing a hymn+holding the palm crosses. I really enjoyed the service +realised how much I'm going to miss this when I get home. The way they combine the traditional Eucharistic prayer,incense, marimbas+traditional African singing+dancing is truly inspiring. I particularly like that I am in the noisy corner of the chapel as some students near me bring their own instruments, with Khosi bringing a bell he chimes,Albert a cushion he bangs+Lyanda a drum he hits.I would love to have an instrument to join in myself,but as it is I just sing V. loudly+clap +dance+the like!
Below pics:Me+Titus with palm branches!A few action shots during the making of the crosses. +the start of the service.
We used actual palm branches which were cut up+then folded into the crosses. We also had to keep the branches+crosses in water so they didn't dry out. To make them you use 2pieces of palms+there are many folds that have to be done in the right order to make the crosses as well as pulling them through certain holes/loops. Jon got the hang of it V. quickly,but it took me a few attempts to get it right on my own,though once I did I was rather proud of my crosses! It was also wonderful to have actual fresh green palm branches for the crosses rather than the ready-made,dried-up brown 1s we have at home! And it brought alive the story of Christs entry into Jerusalem.
The following day was the Palm Sunday service+as we do in the U.K. we started outside walking a short distance while singing a hymn+holding the palm crosses. I really enjoyed the service +realised how much I'm going to miss this when I get home. The way they combine the traditional Eucharistic prayer,incense, marimbas+traditional African singing+dancing is truly inspiring. I particularly like that I am in the noisy corner of the chapel as some students near me bring their own instruments, with Khosi bringing a bell he chimes,Albert a cushion he bangs+Lyanda a drum he hits.I would love to have an instrument to join in myself,but as it is I just sing V. loudly+clap +dance+the like!
Below pics:Me+Titus with palm branches!A few action shots during the making of the crosses. +the start of the service.
Alternative Worship
On Tuesday mornings Form.Groups take it in turns to lead Alternative Worship which can be anything you want it to be much like ours (or even the same as!) on Wednesday evenings at Cuddesdon.
Alternative Worship doesnt start until well into the first term when all are settled+so we've only been to 2 as we missed 1 while at Q'town. I'm sorry not to have experienced more of these. Personally I think it's a wonderful idea for several reasons: it enables some people to worship in a style they are more comfortable with which isn't currently offered at COTT, it makes people work in a group, it shows others new/different ways of worshiping, +so on.
The first 1 we attended was led by 2 students Vernon+Monde. Though some felt it was V. different to usual morning prayer,I felt it was quite similar. There were set prayers+Bible readings, though in addition there were more songs which we sang with even more energy+life than usual!
The second 1 was led by my Form.Group +though we'd hoped to do it on listening we mixed up too many ideas+so the point in the end wasn't that clear! Basically there was a song,then a short drama where we all came in carrying V. heavy bags+ no-one would help one another as there own bag was too heavy. Finally Fungayi came back in with no bag+encouraged others to open their bags too. There was then a talk from Fungayi about opening up our bags,i.e. our thoughts,concerns, worries,etc. This lead into prayer where all prayed at once in their own language,then a time of silence +then another song.
Alternative Worship doesnt start until well into the first term when all are settled+so we've only been to 2 as we missed 1 while at Q'town. I'm sorry not to have experienced more of these. Personally I think it's a wonderful idea for several reasons: it enables some people to worship in a style they are more comfortable with which isn't currently offered at COTT, it makes people work in a group, it shows others new/different ways of worshiping, +so on.
The first 1 we attended was led by 2 students Vernon+Monde. Though some felt it was V. different to usual morning prayer,I felt it was quite similar. There were set prayers+Bible readings, though in addition there were more songs which we sang with even more energy+life than usual!
The second 1 was led by my Form.Group +though we'd hoped to do it on listening we mixed up too many ideas+so the point in the end wasn't that clear! Basically there was a song,then a short drama where we all came in carrying V. heavy bags+ no-one would help one another as there own bag was too heavy. Finally Fungayi came back in with no bag+encouraged others to open their bags too. There was then a talk from Fungayi about opening up our bags,i.e. our thoughts,concerns, worries,etc. This lead into prayer where all prayed at once in their own language,then a time of silence +then another song.
Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord we have running again!! As you can imagine I for one was rejoicing loudly+I wasn't the only one!!
In the end we were without running water for about 3dys+it's added to my learning experience about the preciousness of water.
The day we arrived here we heard the Eastern Cape had received V. little rain+so there was a hosepipe ban. As a result, when it finally rained there was certainly relief. However it hasnt actually rained a great deal since we've been here+when it has its rarely been heavy or lasted long.
Then when we visited Q'town we were told they were also suffering from the lack of rain+so the whole towns water was cut off from 9pm-4am each night! We also went to a prayer meeting there which has been meeting weekly for several months now to pray for rain. Thankfully the following day it rained heavily,though again,not for that long.
