So this is my first time to blog on our trip. I wish I had something profound to say to make up for my lack of input, but I don't. I've basically been allowing this moment in my life to just soak inside... God has revealed so much to me throughout this trip. Though I may have more questions than answers now, I do believe something powerful is at work in my heart.I love Africa. It's a wonderful place full of hope, though many are suffering and in need right now.
Today the group and myself took a trip out to the famous Robben Island, a place where many political prisoners were held during the height of Apartheid. The most famous prisoner to be held was Nelson Mandela. This man truly inspires me. His passion is something I long to have. I've never known segregation and I've never experienced persecution. My life has always been pretty safe. I don't know what it is like to have to sacrifice and fight for what I believe is right. My heart breaks for those who do. Those that struggle for peace and freedom are my heroes. I pray I can obtain that kind of passion...
Maybe that is why I'm here in Africa... Maybe I'm here to reclaim my passion...On a lighter note... Our group was stranded on Robben Island after the ferry broke down and was unable to pick us up. We spent several hours stuck on the island. I now feel like I've gained a certain bond with Mr. Mandela, because I can proudly say that I too was a prisoner on Robben Island. haha! I believe I'll make t-shirts!
To the left you see Nelson Mandela's prison cell. I'll leave you with a quote by him that happens to be on many of the souvenirs at Robben Island...
To the left you see Nelson Mandela's prison cell. I'll leave you with a quote by him that happens to be on many of the souvenirs at Robben Island...
"I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve but if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." - Nelson Mandela
4 comments:
jono! glad to hear you made it back from the island, sounds like quite the ordeal.
keep rockin it, we're praying for you all over here! love you man
rockon mabrotha. Looking forward to hearing your stories when you get home.
You blogged!
I'm glad you're loving it - can't wait to hear everything when you get back.
I was born and raised in South Africa, and lived there before and during the Apartheid years. I am now living in Nashville. My family and I visited Robben Island during our last trip to SA in 2004. It was a most moving experience, and made me realize and appreciate Nelson Mandela's incredible faith, hope and vision for his country despite his incarceration.
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