Reflection

So I am back in the States. I have been. It has been nice to slowly adapt back into American society. I'm now back to watching American football and basketball instead of soccer and cricket. I now talk about a BBQ instead of a braai. I now have my two crazy sisters instead of crazy room mates. Instead of talking about corruption and money in politics, we now talk about...oh wait, there's no change there.

It is so nice to see my family and friends again. I miss the ones from South Africa but my friends here have known me longer so they get that added plus. Family is something that everyone should value. Even if they might be a little strange. Just kidding! :-)

Everyone asks me, "how was South Africa?" I always answer - "It was weird." It really was. The mix of traditional Zulu culture with modernization. The collegiate atmosphere in the middle of Africa. The silence of AIDS. The troubles of crime. The promise of a developing country and the sheer utter excitement when you get to see it changing over six months. The presidential nominee in political trouble. Nelson Mandela's great triumph. The great residents and the diversity of cultures. The still-lingering racial tensions. How can one truly describe it all?

What have I learned? Don't take things for what they may first appear to be. You will have a very different experience going as a tourist than someone who lives there for an extended period of time. As a tourist, you won't be able to see Africa for what it is. Even after living there for a long time, it would still be hard to say what exactly Africa is. In fact, I don't even think one can adequately give a definition. Sub-saharan Africa is totally different from the rest of Africa and South Africa is totally different than even Lesotho, a country completely surrounded by RSA (acronym for S. Africa).

One thing is for sure: the people who live in the area of southern Africa are people who love. Despite all the statistics and bad parts, these people are committed to creating a renewed community where everyone is accepted for who they are. Then they love to make you better.

So, here in the States - let's do the same. We see all the time during various disasters, big metro ones and personal ones. Let's make it a priority in our lives and live selflessly in love.

I Promise!!!

That return home update is coming. I haven't finished coming completely home yet so hence the delay. I'm in San Diego making my final sweeps of seeing friends and also looking for housing.

Here's South Africa in the news.

Also, be on the lookout for a link to a new blog.

Back Safe and Sound

Sorry to leave you all on the hook but I am back in the States safe and sound. I'll give a bigger update of my return this weekend.

Cape Town

Wow! My road trip across South Africa was very interesting!

Traveling from Zululand and the Durban area to the Garden Route and Cape Town is like traveling through different countries. In the middle is an area called the Eastern Cape which could be considered its own little country. Not only are the people different in each place, but the ecosystems and environments are different. Dialects, histories, languages, mannerisms, etc. all change. Suddenly, the way you've acted for 4 months becomes strange and foreign (well, being American is already foreign enough but still).

The Western Cape (where Cape Town is located) is obviously the richest/cleanest/safest province in South Africa. Afrikaans, not Zulu, is the main language; white people work behind convenience store counters, and the police inspire faith. Healthy foods replace KFCs. Walking at night replaces calling for security escorts. Even the poor dress better and/or play music to beg. Cape Town is definitely not the Africa I've come to know. It is such a different experience that it has to be compared in its own regard. I have to admit that I had my culture shock there and that CT was wayyy too touristy for my taste. However, the up sides were that interracial interaction was higher and eco-friendly things are happening. Now if the city (or country, for that matter) can get rid of cocaine, glue-sniffers, and harassment...

I'm glad that I studied in KwaZulu-Natal. I felt as though I received an "African" experience. Granted, I had some modern comforts but I felt closer to real and true South African life. In Cape Town, I feel as though it would've been like going to Europe or New York. It was a good way to end this trip here in South Africa. I'm being acculturated in time for my flight in less than 48 hours back to the States. It is difficult to sum the trip in words. Many emotions, feelings, thoughts, and memories surround it - positive and negative. I will have to say that the trip as a whole was great. I learned to live on my own, isolated from my family and all but one of my friends. I maintained my identity, discovered new interests and hobbies, and experienced a vibrant and thriving culture.

South Africa. A distinct and unique country that cannot be adequately defined by any particular race, religion, or region. It is an ambiguous term that attempts to describe a collection of people attempting to live together. Despite all of its problems, the country is progressing in various stages in its own time. It is full of potential. It has made amazing strides so far. It just needs to keep going and keep working. At least until three in the afternoon.

Complete!

I have finished the long and arduous journey otherwise known as a "semester." I am so thankful that I get to return to the quarter system. This thing was way too long.

I've got a bunch of reservations set for my trip to Cape Town. Hotels, hostels, rental car, and Cape Town excursions are all planned and ready to go. Of course, I've left about two days in CT to do whatever comes up. Everyone who I've talked to is excited for me and wants to come along with. They all say Cape Town is beautiful and the place to be.

I was sitting in my room and I thought about how easy it will be to pack. I pretty much just have clothes, school work, and books to pack. I spent all my money on trips and food. I did decide that I was going to buy all my touristy goods the last week so I wouldn't have to hold on to it for too long. My greatest treasures are in the pictures and friends I've made. Aww, how corny!

Anyways, the next time you hear from me, I'll be on the road! Less than two weeks until I come home! Gasp!

Thunderstorms

The weather reflects the attitude of several Americans and exchange students at the moment.

Here is an article about the rape.

Headlines

Sorry about the lack of posts. I'm in the midst of writing exams and paying off housing fees so that's taking up a lot of my time.

Exciting news! My friends and I made the Pietermaritzburg paper! We had a full-page article on page 7 under the 'Travel' section for our spring break road trip. One of our drivers, Zam, is a writer for the paper, "The Witness." All of a sudden - we had our very own article! I bought a copy so I'll have to show everyone when I get home.