I'd never thought of rain before as a blessing until coming to this environment+finding that water isn't always readily available when you want it simply because it hasnt rained that much. I tell you I will certainly be more grateful for water in the future.
In the end we were without running water for about 3dys+it's added to my learning experience about the preciousness of water.
The day we arrived here we heard the Eastern Cape had received V. little rain+so there was a hosepipe ban. As a result, when it finally rained there was certainly relief. However it hasnt actually rained a great deal since we've been here+when it has its rarely been heavy or lasted long.
Then when we visited Q'town we were told they were also suffering from the lack of rain+so the whole towns water was cut off from 9pm-4am each night! We also went to a prayer meeting there which has been meeting weekly for several months now to pray for rain. Thankfully the following day it rained heavily,though again,not for that long.
I'd never thought of rain before as a blessing until coming to this environment+finding that water isn't always readily available when you want it simply because it hasnt rained that much. I tell you I will certainly be more grateful for water in the future.
The vicar of Dibley in S.A. episode 1
Recently Dom+I had a moment much like my role model the vicar of Dibley!
While in Q'town we spent a morning at a meeting during which we were given 2+a 1/2 cakes+then at the end KFC chicken+ bread rolls! As soon as we finished we left the Church to go back next door to Reg's (the Priest we were staying with)+found he had cooked steak+sausage on a braai+had more bread rolls for us too!! We didnt want to be rude so didnt mentioned we'd ate+so ate dinner again!! Gosh we were so full!!
While in Q'town we spent a morning at a meeting during which we were given 2+a 1/2 cakes+then at the end KFC chicken+ bread rolls! As soon as we finished we left the Church to go back next door to Reg's (the Priest we were staying with)+found he had cooked steak+sausage on a braai+had more bread rolls for us too!! We didnt want to be rude so didnt mentioned we'd ate+so ate dinner again!! Gosh we were so full!!
water update
Still no water here but COTT have bought a big container which arrived yesterday that the fire brigade filled up with water for us. Again this isn't safe to drink, +as the other smaller barrel of rain water COTT have wont last long, Dom,Jon+I have stopped using it to wash with+the like as we are sure some people are using it to drink-even though its not really safe to. As we don't want to use up people's drinking water just to wash we're using the water which arrived yesterday to wash with even though its a kind of yellowy-greeny-brown colour! We're sure both the containers/barrels of water will run out soonish so we're limiting ourselves to make it last longer+so not using much to wash with+not flushing the loo+the like! Its not great but needs must! As you can imagine, a sink with about 2inches of cold yellowy-greeny-brown water isn't the best thing to wash with,but it's certainly better than nothing!
Water crisis!
As I type we've been without water for 2 dys! We woke Thursday to find there's a problem with a pump in the dam at Grahamstown+the whole town is without water. Furthermore we've been told it'll take 3-7 days to fix as they need a part to arrive from German which means we may have water sometime Sunday if we're lucky but we may not until next Thursday!!
Dom,Jon+I are continuing to buy bottled water from Pick 'n' Pay (the local supermarket) as we've been doing since we found out the tap water isn't safe to drink. And there's a few water barrels at COTT where you can get rain water but again this isn't 100% safe to drink+also they were all empty apart from 1 by the time we were told about them anyway! We have filled up some bottles from this though+are using them to attempt to wash+ 'flush' the toilet,etc. This water wont last forever though so we're using it sparingly.
Today it was 28-32oC's so everyone is sweating as there's no fans or air-conditioning at COTT (apart from 1 air-con unit in the computer room which I'm V. thankful for!). I feel just like I do at Download (a rock+metal music festival I go to every year where you camp for up-to 6dys) in the way that I don't feel clean, especially my hair+you cant even wash your hands properly after using the toilet! Worse still,people shake your hand or hug you during the peace in the Eucharist service everyday!
I have never appreciated water so much as I do now.
Dom,Jon+I are continuing to buy bottled water from Pick 'n' Pay (the local supermarket) as we've been doing since we found out the tap water isn't safe to drink. And there's a few water barrels at COTT where you can get rain water but again this isn't 100% safe to drink+also they were all empty apart from 1 by the time we were told about them anyway! We have filled up some bottles from this though+are using them to attempt to wash+ 'flush' the toilet,etc. This water wont last forever though so we're using it sparingly.
Today it was 28-32oC's so everyone is sweating as there's no fans or air-conditioning at COTT (apart from 1 air-con unit in the computer room which I'm V. thankful for!). I feel just like I do at Download (a rock+metal music festival I go to every year where you camp for up-to 6dys) in the way that I don't feel clean, especially my hair+you cant even wash your hands properly after using the toilet! Worse still,people shake your hand or hug you during the peace in the Eucharist service everyday!
I have never appreciated water so much as I do now.
Community Building
We had another Community Building session. This was for a couple of hours rather than a day+as I'm on that committee I had to help plan+lead it again. I think it went well+fun was had which is the main thing!
