Let's just let the raging idealist inside come out for a moment to pose a question...
If everyone hates SA, if everyone gives up on it....what happens next? Do you just leave it to rot?
If all the educated people of SA are fleeing to the Western world...how are things ever going to get better?
I understand that one would rather not risk their life by commiting themselves to a place where they don't even feel wanted...but I just so often think about the future of a place like this and wonder what's going to happen to it.
I've heard the stats, and I don't doubt or deny them...in fact, speaking to my boyfriend earlier I asked how his day went, "it was great" he said...."except for the part where I had to watch a gang of men violently beat an individual on the streets"...."did you call the police?" I replied.....he just laughed.
Ok, so I get it, SA is a mess with crime. But as long as SA continues the phenomenon often referred to as "brain drain" what will happen next? How will the place ever improve?....This is a genuine question and thought. I'm not in any way saying everyone should go risk their families and lives just to contribute to a society that doesn't even want them...but what do you honestly think is in store for a place like SA? Especially with a man like Jacob Zuma who is presumed to take presidency in 2009?
Europe wasn't always so democratic, people had to fight for their country and many often died...unfortunatley they couldn't just move somewhere safer.
So if we reach beyond the stats and reality of crime in SA and look at a long term perscription, what should be proposed?
4 comments:
Hi there Maple
I found you blog by accident and then read your posts with interest. I won't judge you or your decision, and i agree with both the positive and negative views. I a 23 year old South African girl currently living in London, i plan on moving back to Joburg in June to be with my boyfriend. I think it will be very hard to go back home. Perhaps i can help show you around, in return, perhaps you can help me see the positive about SA that i have lost, due to fear and being so disheartend. Though the one blogger's posts are harsh- the advice given in it is realistic and very neccessary so please do take it. Good luck and if i can help in any way, let me know.
Much Love, Kate
Thanks a lot Kate, thanks for the positive feedback and keep in touch. That would be nice to have someone to know in SA. Did you go to school there? If so where a bouts?
Amen! This is what I have been trying to talk to many friends and family alike about for some time now.
Everyone very quickly forgets that the past regime in this country also denied the majority of the population the life's basics and yet they didnt have the option to flee. They had to stay and concentrate their efforts on the change.
True, crime was not ever part of the bargain and it is horrendous, but does it get any better with every person that chooses to flee. I say stay...you have a voice, you are not disenfranchised...it is up to YOU!
Totally agree with your post.
It might sound ironic since we are considering going to work in Ireland for a few years. But we feel a call there and belief we will return to SA richer with more to give.
I have family and friends in JHB I could put you into contact with if you want - just send me an e-mail.
coetsersATgmail.com
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