Sad news... One of the American students at UKZN in Durban (not Becca) was raped this past week. We were all shooken up by it because the news on the t.v. didn't tell us which campus. After checking up with all of the girls at PMB and Becca, a mixed feeling of relief and sorrow filled our hearts. We're all on edge because we're so close to the end and we don't want anything bad to happen now. I hope that girl has strong friends around her but the whole situation just sucks. South Africa is a country that has one of the highest amounts of rape. Usually, though, it's between people that have a previous knowledge of one another. I don't know any details about this case but there is just no excuse for this behavior. It's this kind of thing that can really dampen the image of a country.

Summertime!

Well, the end of instruction ended not a moment too soon. With a flurry of papers due, I soon found myself awake during "California hours." Now that a weekend of summer has passed, I'm back to South African time while you folks back home move back an hour, making the separation 10 hours. We are basically doing the opposite things now.

Only 2.5 weeks until my trip to Cape Town, 3.5 until I fly back home, and 1 week until my first exam.

Nothing much going on here right now. Just relaxing, hanging out with people, and going to the mall to windowshop/buy >$10 shirts.

Spring Break, Part Four

Day Six: Kruger, South Africa - Tofo, Mozambique

After enjoying a few days of safari, it was time to relax at the beach. How long until we get there? An hour? Two? After stopping at a gas station (which had ridiculous prices being in Mozam), we asked the attendent how long it would take. Six...from Maputo. What time is it? Four? Oh dear...

In what was probably the most traumatic experience of all of our lives, we drove to our humble destination in Tofo. Potholes were everywhere. It was a long, slow drive with sudden frights every ten minutes because trucks would swerve into our "lane" to avoid the potholes. After losing about ten years of our lives, we finally arrived at Tofo. Of course, our hostel was not clearly marked, we got stuck in the sand and resorted to teams of two searching for anyone who could help.

Day Seven: The Beach

The next day, it was soooo relaxing. There was a beach, a beautiful beach, and that is all we cared about. We did absolutely nothing. It was great. We read, we swam, we ignored the brown water out of the faucets and we drank our lovely water bottles from South Africa. It was great. It was a place where you could just ignore the rest of the world. I feel like one could live there for twenty years and never be updated on anything outside your little beach.

Oh, speaking of nothing - that is what Mozambique is. There is absolutely nothing for miles and miles. You'll have small villages of about 100 people scattered here and there but outside that - the bush and the ocean. That's it. There was a decently sized community in Tofo and Maputo is a pretty big city but the landscape is just so barren and so empty that you can feel lost.

Day Eight: Tofo - Maputo

We left the beach a day too early, according to everyone's opinion, but we had to get back to Pietermaritzburg the next day...

We arrived in Maputo to a downpour. It was getting late since we had been pulled over twice in an hour because the police saw our nice rental cars and South African plates. We gave them bribes to leave us alone and we went on our merry way.

Day Nine: Maputo, Mozambique - Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

The end to our road trip was filled with driving, driving, driving. It took 12 hours to get back. By the time we arrived in PMB, we had enough of driving. But we did enjoy our time on the road and in new places, experiencing Southern Africa to the fullest. New people, animals, and landscapes had filled our senses to the brim with great memories.

From One Corner of the World to Another

On a lamp post near an intersection in a residential area of Pietermaritzburg, a small placard read, "Many Flee US Fires." Yes, California has officially arrived in South Africa. I feel like Frodo Baggins, ready to head back to the Shire, which has been ravaged by flames. California has become the center of world attention.

Good news is that everyone I know is safe. I know some people who have been evacuated and I know that UCSD is closed for the week. I'm pretty proud of the stories come out to me, though - stories of people giving each other places to stay, volunteer work, and food and water runs. I hope no one's house burns down. I just saw a picture of a cabin from Running Springs in flames so I'm not too sure how well my old house is doing there.

I wish I could send some of the rain that we've been getting here over to the States. Every morning, the sun is out and it is hot. By mid-afternoon, the clouds roll in for a frightening thunderstorm. We had hail yesterday and I saw lightning hit the ground about a hundred meters from my dorm room. As I type, ominous clouds are rolling in and thunder can be heard in the distance. Weather, it seems, is determined to make life difficult. Here and in California.

The Crew

Avi - UC Davis, CA, USA
Known for: Having his camera on his person at all times and coming up with the most amazing pictures ever!

Sarah - UC Santa Cruz, CA, USA
Known for: Being scared out of her mind while driving through Mozambique because trucks kept veering to our side of the road.

Tara - UC Santa Cruz, CA, USA
Known for: Eating an entire steak and still being hungry.

Kaitlin - UC Riverside, CA, USA
Known for: Having to pee every hour along with Tara.

Jacob - UC Berkeley, CA, USA
Known for: Being a "know-it-all" and just an overall Berkeley product.

E.J. - Rutgers, NJ, USA
Known for: Metrosexual who works at Express.

Tiffany - Rutgers, NJ, USA
Known for: Having a dance party in her car 24/7.

Karim - Germany
Known for: Being Tunisian.

Zam - South Africa
Known for: Getting pulled over 5 times because the Mozambique and Kruger police are corrupt and only want bribes. The only legitimate time he should've gotten pulled over was once in Kruger.

Becca - UC San Diego, CA, USA
Known for: Being Josh's girlfriend and having the nickname, "Mom."

Josh - UC San Diego, CA, USA
Known for: Navigator and Financial Organizer of the trip as well having the nickname, "Dad."

Classroom Notes

In my politics class, a Zulu stated that legislation over women's rights had to take into account cultural practices.

In my film class, a white South African was telling me about "reverse apartheid" and how all the whites are moving overseas when they get old enough.

Last night, my next door neighbor had an insightful discussion about the future of the world - debating about China, military usage, etc.

My art history class had a brief discussion about KFC and whether the chicken is good for you or not. Also, we talked about testicular cancer.

My religion class discussed the role of women in Islam.

Spring Break, Part Three

Day Three: Barberton Mountains

The best drive of the trip. Dirt road through the oldest place on earth. It was so beautiful that if I attempt to describe it, it wouldn't do it justice. So look at THIS!