I had to supervise the building a tower out of paper+sellotape which was more tricky than I'd thought as a riot broke out between a few groups -one of which Dom was in! Following this there was a chance to release (or build up more!) tension in a complicated game which involved blowing golf balls with a small straw from one width of a tennis court to another! It was hilarious to watch as you can see from the photo of Grant (a student) laughing at Jon's attempt!
I had to supervise the building a tower out of paper+sellotape which was more tricky than I'd thought as a riot broke out between a few groups -one of which Dom was in! Following this there was a chance to release (or build up more!) tension in a complicated game which involved blowing golf balls with a small straw from one width of a tennis court to another! It was hilarious to watch as you can see from the photo of Grant (a student) laughing at Jon's attempt!
Holiday
Monday was a public holiday in honour of human rights. Excellent stuff I thought! Though others disagreed!
Interestingly the holiday was started in response to police killing 69+wounding another 180 black people who took part in a campaign in 1960 refusing to carry their Pass Books which they were legally meant to carry to 'prove' they were allowed to enter a 'white area'. Following this the S.A. Constitution established the S.A. Human Rights Commission to promote,protect,develop +monitor human rights.
I was surprised then that those moaning about this human rights were black S.A's! They thought it was too Western+based on individual rights.They were V. suspicious of it,+kept asking/saying 'whose rights over who?' They were also against the idea of being innocent until proven guilty.
That aside,we had a day off college,so Jon+I explored a bit more of Grahamstown.We went to their Botanical Gardens+from there walked up a hill to the Settlers Monument.There was a wonderful view of the town from there+we enjoyed the walk. Later my Formation Group threw me a goodbye braai. It was really good of them+a nice relaxing afternoon. We ate a lot,including pap of course,+ended with the group telling me how much they've enjoyed me being here which was lovely.+they also thanked Jon for making the sacrifice of being without me for a while+reassured him it was not for me,but was for the work of God. As you can tell they were all V. sweet+I also thanked them for welcoming+including me so well,+also for the fun we've had+reassured them I'd never forget the time we went to the Big Pineapple!!
Interestingly the holiday was started in response to police killing 69+wounding another 180 black people who took part in a campaign in 1960 refusing to carry their Pass Books which they were legally meant to carry to 'prove' they were allowed to enter a 'white area'. Following this the S.A. Constitution established the S.A. Human Rights Commission to promote,protect,develop +monitor human rights.
I was surprised then that those moaning about this human rights were black S.A's! They thought it was too Western+based on individual rights.They were V. suspicious of it,+kept asking/saying 'whose rights over who?' They were also against the idea of being innocent until proven guilty.
That aside,we had a day off college,so Jon+I explored a bit more of Grahamstown.We went to their Botanical Gardens+from there walked up a hill to the Settlers Monument.There was a wonderful view of the town from there+we enjoyed the walk. Later my Formation Group threw me a goodbye braai. It was really good of them+a nice relaxing afternoon. We ate a lot,including pap of course,+ended with the group telling me how much they've enjoyed me being here which was lovely.+they also thanked Jon for making the sacrifice of being without me for a while+reassured him it was not for me,but was for the work of God. As you can tell they were all V. sweet+I also thanked them for welcoming+including me so well,+also for the fun we've had+reassured them I'd never forget the time we went to the Big Pineapple!!
Sports Day
Last weekend we had another Sports Day. The morning was our students playing football against another local team who are V. good which is unsurprising as they practice everyday! Also unsurprisingly our team lost since they only play together about once a month! Those who didn't play watched+offered support. Though I was assured last Sports Day that anyone could play, in reality sexism was evident as only men played.
Afterwards was a netball match between COTT students+ spouses. Again sexism was rife as mainly women played. I say mainly as Jon also played on our team+at half-time was substituted for Fungayi -who helped us win the match! If I'm honest, I quite enjoyed playing +wasnt too bad this time either!
That afternoon we had some games of volleyball. This was fun but I was quite rubbish so even when the ball went to me 1 time, knowing I'd mess it up,Kholiseilie ran for it too,running right into me+then carried on running taking me with him!! It was V. funny!
Finally we had a much needed braai!
Afterwards was a netball match between COTT students+ spouses. Again sexism was rife as mainly women played. I say mainly as Jon also played on our team+at half-time was substituted for Fungayi -who helped us win the match! If I'm honest, I quite enjoyed playing +wasnt too bad this time either!
That afternoon we had some games of volleyball. This was fun but I was quite rubbish so even when the ball went to me 1 time, knowing I'd mess it up,Kholiseilie ran for it too,running right into me+then carried on running taking me with him!! It was V. funny!
Finally we had a much needed braai!
Friday night film
A few Friday evenings now we've been watching a film in the Common Room with some of the guys here. Someone hires out a DVD,another sets up the laptop+screen +after a slight rearranging of furniture,we're ready to go!
