Molweni!

15 Mar 09

Song for this post: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6b_9blNcio

Molweni or welcome in xhosa. (Xhosa is pronounced with a tounge click and then kosa). This is the native languate 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 lead 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 experssed thanks for our commitment to the community and home 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 intrested in learing from us and we are from them. AS Bonke so elequently stated earlier in the day, "It is always good to check your angles on all things". What e meant by this was the importance of a difrferent 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 an item for which we sang " you are my sunshine" (one of my gran's favs) 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 sterength. 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 and one that I am sure neither ment nor us will forget.