Day Four and Five: Kruger National Park

Again. This is something that I can't really describe too much. We drove around in our cars in this giant game reserve called Kruger National Park and saw a whole bunch of animals!! They were all pretty close to the road - which is surprising, but I guess they all love the star spotlight! Completed the goal of seeing the Big 5 (leopard, lion, wildebeast, buffalo, and rhino) and was mighty satisfied. These PICTURES are still being updated - I hope to have this album done by tomorrow.

Spring Break, Part Two

Day Two: St. Lucia Estuary, South Africa - Mbabane, Swaziland

The group woke up and went on a boat cruise around the Estuary. It was like a real-life Jungle Cruise! There were hippos and crocodiles and horribly satisfying humor from the speakers! Didn't see any head-hunters though - just some tourists. After snapping a few pictures, we layed out on the deck and enjoyed the sun. It was nice and relaxing. After that, we meandered to the market to get some lunch. Hung out. Ate. Packed. Walked around.

Finally, we got into the cars and headed for Swaziland. We managed to reach the border within an hour and pulled up to a single gate with two guards. Slightly confused and wondering if we were at the right place, we inquired inside one of the buildings. After speaking to the only employee, we got our drivers to fill out forms and our passports stamped. We piled into the cars, the guards lifted the gate, and we were in! Welcome to Swaziland!

There is an immediate difference about Swaziland. In South Africa, the small towns have a decently sized population. In Swaziland, the small towns had numbers under 200. Everything was spread out. Nothingness. Uncultivated and barren land. Small huts would appear and every now and then there would be a sign,but it was quite desolate. Cars were barely seen at all on the main thoroughfare through the country. Dusk was arriving and we were continuing along - wait, why is Tara getting out of the car? Tara? Tara! Tara, why are you taking a picture of that hut? Sigh. Oh well, make it fas-- Tara, get in the car now! Oh man, there is a group of guys going up to her. Okay, Zam's there (Zam = local Zulu/South African). He doesn't look too happy. Okay, good. Get in the car. TARA! Don't get out of the car again!!

We eventually made our way to Manzini, second largest city in the country. It's probably as big as Gilroy. After getting lost because there are absolutely no road signs, we made our way onto a very nice looking highway. There were lights and signs and everything! Darkness had overtaken the country and we were hungry and tired. Finally, we made it to hostel #2 - Legends Backpackers. There wasn't anything so legendary about it. 10 beds in a box room that was probably the same size as my dorm room at UCSD - which was a single. We went to a nice hotel down the dirt road which had a nice restaurant.

Eating had never felt so good. And there was bread to start our meal! You have no idea how important bread is before your appetizer and meal. In South Africa, this is a rare occurrence and all of us mourn our lack of bread. The rest of the meal was like our others in restaurants in southern Africa - asking for water every 5 minutes, waiting for the check to be delivered to you, asking for the check after waiting 20 minutes, waiting for check for another 10 and then trying to figure out what is an acceptable tip. I love southern Africa - but if there is one thing that I say they need to work on, it is SERVICE. That and the whole AIDS, poverty, and crime thing.

Seriously, though, Swaziland has been hit hard by AIDS. Crime is actually less prevalant than in South Africa and it's true that you do feel safer there. I don't know if that's because it is run by a monarch or what but you feel okay walking on any sort of street. However, nearly 40% of the country is infected by HIV. Which is ridiculous. It's nearly that same amount in KwaZulu-Natal. I haven't talked much about HIV/AIDS because honestly - there are posters for testing and awareness but no one talks about it. They're tired of talking about it. It's like when you bring up Iraq in America. Everyone sighs and yawns and blanks out for a few minutes, hoping they're done talking about it. No one really wants to talk about everyone dying every single day. They just want to live their lives as free as possible with no worries. Of course, this is in the urban areas. The rural areas - you get AIDS and kiss your way of life goodbye. Social relationships are strained, you can't get to a clinic let alone pay for the medicine you need because you can't afford it, you get beaten up by your husband after telling him you have it and that he probably does too, and then you live your life in a weak and fragile state, watching your children mourn you as wither up and die. Not fun. Not good. And nearly half the population of southern Africa has it.

The worst part about it all is that I've seriously put some thought into what we can do to stop it. I honestly can't think of anything. Medicine? Funding? It all costs money - these countries don't have any. These people don't. So they will die. And the black upper and middle classes that are forming in South Africa will continue to buy their expensive cars and expensive clothes and live in their expensive flats. And the rest of the world will enjoy their expensive cars and expensive clothes and live in their expensive houses. How are we going to stop it? Education? Sure, but people still want sex. People want to live, to love, to enjoy. Abstinence? It would help a little. Not enough.

I guess we all just need to live life in moderation. The rich, the poor, the hungry, the powerful - we all need to care and not spend money just for the sake of spending money. We all need to change our priorities.

Spring Break, Part One

The beginning of the trip started out in Durban...about a day before it was scheduled to begin. One of the guys who was supposed to have reserved the rental cars didn't. Therefore, my girlfriend and I were thrust into a massive search for two 4x4 cars in one day. After visiting many rental offices and spending up all of my airtime, we found the ONE rental place that would allow us to go to Mozambique and had cars - Thrifty! My girlfriend and I returned to PMB so I could pack, grab my passport, and nap before returning to Durban in preparation for the next day.

Day One: Durban - St. Lucia Estuary

After our favorite cab driver arrived 45 minutes late, my girlfriend and I met up with the 9 other members of our journey at the airport. After an hour and a half of figuring out how to split costs, pay for insurance, and pack the cars, we were off! ...to McDonalds...in Durban. So, it was quite anti-climatic but we were hungry and it was near the highway. Tara got her happy meal and we continued on. We thought it would be a coastal, scenic drive, but the highway was actually a few km's inland so we were treated to fields of trees and green hills. Trees are a problem in South Africa. There are too many! Apparently, foreigners have bought land, are growing trees, sucking up the groundwater and riverwater which then ruins everyone's farms and such downstream.