The main campus where we're staying is the mens residence -yes I'm the only female staying in the mens building+yes people regularly forget that+walk around in their boxers!! Anyway back to the point! The film is always an action one that we've never heard of! They are usual ok or better+its a nice way to spend an evening relaxing with other students here.
The main campus where we're staying is the mens residence -yes I'm the only female staying in the mens building+yes people regularly forget that+walk around in their boxers!! Anyway back to the point! The film is always an action one that we've never heard of! They are usual ok or better+its a nice way to spend an evening relaxing with other students here.
Jon's arrival
Just to reassure you all,Jon arrived safely last Thursday afternoon (yay!) +following much rest that day+some of the next,he was ready to join in with the life of the community here by Friday afternoon/evening.
Bee sting update
For those concerned about the bee sting I suffered several weeks ago, I'd like to say it's healed fine, BUT it hasn't! It's left a scar!! A scar about the same size as the TB jab scar+also an indent in my skin instead of being flat. I am not impressed, but, I guess, at least I've a permanent reminder of my time here!
Who am I?
Before you leave your home to go half-way around the world for a significant length of time,many people tell you that during your time you'll discover things about yourself. With this in mind, I've recently made an important realisation -that, for better or for worse, I'm exactly who I thought I was!
Celebrity status
I'm feeling a bit like a minor celebrity here in S.A.+am hoping to receive the same treatment when I return to the U.K.!!
Many people here get rather excited to hear we're from England because it's a long way away+is considered the home of Anglican Christianity. It's not rare for people to thank us for coming out here to visit them when we're also trying to thank them for letting us visit! Several people have even asked for photo's of us with them so they can show their friends+family who have never seen before an English person,or in some cases a white person.
And on return from our week in Q'town,we were met with great smiles+shouts of 'George+Dom', often followed by a hug. One student, Nkosi, screeched when he saw us,ran as fast as he could to us+threw his arms around us in a great big hug! It was really a wonderful feeling,+one that is not matched by the reserved English welcome I'm used to.
Many people here get rather excited to hear we're from England because it's a long way away+is considered the home of Anglican Christianity. It's not rare for people to thank us for coming out here to visit them when we're also trying to thank them for letting us visit! Several people have even asked for photo's of us with them so they can show their friends+family who have never seen before an English person,or in some cases a white person.
And on return from our week in Q'town,we were met with great smiles+shouts of 'George+Dom', often followed by a hug. One student, Nkosi, screeched when he saw us,ran as fast as he could to us+threw his arms around us in a great big hug! It was really a wonderful feeling,+one that is not matched by the reserved English welcome I'm used to.
'Georgina and Tom'
While on placement at Q'town, many people Dom+I met couldn't quite cope with our names! George is only a mans name in S.A. +Dom means 'stupid' in Afrikaans!! As a result, many people throughout the week called me Georgina and him Tom. Those we were just meeting as a one-off we found it easier not to correct but those we were spending more time with we tried to be clearer with..but it wasn't always easy!
Good news with the bad
As many of you know,during much of our time in Oxfordshire,Jon was working as an Assistant Bar Manager in town. After unfortunately loosing his job last autumn,he struggled to find work until starting working at a cinema selling tickets+the like -which was better than nothing. It was on a 3month contract which we hoped they'd extend, however they haven't.
In about 2weeks Jon was due to join me here for a fortnight. However,as it may be difficult for him to find work as he can't start until 4weeks or can but needs a fortnight off almost right away, as we're moving in about 3months anyway,+as there's a recession+so few jobs around,we decided he'll fly out here early+so be with me for just over 4weeks, arriving tomorrow!! Indeed,I think God must have planned it to happen this way.
It'll be wonderful to see him but also for him to experience life here rather than coming after term ends+experiencing S.A. as just a tourist destination. My time here will stay with me a long time+will be something I'll talk with Jon about a lot. So for him to experience life here too (i.e.the people,the cultures,services, lectures,etc) will enable him to also understand my time here.
In about 2weeks Jon was due to join me here for a fortnight. However,as it may be difficult for him to find work as he can't start until 4weeks or can but needs a fortnight off almost right away, as we're moving in about 3months anyway,+as there's a recession+so few jobs around,we decided he'll fly out here early+so be with me for just over 4weeks, arriving tomorrow!! Indeed,I think God must have planned it to happen this way.
It'll be wonderful to see him but also for him to experience life here rather than coming after term ends+experiencing S.A. as just a tourist destination. My time here will stay with me a long time+will be something I'll talk with Jon about a lot. So for him to experience life here too (i.e.the people,the cultures,services, lectures,etc) will enable him to also understand my time here.
Graduation
Before we went to Q'town,COTT held its graduation service. In S.A. academic yrs run,sensibly,from Jan-Dec.At COTT all study for a Diploma in Theology+Ministry or a Diploma in Theology. Unfortunately these are only recognised at COTT+not at other educational institutions.
