Youth Day

30 years ago the Black youth of South Africa had to fight for schooling in English rather than Afrikaans...on June 16th, 1976 they marched for the freedom of education, marched for the right to understand their text books, marched against the oppression of the Apartheid regime...

Children were killed during this protest, actually murdered for using their voices and now we remember this day, remember those children who fought and died to gain freedom for the future of the black youth of South Africa.

The youth of Masoyi chose to celebrate this day rather than mourn. We met this morning and partied with dancing and singing. The children here are so strong, so talented, and full of potential. Who is going to give them a chance? Who is going to give them what they need to actually turn that potential into something tangible? This is not a hopeless cause, not by any means, but we need people who are willing to come and love. Oh yes, we need money, of course, nothing on earth is free...but what is most important is that touch, that word that says, you are great, you can do it, and you can be somebody...here, let me show you how.

I am ever amazed by the heart in the community and challenged to be more, to live life with passion, to make it worth the time I've been given. I love the children here and my passion is renewed when I spend time with them. I sat and listened to the speakers and held two children on my lap. They didn't know me before I arrived, but they know me now. They need love, and accept it from those who are willing to give it. I love giving it! What a treasure it is to give something as simple as a hug or a lap, even a gentle touch on the head, to someone who truly desires it!

Life is rich if you will let it be!