Finally, we arrived at our destination - St. Lucia Estuary. We stayed at a hostel called, "BIB Backpackers." It was a nice place that had many European and Australian travelers. You are actually more likely to find an Australian on the road because they take 3-4 years out of their life to just travel the world. And it's not one month here, one month in Australia, one month there...it's 3-4 continuous years traveling. We piled into our huts and went on a small hike before going to the grocery store to get meat for the braai (BBQ). After seeing a Zulu traditional dance (Zulu dance count: 3), the meat was ready to be cooked and sleep soon descended upon us. Fatigue settled on most of us except for two, who decided to drink half a box of wine...which then led to an early morning wakeup call of vomiting. Yes. The road trip has begun.

Sweet Chariot

Our apartment hasn't been cleaned in two days and no one has seen the maid. Today, we had a new maid arrive to clean up the place.

Just before the break, our maid had said that she had to go to the clinic to check up on something. She was very nicely dressed in a black dress with thin black material that draped over her arms.

She should be okay.

I hope.

Class Update

The end of the first term of the semester. This means that there is a week long vacation, which I already went on, and a surge of grades coming back the week after. I don't really know why I haven't talked about my classes much - sorry everyone!

Art History - We had a new professor come in halfway through. This is a typical practice for courses that hold a big syllabus. One specializes in one part and one for another. Our old teacher was a elderly Dutch lady who talked barely above the volume of a mouse. Our new teacher is a crazy fifty-something who obviously enjoyed her time in the 60s. We've learned that San art (old traditional paintings found in caves in Southern Africa) are depictions of people induced by trance. She then asked/told us about various trance methods, tools, and techniques. Everyone was a little shocked until she said there is a test on Thursday. So much for the free experience of no work with only sushine, flowers, and bees for grades. We now have a fieldwork project where we examine different works of art in the Natal Museum. Fertility statues, ritual masks, and trance paintings. The library isn't extensive here and my background in art is limited so let's hope that there are some scholarly articles that I can quote!

Film Studies - Studying Hollywood films and learning new camera techniques. The class is somewhat easy until you have to work in groups. Then, after countless meanings where no one knows what to do, you end up with a completed project. This class is difficult in a way as you are tested on glossary terms and storyboarding. This class is good though because I feel like I've learned the things that my last film class teacher just assumed we knew.

Relgions in Africa - Just had a guest professor from Rice University who talked about similarites in hoodoo and voodoo in the South and traditional African religions. The discussion became very interested as we discussed their relations to Christianity and how they have basically reacted in the same exact fashion albeit a hundred years or so apart. Reminded me of my South African History professor from UCSD who said that South Africa is like the US, only half a century behind. This class is probably my most interesting class. I have an essay due soon so I hope that will go well.

Policy Issues and Community Service - My community service internship at the Salvation Army. The professor is probably the worst I've had in my life. The class has guest lecturers almost every week and we're having a class braai this Saturday. 40 hours of volunteer work, two tests, a research project, and a presentation all due very very soon.

Those are my classes. Tomorrow, I'll give you all a rundown on my trip to Swaziland, Kruger Nat'l Park, and Mozambique!

The Rainbow Nation

So, I have really exciting news! I saw my first gay couple yesterday! I have to admit - it did make me a little homesick.

Rekindling the Fire

Last week grew into an extended weekend so sorry for the lack of posts. I ended up staying in Durban until Friday and then my girlfriend and I came back to Pietermaritzburg. We had an amazing dinner on Friday night with a few of my friends. We actually had great service!!! Waters were refilled without asking, food came up within a reasonable amount of time, and our waitress came by to check up on us a few times as well. South Africa is a great country but minus this one experience, the customer service leaves something to be desired. For example, my girlfriend was told that she would get internet at her house within a week. She went back to the provider after two weeks and they told her, "well, it'll be about two weeks to six months." Yep, T.I.A. - this is Africa.

The extended weekend was really good for my relationship too. We were getting tired of the "hello, goodbye" quick visits. For school, it didn't matter since I only have 3 classes over Thursday and Friday and 2 were cancelled. In my other one, it was the last day before a week cancellation so we could work on a project. So it wasn't like I was missing much in PMB anyways. My girlfriend and I also were able to talk. Here in South Africa, you have to pay per minute since we're only here for a few months. For cell phones, in order to get a plan, you have to sign a contract for over a year. So, calling people can become costly. I have to say, talking in a relationship is probably the most important part.

On Friday, I am leaving for "holliday" with 11 of my friends (including my girlfriend) to Swaziland and Mozambique. On the way, we're going to see the St. Lucia wetlands as well as Kruger National Park. LOTS OF PICTURES! Animals, scenary, people, beaches, etc. My camera is going to be exhausted!

Crash and Burn

I think I am too old for these clubs. Why? I'd rather go to a nice jazz club, sit, eat, drink, and relax. Or even better - a dinner for two by candlelight with a nice piano. The best - a quiet midnight picnic where you can see the stars and soft beats are playing from the car stereo. All of this crazy rave music and/or hardcore screamo rock has become bitter to me. This club called, "Burn" had a few live bands and some interesting people who I appropiately titled, "high school people." It was fun but I feel like I'm too old for this.

I saw a dead body for the first time last night. I was in a cab going to the school from the bus stop when I saw a man in handcuffs being led away by the police. I saw a pole nearly about to tip over, bent in at about a 45 degree angle near the base. I then saw a man lying still, on the ground, with a plastic bag covering his head and upper body. Still. Alone. In the middle of the field. The paramedics were there but why hadn't they taken him in? Hidden the man/body? To hide the...shame? pain? grief? annoyance to everyone else's night? Why was his body displayed there for all to see, half covered with plastic? Had his entire life led up to this moment where he would lie there? All those years of childhood, all those times his mother cooked for him, all those grades he received, all those nights where he hung out with his friends, all those times he sought and questioned God, all those times he cheered for a soccer team, all those moments - had they led to this?