The day before graduation,all Formations Groups had a job to do around the college. Mine had to clean the sports courts. As it was 38oC,after spending about 40mins sweeping the volleyball court we decided,under the guidance of the Chaplin Funguyi,not to bother with the tennis court!
The graduation service was held in a chapel of a local school +was a Eucharist service with the giving out of certificates +hoods. Various Bishops came+,unlike usual,there were many servers+ incense too. I did the first reading +Dom+Titus did much as the Altar Prep-ers. It was a joyous event+1chorus was sung with even more vigor than usual+many were dancing (myself includ. of course)+carried on like this for quite sometime. The final hymn was sung similarly+we even danced+sung down the aisle as we left the chapel. It was wonderful!
The day before graduation,all Formations Groups had a job to do around the college. Mine had to clean the sports courts. As it was 38oC,after spending about 40mins sweeping the volleyball court we decided,under the guidance of the Chaplin Funguyi,not to bother with the tennis court!
The graduation service was held in a chapel of a local school +was a Eucharist service with the giving out of certificates +hoods. Various Bishops came+,unlike usual,there were many servers+ incense too. I did the first reading +Dom+Titus did much as the Altar Prep-ers. It was a joyous event+1chorus was sung with even more vigor than usual+many were dancing (myself includ. of course)+carried on like this for quite sometime. The final hymn was sung similarly+we even danced+sung down the aisle as we left the chapel. It was wonderful!
Above: Graduates. Below: Me with Titus
Queenstown
I've just spent a week in Queenstown based in the mouth of a volcano! Well,it was a volcano many years ago+as a result is surrounded by mountains. The plan was to spend a week experiencing life of a Priest in S.A. This started well but after a few days Helen,Rev.Reg's wife,had to go to hospital some distance from Q'town+so Reg went with her. Consequently, Dom+I were left on our own+instead had a few dys relaxing -mainly sitting in the sun reading,swimming in their pool,+ watching TV. It was actually great to have our first bit of time since getting here completely to ourselves+I feel V. refreshed!
As Reg+Helen were away,they arranged for various people to bring round dinner each evening which was food we eat at home+so was heaven!We even had pudding too!!
Reg's assistant,Fr.Bebe+his wife took us out for dinner 1evening too...at a casino! This was rather eventful as Bebe feel to sleep during dinner+then took us to the children's section of the casino to play on the amusements..among other things!!
A couple of elderly ladies also took us 1dy to buy African material to make into various things when at home as a nice reminder of our time here+to Lawrence de Lango Nature Reserve where we saw more springbok,ostriches,zebras,+also buffalow+rhino's! They were V. close again which was great+we had to drive off as 1rhino was heading right for us!
We did do some productive things too though:
We visited Nkosi Matanzima,a man who's wife had died in a car accident. This was in a location in Nogate Township+in the building where the council of Traditional Leaders meet as Nkosi is the chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders. There's many 'Traditional Leaders' spread over a large geographical area including over 150 settlements+Nkosi is the chief of these. The round building had stone walls,a straw roof+ just 1 room.People wandered in to pay their condolences to Nkosi by sitting there a while+then standing up+giving a speech/sermon to the whole room.After this,Nkosi asked us to go to his house for refreshments.He+the others present stayed there while we went into his house+were given a cool drink+ cake. Moses (a Priest from a neighbouring parish to Reg) spoke to a gentleman in Xhosa+after a while we left.
We also went with Moses to a couple of home Communions+ anointings of the sick.Wonderfully,a group of about 10lay people also came to offer their support.
We observed a meeting with the Archdeacon(i.e.Reg)+his clergy. They discussed the installation of the 1st Bishop+the consecration of the Church into a Cathedral as the Q'town area was recently made into a new diocese. This means the Bishop of Grahamstown has a smaller area to work in (Q'town is a 3hour drive from G'town) but Q'town is a poor area+they will struggle financially as a diocese on their own to sustain themselves.
We also participated in the youth group who's session was based on eradicating poverty+hunger.There was small group discussions,activities in the larger group,+of course like any youth group there was food+drink! They were V. interested about us+asked lots of Qs,incld. what snow was like,if we had sheep in the UK,+if we'd met the Queen! At the end,several got out their phones+wanted photos of them with us. On Sunday we saw some of them again at the Eucharist service+they greeted us with great smiles+hugs which was V. sweet.
We also went to the Anglican Women's Fellowship meeting+are now experts in all things concerning the A.W.F. from why they started to when to wear their badges!
As Reg+Helen were away,they arranged for various people to bring round dinner each evening which was food we eat at home+so was heaven!We even had pudding too!!
Reg's assistant,Fr.Bebe+his wife took us out for dinner 1evening too...at a casino! This was rather eventful as Bebe feel to sleep during dinner+then took us to the children's section of the casino to play on the amusements..among other things!!
