I spend a bit of time this morning to look into what 'Reconciliation Day' means to people in South Africa. First I looked online...
Wikipedia says: "The holiday came into effect in 1994 after the end of apartheid, with the intention of fostering reconciliation and national unity."
AfricanHistory.com say: "Afrikaners traditionally celebrated 16 December as the Day of the Vow, remembering the day in 1838 when a group of Voortrekkers defeated a Zulu army at the Battle of Blood River, while ANC activists commemorated it as the day in 1961 when the ANC started to arm its soldiers to overthrow Apartheid. In the new South Africa's it's a day of reconciliation, a day to focus on overcoming the conflicts of the past and building a new nation."
And then I went to Wynberg Park where hundreds of people were gathering for a Concert in the Park. Families and Friends meeting up to spend this day together. Bringing blankets and picnic baskets. There was dance, joy and laughter. Such a loving atmosphere - sharing and caring!
After this Nathalie and I went to a Braai at dear friends. I felt so grateful for the moments shared and cared!
For me... each day is a day of UNITY... each day is a day of UBUNTU... there is no ME without YOU!
IN GRATITUDE
Karina