What do we do? You know - with our lives? "Live life to the fullest." Someone said that. "Carpe diem." Someone said that. What did they do? What do I do?

I'm going to a jazz club on Wednesday.

Rain

This week has left me in a weird mood. It could be the after effects of the illness but I just cannot seem to focus or concentrate. That and there is the feeling that I'm walking in a daze. Things are just kinda a blur right now. It's like driving in the rain while the windshield is fogged up.

The good news? It's supposed to be partly cloudy tomorrow.

The Flu

No, I'm not dying but I do have the flu. I am recovering at the moment from that and from the two tests that I took yesterday while having the flu. It was very interesting to go to the Chemist (aka pharmacist) to get some medicine. I told the lady my symptoms and was given about four different things to take. I just wanted some night-time medicine since I already had Sudafed. I ended up merely getting some lozenges and one of my friends gave me their stash of Tylenol night-time meds. I love that medicine. I slept for about ten hours during the day and still managed seven hours for the night. I feel better today so hopefully I'll be fully recovered by tomorrow.

When the Lights Go Down in the City

Last night was the scariest night thus far here in South Africa. Four of my friends and I went to the mall to do some shopping. We had walked around for a few hours, looking at the ridiculous prices of sunglasses and how cheaply made the t-shirts are, when our Tunisian friend from Germany stated that he wanted to get some groceries. We complied and accompanied him while he picked out a seemingly random assortment of goods. We were just about finished when -----

The lights went out. Pitch. Black. Then a thought occurred...it's South Africa. I instructed our friends to kneel down (just in case) and hold onto each other. About a minute later, the lights came back on and we finished shopping. We got up to the checkout lines when I realized that they had shut all of the doors leading out of the store. The manager was standing next to a few security guards with key in hand. A friend of mine then commented that she didn't remember the windows being tinted. We walked out of the grocery store to discover that the entire mall had lost power too. It was dark. Visions of "Dawn of the Dead" came to mind. We immediately made a plan to find the handheld crossbow we saw in one of the stores if zombies showed up.

Eventually, we found our way out and to the restuarant that we had planned on eating at with a few friends from school. We had a good laugh about it but we also knew that when the power goes out, crazy things CAN happen (i.e. anytime this happens in a big city in America - looting). So, we survived...except for EJ, he's got this rash and a bite mark on his arm...we've got him tied to a bed because he keeps shaking...

We Win This City

It's been hard to find a suitable church to attend here in South Africa. Even in San Diego, I had lots of problems. I think it's because I get a bitter taste in my mouth when I hear the words, "evangelism," "win converts," and "we have loud rock music." I'm weird. I like traditional hymnal music with emergent teaching. But, as one wise man said to me, "don't look for the church, be the church." I would like to show people love and compassion and let that be a testimony. Problem is - that's really really hard to do. I suppose that's why it's easier to hand out flyers that say, "We win this city...disciple the nations" or "harvest the fields."

I had a burrito on Sunday. Beef in a tortilla. Guacamole and sour cream in a cup on the side. "Salsa" on the outside of the tortilla. NO beans, NO rice, NO lettuce...but I still enjoyed it :-)

Ode to Mexico

I miss the culture, people, and cuisine of Mexico. I would love to eat a carne asada burrito right now. Even Taco Bell would suffice. I miss Mexicans too. I miss hearing about them on the news. I miss speaking Spanish to them which illicits various reactions. I miss their tortilla chips, sobreros, and dance music which blasts from the park across the street. FIESTA! I miss that word. When I get back, a fiesta is in order.

The Weekend

It was one random and crazy weekend. Friday night, I hung out with my friends as we had a little apartment party. We then proceeded to a bar and then to a club to go dancing. My favorite part of the night was the dancing - my friends won't stop quoting me ("all I want to do is dance!").

On Saturday, I visited the Salvation Army again. This time, I played with the younger boys and girls out in the yard. My co-interns and I taught them how to play such games like: "Steal the Bacon," "Freeze Tag," and "Eight" (an English rendition of "Ocho"). I just now realized that we can still teach them "Red Light, Green Light." We don't know who is and isn't HIV/AIDS positive so we have to be on alert for any blood. It definitely puts you on edge at first, but you just have to release yourself of that fear and love these children. Most of the boys really enjoyed hanging out with me because the orphanage is run by older women. These boys have probably never had an older male figure in their lives. That's what I will try to be for them for just a few precious hours each week. Hopefully, they'll get someone new when I leave. Someone constant.

Sunday morning, I decided that I was going to go to Durban for the day. I made my way to my girlfriend's house where we ate breakfast in the sun, went for a walk, and watched soccer/football with her roommates. It turned out to be a very pleasant day and one of my favorites so far this trip. Also, my girlfriend and I have decided to become Liverpool fans.

This morning, I took the bus back to PMB, where I sat next to a young actress from Soweto. We talked about how formulaic Hollywood has become and how striking it is when it deviates. We also talked about her past television projects as well as her excitement for her role in an upcoming American mini-series set in Sierre Leone. Politics, education, HIV/AIDS, religion, and healthy foods - bad traffic allowed me to gain a local perspective on all of these things. I was not aware of this but apparently the South Africans pay for the HIV/AIDS treatment with their tax money. Westernized churches have get-togethers during the week where they sacrifice animals to their ancestors. And - there is actually someone in South Africa who does not eat chicken. Amazing.

An amazing weekend. I am so much more relaxed now and I feel a whole lot better!

It's Been a While...