A couple of elderly ladies also took us 1dy to buy African material to make into various things when at home as a nice reminder of our time here+to Lawrence de Lango Nature Reserve where we saw more springbok,ostriches,zebras,+also buffalow+rhino's! They were V. close again which was great+we had to drive off as 1rhino was heading right for us!
We did do some productive things too though:
We visited Nkosi Matanzima,a man who's wife had died in a car accident. This was in a location in Nogate Township+in the building where the council of Traditional Leaders meet as Nkosi is the chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders. There's many 'Traditional Leaders' spread over a large geographical area including over 150 settlements+Nkosi is the chief of these. The round building had stone walls,a straw roof+ just 1 room.People wandered in to pay their condolences to Nkosi by sitting there a while+then standing up+giving a speech/sermon to the whole room.After this,Nkosi asked us to go to his house for refreshments.He+the others present stayed there while we went into his house+were given a cool drink+ cake. Moses (a Priest from a neighbouring parish to Reg) spoke to a gentleman in Xhosa+after a while we left.
We also went with Moses to a couple of home Communions+ anointings of the sick.Wonderfully,a group of about 10lay people also came to offer their support.
We observed a meeting with the Archdeacon(i.e.Reg)+his clergy. They discussed the installation of the 1st Bishop+the consecration of the Church into a Cathedral as the Q'town area was recently made into a new diocese. This means the Bishop of Grahamstown has a smaller area to work in (Q'town is a 3hour drive from G'town) but Q'town is a poor area+they will struggle financially as a diocese on their own to sustain themselves.
We also participated in the youth group who's session was based on eradicating poverty+hunger.There was small group discussions,activities in the larger group,+of course like any youth group there was food+drink! They were V. interested about us+asked lots of Qs,incld. what snow was like,if we had sheep in the UK,+if we'd met the Queen! At the end,several got out their phones+wanted photos of them with us. On Sunday we saw some of them again at the Eucharist service+they greeted us with great smiles+hugs which was V. sweet.
We also went to the Anglican Women's Fellowship meeting+are now experts in all things concerning the A.W.F. from why they started to when to wear their badges!
Away on Placement
Tomorrow Dom+I are off for a week on a placement. We're staying with the Archdeacon of Queenstown-as you do! We wanted experience of life in a parish+Fr.Reg Morgan is also a Parish Priest. Its about 3hours drive from Grahamstown+used to be part of the same diocese but recently was made into a new diocese called Ukhahlamba.
HOPE Africa
Last week was a Poverty+Development course run by HOPE Africa. When it started it was actually Theology+Development, +like some other courses we're doing it was quite basic. We've also already covered much of the taught things such as the pastoral cycle. Though we did have lots of small group discussions about topics including rape+drug abuse which was V. interesting but not always easy.
Also,like must of S.A. theology it was rooted in liberation theology,i.e.the idea that Jesus' teachings focused on liberating the poor, marginalised+oppressed from unjust social,political+ economic conditions +so the Church should listen to these people+help liberate them today.
The overarching theme was that God is focused on shalom ('peace')+the Church should be striving to bring this about. I wanted to know where love came in because I'm pretty sure, as cheesy at it sounds, that God is love+therefore all He does+ therefore all we do in His name should be rooted in love too.
Also,like must of S.A. theology it was rooted in liberation theology,i.e.the idea that Jesus' teachings focused on liberating the poor, marginalised+oppressed from unjust social,political+ economic conditions +so the Church should listen to these people+help liberate them today.
The overarching theme was that God is focused on shalom ('peace')+the Church should be striving to bring this about. I wanted to know where love came in because I'm pretty sure, as cheesy at it sounds, that God is love+therefore all He does+ therefore all we do in His name should be rooted in love too.
Churches around Grahamstown
On Sundays we've visited different Churches in Grahamstown, mostly with students Titus,Amos+others. Its been v. interesting.
St.Michael+St.George's Cathedral -They usually have a straight forward Eucharist from the APB said in English with an organ+piano accompanying the hymns +marimbas accompanying the Xhosa Eucharistic setting. BUT it was Valentine's Day so as well as this they had the renewal of wedding vows for the whole congregation! I was not keen on this as it excluded a significant part of the congregation,i.e. children,single people,widowed people,people there without their spouse,the nuns who were there,+even married people there who actually didnt want to renew their vows for whatever reason. Indeed,there was no recognition that marriage isnt always wonderful,apart from 1sentence about acknowledging that some have difficult marriages,followed with "but we're not talking about that today"!
St.Augustine's -Another Xhosa speaking community in a location. This was similar to St.Philip's in several ways,though was different as about 30people were robed,many of which were lay ministers,+the majority did nothing! The service started at 9:20 when there were about 30people there,by 10:00 the place was full with over 100people.
