twinutero

It’s impossible to write from South Africa this week and not comment on the violence that has flared in the country.

When we arrived in South Africa last January, the people I met were friendly and welcoming. Those same people, however, were surprised and curious as to why a Canadian family would move to South Africa, when so many South Africans were looking to emigrate to Canada and elsewhere.

That exodus seems much more likely now. And, of course, thousands of immigrants are fleeing.

I’ve only lived here four months and I don’t get out much, but based on the people I’ve talked to, frustration in this country is chronic. Frustration that life for everyone isn’t better. People seem worried about the future, especially for their children, and are unsettled by political and social uncertainty – a feeling that anything can happen. Yet everyone says, with a shake of their head, what a beautiful country this is.

People I’ve spoken to this week are deeply, profoundly disturbed by the violence. There’s much discussion of root causes and possible solutions but also a consensus that nothing excuses violence.

So I’m adding my voice to countless who condemn violence, apathy and intolerance. And if I’m on edge about the safety of my family, my heart goes out to all mothers in more vulnerable places this week.