Sorry about the long gap inbetween posts. During the week, there's usually not too much to talk about since it's just school and finding things to eat before falling asleep. Last night, my friends and I went out to a dance club called "Crowded House," which turned out to be a lot of fun. You know me and my dance moves :-)

I'm going to the Salvation Army to volunteer today for my community service internship. I visited it on Thursday and had a small orientation as well as a trip around the orphanage. The kids are really nice and well-behaved. They were having dinner and an eleven year old boy stated that he was, "just enjoying this delicious food!" I even got to meet the new members of the orphanage, two five month old twin girls. I think today I'm going to play some soccer/football with the older boys.

Life has gotten better here. I'm enjoying myself more and I'm not paranoid every time I leave the university. I know the area more and that helps in determining how I feel about what I do.

I'm jealous of my girlfriend right now. She's surfing in the Indian Ocean! That's okay. Maybe she'll take me to the beach this weekend!

Pictures!

Pictures from SOUTH AFRICA!

Also, the long anticipated Zulu Dancing PICTURES!

Here's another link to see the photos. YAY!

A Different Kind of Illness

This weekend, I decided it was time to splurge. There comes a point where you just want good food, good sleep, and good service. The "First World" syndrome: the desire to have things like they are in a First World country. I went to some very nice restaurants, found a nice hotel, and was toured around the countryside by that hotel's hostess. My girlfriend came up for the weekend so it worked out to be a nice and romantic time (we figured the hotel was a good compromise between one of us sleeping on the floor and both of us sleeping on a twin bed...don't think the parents would've liked that). We also went to a game reserve where we got to see giraffes, water buffalo, antelope, and hippos. I also went shopping and got myself a nice new sweatshirt.

I really have no idea what I am going to do for the next couple of weeks. My girlfriend and I have decided that we are going to have some time apart for a while so now, all of my plans are placed on hold. I'll have to come up with some new ones and see what people around here are doing.

The local taxi services are having some trouble along racial lines. One company split itself up into two groups, one for African drivers and another for Indian drivers. The owner is now giving the Indians less hours and less jobs. The Indian drivers aren't too happy about that and there is some conflict growing between the two racial groups within other taxi companies as well.

In other local news, there was an article today by a man who journeyed with several Zimbabweans who were smuggling food across the border from South Africa into Zimbabwe. Apparently, the prices in Zim are inflating and there is not enough food for everyone. Smuggling is now a common occurrence and there are approximately 7,000 people crossing the border every day.

This morning, I had eggs, sausage, ham, and toast. This morning, someone in Zimbabwe was arrested. He was hungry. You can blame whoever you want, I still feel sick.

A Cold Day

Today has been the coldest day in South Africa thus far. Add in rain and wind and there suddenly is nothing to write about because you have retreated to classrooms and the computer lab to stay warm and dry all day. I managed to set up a pretty nice weekend for when my girlfriend comes tomorrow. Her Friday classes were cancelled (Thursday being a holiday) and so she has decided to stay in Pietermaritzburg until Sunday. I'm hoping to get in touch with a game reserve so we can do that on Saturday. Yay for animals!

The social culture here is definitely interesting. I don't think I've ever been more aware of my racial identity before. You are treated differently by different races based on your skin color. While I was talking with my friend from Rutgers (who would be titled a "coloured" here), he received very intense stares from some of the blacks walking by and I got the same treatment by some whites. I was talking with one of the German girls who stated that she said "hello" to one of the black girls and the girl seriously did not know what to make of it. Of course, not everyone is like this and many people are indeed friendly. It is just very interesting to experience this kind of culture shock on a daily basis.

Determination

When I decided to go to South Africa to study, there was one course that I was extremely excited and motivated to take: Religions in Africa. I contacted the professor to determine where and when this course was. He replied that there would be a meeting where we would decide on a time that was suitable for everyone in the class. After three such meetings where the professor didn't show up, I decided that as soon as I found him, I would not leave his presence until a time and date was established. It worked. He stated that the faculty was debating over whether or not the class was going to happen since there were very few students in it. He asked if I really wanted to take the class and I said that I did. I then pulled out my timetable and we decided on a time and place - his office, the only place I've ever found him. Finally. Finally, all four of my classes are taken care of.

Art History. Screen Studies. Policy Issues and Community Service. Religions in Africa.

I also have my community service internship worked out. I'm going to be volunteering at a Salvation Army children's home. This home is an orphanage for abused and HIV/AIDS positive children. It should be a humbling and challenging experience.

I went to Durban this weekend. It took 3 combis, 2 hours, and 45 rand to get there. The problem was that it wasn't exactly the safest trip. On the way home, I took a bus (like Greyhound and as adequate) which was 50 rand and much safer. My girlfriend is doing well. Her place is nice and very secure. Her roommates are very friendly and easy-going. I think she is going to do well with her living arrangements.

We went out Friday night to a club called "80's." It wasn't the best club and we probably won't go back but it was fun nevertheless. Don't worry, it was definitely not Tijuana dancing (which is gross and makes you wonder about the end of mankind). My girlfriend and I avoided the drunk stage of alcohol (I avoided alcohol altogether...I still haven't found something I like, which is probably a good thing considering my addictive personality) and we also avoided getting shot by drug dealers. Those guys are everywhere. When the taxi stops, dealers come up to the window and ask if you want some. Find a person selling metallic flowers at 4am, you find that's not all he's selling. By the way, they all have guns. It's ridiculous and scary and I don't know why people chance it but they do. However, it is not the only thing that is in abundance in South Africa.

Chicken is the staple food of South Africa. You have it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Grease and chicken. And rice. It's very cheap so that's why a lot of people eat it. I just wish there was a little more variety. Where's the steak?

There is a holiday on Thursday. National Women's Day. My girlfriend is going to see if she can come up on Wednesday and visit me. This weekend, we are thinking about going to a game reserve. I am going to work on getting pictures uploaded this week so keep an eye out for that.