St.Clement's -This is just outside of the town center+is a poor Church but is not in a location+so I doubt it is as poor as those Churches. They had an interesting Cross with the blood of Jesus on rather than His body.As you can imagine,I liked it! Their service is in English+we were told there was a vestry meeting (the Churches AGM)+assumed this was at the end,but no!It was in the middle of the service instead of the sermon,Creed+ prayers!! I didnt like that as it completely broke up the service. Interestingly though,everyone raved about how organised the Priest (who is English) was but Dom+I didn't think she was any more organised than anyone we know+even less organised than some! I dread to think what other vestry meetings are like here then!
Christ Church -Hang on,am I in England or South Africa?! This was the only congregation which was predominately white,the service followed the English Book of Common Prayer,the hymns were accompanied by an organ,+it was the only place that offered refreshments afterwards. In fact,I had an Earl Grey tea!-which I dont actually like but felt I had to have as it reminded me of England! This Church was,however,the first which not only wasn't full,but was less than half full.
St.Philip's -a Xhosa speaking community in Fingo location. Outside the Church was a typical location with the poorly built houses+animals wandering around freely such as donkeys. However,inside was similar to UK Churches,with a golden lectern+chalices,etc. The service started late+the Church was full. Everyone was wearing very smart clothes (myself included as I had been for warned about this!)+many women were in the M.U.'s uniform here of purple jackets+black woollen hats. The service followed the,now familiar,S.A. Anglican Prayer Book (APB). However the Church didnt provide these or hymns books,which is obv. due to cost. The service included many hymns+lasted over 2hours. Following which was 40mins of notices!!..all of which in an unfamiliar language.
St.Michael+St.George's Cathedral -They usually have a straight forward Eucharist from the APB said in English with an organ+piano accompanying the hymns +marimbas accompanying the Xhosa Eucharistic setting. BUT it was Valentine's Day so as well as this they had the renewal of wedding vows for the whole congregation! I was not keen on this as it excluded a significant part of the congregation,i.e. children,single people,widowed people,people there without their spouse,the nuns who were there,+even married people there who actually didnt want to renew their vows for whatever reason. Indeed,there was no recognition that marriage isnt always wonderful,apart from 1sentence about acknowledging that some have difficult marriages,followed with "but we're not talking about that today"!
St.Augustine's -Another Xhosa speaking community in a location. This was similar to St.Philip's in several ways,though was different as about 30people were robed,many of which were lay ministers,+the majority did nothing! The service started at 9:20 when there were about 30people there,by 10:00 the place was full with over 100people.
St.Clement's -This is just outside of the town center+is a poor Church but is not in a location+so I doubt it is as poor as those Churches. They had an interesting Cross with the blood of Jesus on rather than His body.As you can imagine,I liked it! Their service is in English+we were told there was a vestry meeting (the Churches AGM)+assumed this was at the end,but no!It was in the middle of the service instead of the sermon,Creed+ prayers!! I didnt like that as it completely broke up the service. Interestingly though,everyone raved about how organised the Priest (who is English) was but Dom+I didn't think she was any more organised than anyone we know+even less organised than some! I dread to think what other vestry meetings are like here then!
Christ Church -Hang on,am I in England or South Africa?! This was the only congregation which was predominately white,the service followed the English Book of Common Prayer,the hymns were accompanied by an organ,+it was the only place that offered refreshments afterwards. In fact,I had an Earl Grey tea!-which I dont actually like but felt I had to have as it reminded me of England! This Church was,however,the first which not only wasn't full,but was less than half full.
Altar Prep
Recently I was on Altar Prep. duty (aka sacristan). This meant getting to chapel by 6am to do various bits+bobs like unlocking the chapel,lighting candles,setting the Altar table up,ringing the bell,etc. Kindly a couple of students here Titus+Gregory helped me 1day each so I wouldn't forget anything.
The thing I most enjoyed about this was that here they do it in their normal clothes,i.e. not cassocks. I found this very liberating as well as affirming that God has called me as I am+that He wants me to be myself in my black shorts+flip-flops+all! And all this before 8:00am -it sure is true that wonders never cease!
The thing I most enjoyed about this was that here they do it in their normal clothes,i.e. not cassocks. I found this very liberating as well as affirming that God has called me as I am+that He wants me to be myself in my black shorts+flip-flops+all! And all this before 8:00am -it sure is true that wonders never cease!
more on martial arts!!
Recently I explained Titus thought I was Chinese partly because I look like I can do karate. Well a couple of days later,another student (who didnt know Titus had said this) asked if I was trained at karate as a child!! I said no+asked why,he said because of the way I walk looks like I do karate!
Then today I was walking through town+a young man I'd never seen before stopped me+asked if I can do karate or tai chi (actually he didnt use those words,he said 'can you do....and then did actions!!)! Again I said no+asked why,+he also said because of the way I walk looks like I do!!
I dont have a clue what this is about!
Then today I was walking through town+a young man I'd never seen before stopped me+asked if I can do karate or tai chi (actually he didnt use those words,he said 'can you do....and then did actions!!)! Again I said no+asked why,+he also said because of the way I walk looks like I do!!
I dont have a clue what this is about!
Typhoid and Toxic Metal Poisoning!!
