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Learning my history

7/12/2010

2 Comments

 
Picture
from: www.nkosi-fotografie.nl
Yesterday I watched Invictus, and I realized that I know very, very little beyond the basics of Nelson Mandela.  I also realized that I would very much like to learn more. 

I followed the reports of Mr. Mandela making an appearance at the World Cup yesterday despite failing health and personal tragedy.  (His 13 year old great grand-daughter recently passed away.)  The 91 year old, who needs assistance walking, completed a lap of the pitch while perched on the back of a golf cart.

Today I am heading out to buy Nelson Mandela's autobiography.  (It's not available in Kindle form, darn it!) 

History is often so far away, so far in the past, the it seems almost a fairy tale.  I know the difference is that history actually happened, but trying to imagine the construction of the pyramids, or the Great Wall of China is, to me, much like trying to imagine the moment where the prince slips a shoe on Cinderella's foot.  It's just words on a page. 

But the wondrous ability to travel changes all that.  I'll never forget the overwhelming weight of history as I stood before the Parthenon in Greece.  Or how easy it was to picture life in Pompeii while walking down its cobbled streets, or the clear understanding I had when I realized what the Berlin Wall had been and what it had meant.  Seeing history close up, touching it, and experiencing that moment of understanding is one of my favourite parts of traveling.  I can't wait to see and learn more about South Africa. 

2 Comments
Erin Osborne
7/13/2010 02:46:28 am

Dear Brandy,

I’m sitting here at work with a group of my residents and I have just finished reading your latest post to them. So far they have found everything very interesting. One of my residents stated that she thought it was interesting because they would never be able to imagine everything about taking a trip like this. They have been surprised and shocked by some of the things you wrote, such as the price of the plane ticket, as most of them are in their 90’s they find it amazing how much everything now costs compared to when they were younger. They also found it interesting to hear about the type of things you will the doing out there.

They do have a couple of question for you. One resident asked where the people get their food and supplies from for everyday living. Another resident wanted to know if South Africa is still very segregated or if things have changed to the point where the country is more integrated now.

Other than that, they want you to know that you are in their prayers as you embark on this adventure, and wish you luck. They are looking forward to hearing and seeing more as your trip progresses.

Until next time, take care.

Love Erin.

(And best wishes from the residents of Golden West)

Reply
Brandy
7/13/2010 03:03:00 am

Erin,

Please pass my best wishes on to your residents and thank them for following along. It makes the whole trip more exciting to know that someone cares about what you're doing.

I don't know the answers to the questions asked, yet. But I will find out when I'm there and post when I know! One of my goals is to post a lot of pictures, too, so that people can see what I'm talking about, rather than just reading about it.

If there are any other questions that pop up, I'll be happy to do my best to answer those as well.

Love,
Brandy

Reply



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