P.S. I love samosas.

Redemption

South Africa always seems to know how to redeem itself.

I live in a two-story building that holds seven rooms on each floor. The building is painted white with green outlines around the windows and edges. Inside, the kitchen holds pink cabinetware, a refridgerator, a microwave, and a toaster. The living room on the opposite side has three sofas which display a grotesque print of green with black and lime stripes. There are two bathrooms, each with a toilet and a shower. The tiles are blue until you reach the shower, which has chocolate tiles with white lining. Interior decorating...not this university's finest. But it suffices. The water is always really hot and the toilets flush (still can't tell which way the water is spinning because it just shoots down like on an airplane). My room is on the first floor and has a small twin-sized bed (arguably smaller) with a desk, chair, bookcase, sink, and window (with bars). It is cozy and comfortable; nothing too flashy.

Last night, my room was invaded by a cacophony of sounds from the room next door. I thought I had traveled several thousand miles to avoid the booming of bass blasting from a subwoofer. I was wrong. Until 3am, I stared blankly at the ceiling, pondering when the party would end and when I could begin my sleep. I had approached the group several times by that point and quietly told myself that if it happened another night, I would let the respective housing representives know.

This morning, I woke up in a sour mood. Understandably so. I poured myself some breakfast, glanced at my cell phone to check the time and said good morning to the housekeeper. Summoning some courage because I knew I had one clean pair of underwear, I asked the housekeeper where the laundry room was. She said, "I'll do it for you." Shocked and slightly surprised, I initially declined. She insisted and I decided that South Africa had redeemed itself. Later on, she ironed my clothes and I compensated her geniality with a tip. Today was a good day.

The Night

It has gotten better today. I went out on a little adventure with a few of my friends from Rutgers. We went over the mall across town at around 4pm. Taking a combi (comb-BEE), which is basically a 12 passenger van that acts like a bus, from our local shopping center to a transfer station, techno music thudded in our ears. At the transfer station, there were lots of people and lots of combis. We finally found the right one to get us to the mall and paid our fare. Once at the mall, we walked around for a bit, noticing how peaceful it was to browse without flashing lights, bright colors, and large fonts glaring at you from every direction. I even got to see those "cute" couples who walk around the mall hand-in-hand who were probably in their freshman year of high school. Ah yes, the familiarity of home.

South Africa has a lot of those moments. Moments that are distinctly South African but have obvious Americanizations. This occurs when you go to the grocery store, walk down a particular path in the middle of school, or when you attend a nice restaurant. It is really quite interesting.

Then - it was night.

Oh yes.

Night.

We took the combi back to the transfer station. And...as we were driving...it was a different city. Trash covered the streets. People were lined up outside soup kitchens that I didn't remember seeing before. There were barrels of fire on every block. Mattresses were lined up on the pavement. The sun had just set and there was just an extraordinary difference in a matter of minutes. The three Rutgers kids I was with were obviously American if you looked hard but they are African-American. They can blend for a few golden moments. Me, on the other hand, am quite white. And tall. Suffice to say, I was pretty on edge. We formed a small ball and walked confidently with a purpose. Did we know where we had to catch the next combi? Hmmmm...

Well, we found a nice looking lady who pointed us in the direction of our desired combi. We got in, paid our 4 rand (about 75 cents) and left. It was about a half hour after sunset but wow, what a change.

So...the lesson of the day is to plan for an early departure. Find good directions and walk confidently. I'm not going to chance the city night for a while.

One of Those Days...

Deep post ahead. Very personal. Please be respectful and know that I just need to get this off my chest. More information of my journey in South Africa later; this is what is happening with the introspective journey of my heart.

It's been one of those days where you wake up and you just know it's going to be a bad one. You are in a bad mood and you are tired and stressed and you write run-on sentences. South Africa is great and the people are nice. I love it here. It is fun and exciting and challenging. However, today is just one of those days where you realize that you have four months left and you really miss home. Where you just want to drive twenty minutes and hang out with friends and family for the day and then be able to come back. Today is the day where you start to ponder what's important in life and what do you need to change.

I have been in a relationship with a girl for over a year and a half. We have grown tremendously close since our first date and people have seen this and know that we are. We are close. Very. We help each other deal with issues and problems as well as provide solid entertainment to make each other feel better. She's my companion and my friend. I can depend on her and I have placed a lot of trust in her. Throughout our relationship, we have been working on not just making room for God but letting Him be at the center of it. Which has been and is very difficult to do. I don't think we have that down yet. But we're trying. We haven't had the perfect relationship. I haven't been the best boyfriend. We're not along for the ride and just superficially saying, "I love you." When I say it and when she says it, we mean it. We're trying. That's the best we can do. I'm glad that people talk about us and have been concerned about us when it's been rough. We have a lot of good friends. Things are going really well for us. We are making steps everyday. I am happy with where our relationship is going and I hope you are too.

There are going to be a lot of changes in the next few years. I have to find a place to stay in the winter, learn to pay rent and how to use a credit card, decide what kind of job I want after college and what are the next steps with my relationships. These are all things I'm praying about and giving up to above. God is giving me strength and courage. It may not come in large doses, but it's there and it's ever-present. I just have to trust in Him. I haven't really had the easiest walk with God lately and I need to fix it. I need to fix it before I move forward with anything else.

I know some of you who are reading this aren't religious and I'm sorry if this was weird or if it didn't make sense to you. This is my faith and you have to accept that it is a part of me. I hope you have been able to see this side of me through my actions and words. If you haven't, then I sincerely apologize. This faith is not easy

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I'll give you more on South Africa tomorrow. As I said before, this is just something I needed to get off my chest so you know where I am in my spiritual and mental journey. I figure this way, I can look back when I am done with my trip and see how far I've gotten. I'm glad I was able to open up with all of you. It has been a while and I need your support. Thank you.