A recent announcement at dinner: "Municipality have confirmed someone got typhoon from drinking Grahamstown water."
Blumin' heck can you imagine getting a typhoon!?! No,nor can I! So I'm guessing they meant typhoid. Luckily we were vaccinated against typhoid before coming here.
However,some investigations (i.e. googleing!) led to the discovery that there's "ALARMINGLY high levels of deadly toxic metals in Grahamstown’s tap water"!! Long-term drinking of the water can lead to all sorts,including memory loss+arsenic poisoning!! Long-term drinking of the water can...haha!
Seriously though,if you drink it for less than 3months you should be fine. We've been here about 5weeks now+today bought liters of bottled water for the remainder of our time here. The other students however,are drinking the water as much as before!
Oh+here's a line I particularly liked from the article about this:"Although some heavy metal consumption may not be immediately problematic,concerns have been raised over the long-term accumulative affect"
Blumin' heck can you imagine getting a typhoon!?! No,nor can I! So I'm guessing they meant typhoid. Luckily we were vaccinated against typhoid before coming here.
However,some investigations (i.e. googleing!) led to the discovery that there's "ALARMINGLY high levels of deadly toxic metals in Grahamstown’s tap water"!! Long-term drinking of the water can lead to all sorts,including memory loss+arsenic poisoning!! Long-term drinking of the water can...haha!
Seriously though,if you drink it for less than 3months you should be fine. We've been here about 5weeks now+today bought liters of bottled water for the remainder of our time here. The other students however,are drinking the water as much as before!
Oh+here's a line I particularly liked from the article about this:"Although some heavy metal consumption may not be immediately problematic,concerns have been raised over the long-term accumulative affect"
I think I'm turning Chinese...
Titus told me when I arrived he thought I was Chinese because:
I'm so small -yep I guess I understand why he said that.
because of my hair -ok I kinda understand.
because of how my eyes look -nope dont understand that!
and because I look scary like I could kick someones head off -yep I defo understand why he said that!! haha
He even did an impression of the martial arts he thought I could do,with sound effects!Now I keep doing them+chasing him!!
I'm so small -yep I guess I understand why he said that.
because of my hair -ok I kinda understand.
because of how my eyes look -nope dont understand that!
and because I look scary like I could kick someones head off -yep I defo understand why he said that!! haha
He even did an impression of the martial arts he thought I could do,with sound effects!Now I keep doing them+chasing him!!
Discombobulating
During the first 2wks I felt utterly discombobulated! Its really a strange feeling being away from the culture you're used to,family +friends,+all your things. Its like suddenly you dont know who you are,because everything that makes you you is gone.
At the start,being in such a new context my personality wasn't completely displayed -not that I acted differently to how I am, just I was me with the metaphorical (+actual!) volume down. Add to this how removed I felt from the heavy metal 'world', +I wasn't sure what was left,or if what was left was even me. I think it must have been me but somehow a lesser me.
Thankfully since getting used to the culture,I was soon to my usual self.I also found fun people I can be myself with. And with Dom here too I dont feel totally removed from english culture.
Also I've internet access so have contact with family+friends which helps ground me in life outside of S.A.
And I'm also using the internet to keep upto date with heavy metal -though I still feel somewhat removed from it all (despite having music here) since I haven't had any conversations about it for a long time (espec. as I can't access facebook+my mates on their), haven't been to a gig for a while,+was limited what I could pack so didn't bring many metal clothes,etc...I know this may sound trivial to some, but its really a big part of my identity.
It also initially helped a great deal that I came to an Anglican culture -if that was lacking as well as everything else who knows where I'd be!?(not that I need a community to be close to God, but it provided me with something I'm used to+at home within)
So rest assured,while I'm still missing much from home,the essence of George has survived amidst discombobulation!
At the start,being in such a new context my personality wasn't completely displayed -not that I acted differently to how I am, just I was me with the metaphorical (+actual!) volume down. Add to this how removed I felt from the heavy metal 'world', +I wasn't sure what was left,or if what was left was even me. I think it must have been me but somehow a lesser me.
Thankfully since getting used to the culture,I was soon to my usual self.I also found fun people I can be myself with. And with Dom here too I dont feel totally removed from english culture.
Also I've internet access so have contact with family+friends which helps ground me in life outside of S.A.
And I'm also using the internet to keep upto date with heavy metal -though I still feel somewhat removed from it all (despite having music here) since I haven't had any conversations about it for a long time (espec. as I can't access facebook+my mates on their), haven't been to a gig for a while,+was limited what I could pack so didn't bring many metal clothes,etc...I know this may sound trivial to some, but its really a big part of my identity.
It also initially helped a great deal that I came to an Anglican culture -if that was lacking as well as everything else who knows where I'd be!?(not that I need a community to be close to God, but it provided me with something I'm used to+at home within)
So rest assured,while I'm still missing much from home,the essence of George has survived amidst discombobulation!
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