"When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation.
We did so knowing that the struggles against the injustice and inequities of the past are part of our national identity; they are part of our culture. We knew that, if indeed our nation has to rise like the proverbial phoenix from the ashes of division and conflict, we had to acknowledge those whose selfless efforts and talents were dedicated to this goal of non-racial democracy."
You know , in a way, who we are and who we choose to be as a nation is very much a product of our collective heritage. Because of our history and the lessons drawn from it, we have chosen to gather strength in our diversity and not to regard or use it as a divisive tool. That choice makes it possible for us today to proudly speak of "unity in diversity".
South Africa 's successful transformation from a pariah state to a stable and prosperous democracy, has led to South Africa to being respected and revered internationally for its most progressive constitution
Our ability to turn a tragic situation into a lesson for the world - our transition to a democratic state was expected to be marred by violence and retribution, but instead it was an astounding lesson in reconciliation
Our underlying wealth and natural assets and the talent of all South Africans - the world comes to South Africa to see its beautiful skies and beaches, Table Mountain and the game reserves, which always fulfil their expectations.
However, what amazes and surprises visitors is that they fall in love with the warmth and friendliness of our people, which always entices them to come back for more South African smiles and caring attitudes.
South African heritage - definitely as diverse, inspirational and worthy of pride as South Africa herself.
It's also National Braai Day...so we are going to a "braaivleis" party......
Family and friends converge on a picnic spot or someone's home (normally the garden or verandah) with their own meat, salad, or side dish in hand.......very similar to an American barbeque:-)
Meats are the star of the South African braai. They typically include boerewors, sosaties, kebabs, marinated chicken, pork and lamb chops, steaks, sausages of different flavors and thickness, and possibly even a rack or two of spareribs. Fish and Rock Lobster commonly called "crayfish" or kreef in Afrikaans, are also popular in coastal areas.
The other main part of the meal is pap (meaning porridge), actually a thickened porridge, or the krummelpap ("crumb porridge"), traditionally eaten with the meat. Made from finely ground corn/maize (similar to polenta), it is a staple of local African communities and may be eaten with a tomato and onion sauce,monkeygland sauce or the more spicy chakalaka at a braai.
Congratulations to all postcrossers for reaching the 3 million mlestone (http://www.postcrossing.com/blog/2009/09/24/one-two-three-3-million-postcrossing-postcards)....
We LOVE postcrossing....and South Africa of course!!
Durban Time
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