A Snail's Pace

This place moves as fast its internet connection: slow. I woke up this morning with two scheduled classes. I woke up with one class that didn't have a time or place. It took me about an hour to find someone for each department for each class. For some buildings, it was hard enough finding the right door to go in (one said, "try side door" while another said, "go in through main entrance). I finally attended an art history class, taught by an elderly woman who speaks softly and likes the lecture hall dimmed to a cave-like atmosphere. I think it will be my favorite class.

Organization and efficiency are definetly not South Africa's strong points. People litter on the streets to give others jobs to do. To register for a class, you have to get approved by the administration, travel to the head of the department's office for a signature, ask for UC approval, and then back to the administration where they review and ultimately tell you whether or not you can take that class. Housekeeping shows up in your apartment at 7am. They make toast. They sit on the couch. They talk. They will clean windows today but it is no big hurry. This is South Africa. You learn patience. You learn to let things happen.

It has been fun trying to figure out what to do and where to go. I know that I will figure everything out and that it will all work.

I just found out that my girlfriend is registering right now.

Yep. It all works out.

So Much to Say!

Yesterday was definetly my best day in South Africa since I have been here. The first couple of days were a blur because I was stressed out (mainly for my girlfriend's situation, who is going to find housing on Wed. and hopefully get registered for classes on Monday) and hadn't really made any friends yet. But yesterday, I went on a tour of Pietermaritzburg (PMB) and got to see the jail where Gandhi was imprisoned, the city centre, and a Zulu village. All of this was done on a tour with all of the international kids. There are a lot of people from Germany and I've met some others from Canada, Norway, Singapore, and Zimbabwe. I'm really close with the others from the UC system and Rutgers since we have the same advisor. Our advisor took us out to dinner two nights ago and is taking us on a trip today.

Btw, I got to dance with the Zulus yesterday! I have some really good pictures that I hope I can share with you all soon. We ate goat meat (really good!!!) on the bus along with some crazy gooey bread which I appropiately titled, "Jello Bread."

For the remainder of today, I'm going to go get some groceries and other necessities and hope that I can find my classes tomorrow. Half of them don't have a lecture hall yet and one of them, I don't even know what time it is at. But that is pretty much how it is for everyone. I'm actually one of the lucky ones who has four classes approved. Many only have one or two classes and are going to have some extra work this week. Hey, it's Africa. This is how it goes. You learn to live with it and just be patient. God knows my girlfriend has. If it wasn't for her really close group of friends she's made and the fact that she's in a very nice and safe area, I would be pulling my hair out. I talked to her on the phone last night (we finally got our phones working) and she is having a good time regardless of all the difficulties. I'm probably going to take a trip to see her this weekend if her housing is all sorted out.

Well, this semester promises to be an interesting and challenging experience. I'm not even happy with this post because I feel as though I've left so much out. I'll just let you all know that I am having a good time despite missing you all terribly.

I will give you an update on my classes this week and let you know what school is like. I will also give you an idea of what my housing is like and what is in the surrounding area.

Cold Yet Safe

Hello everyone! I made it to South Africa without too much trouble. Two very long 9hr flights have left me in the clouds...jet lag is not fun! Anyways, I have a decent room which has a bed, sink, lots of storage space, a desk, a chair, and a window. It is very very cold here at night! Southern hemisphere = winter! Luckily, I brought a few long sleeve shirts. It actually gets pretty warm during the mid portion of the day so it's very difficult to plan what to wear.

I did get in touch with my girlfriend and her housing situation is kind of weird right now. She's staying at a house with a bunch of international students because the on-campus housing isn't open/available yet. They told her good things today and she was able to register for classes. I also registered for classes. Lots of red tape and roundabouts and missing information. Welcome to Africa. Everything has slowed down considerably. Which is nice. But when you want to add classes and it takes a few hours, you miss the fast-pace of America.

I am getting along with the international kids (mainly the 3 from California). It's a fun group and we're going out to dinner tonight. We have a bus tour around Pietermaritzburg tomorrow and then a trip to a Zulu cultural village on Sunday. Classes start Monday and I just realized that I need to go to the store to get some paper/pencil/etc.

Anyways, that's what has happened so far. Thank you for your prayers and I shall update you all soon!

Here I Go!

So I have just a few days before I leave for South Africa. Tuesday, I will be traveling for about 2 days. OH boy...I just hope that the leg room is adequate. Anyways, when I get to South Africa, I will be meeting with an advisor and getting an orientation about the way school and society is run. After that, I get to see how it really is.

There is a computer lab on campus so I hope that I will be able to access this website from there. I'm almost 99% positive that this will work.

I have one big favor for everyone that is reading this. I am really excited to go but I have one major worry: safety. I have a feeling of what to expect and it's not all that bright. So I hope the country is different from what I am anticipating because I really do not want to get mugged, shot, or kidnapped. So, with a prayer, a thought, a blessing, etc., please ask for safety.
(Recent world events have not made this trip any less foreboding)

Now, I really am excited to go! It'll be life-changing and different and eye-opening. I just found out about this class that combines some poli sci with community service. I'm going to try to get into that class because it would be really fun to travel to all these different parts of the Natal region to help out people. The whole meeting people and connecting with them is probably my number one goal. I don't usually step outside of my shell until I get to know people so that will definitely be a challenge.

Last but certainly not least, my girlfriend is also going to South Africa. She's going to a school about forty-five minutes away so she and I will be making frequent visits to each other. I'll keep you posted about her experiences as well (I'm sure her mom would like that very much!).

So, I bid you all adieu. I will be talking to you all soon. Please bookmark this page and comment so I can get a little slice of home when I go online. Peace out!

The First Post

Hello. I am Josh. I am traveling to South Africa at the end of July until the very beginning of December. This blog will be a way for me to share my experience with you - the reader. I hope you enjoy it and I'll try to update it a few times a week.