MUD4's First Retreat

During the last week in November myself and the rest of the South African YAGM’s got together for our first retreat. I remember leaving for Kimberley in the beginning of September thinking that three months seemed like a long time before we would all be back together. Time keeps on going pretty fast.

We all met back in Pietermaritzburg, home of our country coordinators Brian and Kristen. We spent our first few days here and celebrated Thanksgiving. Whoa- considering we’re in South Africa celebrating an American holiday it was an amazing Thanksgiving. Kristen cooked a delicious turkey, homemade stuffing, corn, mashed potatoes and pie. The rest of us also brought our contributions, which we prepared at the backpackers. We had way too much. Apart from the food, I also enjoyed a true feeling of thanksgiving. I realized how thankful I am for this group of people I have here in SA, as well as at home. During these first few days we really got into sharing what we’ve all been up to, what our struggles have been and how we may work on coping with these difficulties.

After a few nights we moved to a different backpackers located near the South African- Lesotho boarder. This place was pretty dope. Pool, hot tub, bar, fire pit, mini rick wall included. The first day we went on a hike lead by Brian through the Drakensburg Mountains. These mountains were second in the running for the filming of the Lord of the Rings movies. Stunning.

The following day we had the privilege to travel into Lesotho. Also stunning. Lesotho is basically an island in the middle of South Africa and is the third poorest country in the world. After passing through boarder control, we enjoyed the day learning about Lesotho’s history and about its people. We walked up to a beautiful look out point, saw old paintings on the side of cliff walls, tried some traditional beer in a small room completely packed with our group and village members, and met a Sangoma (traditional herbal doctor).

Finally, on our last day together we attended the “We Have Faith” rally in Durban for COP 17- Climate Justice. It was really a privilege to be there, to hear from important leaders about the importance of climate justice, and to see how this project is moving forward in South Africa. Among many speakers, Desmond Tutu was there. I didn’t know much about him before coming here, but this man is an incredible and inspirational religious leader. Huge honor to hear him speak.

We were only together for five days but were able to do a lot of great things. This year during Thanksgiving week I was reminded about everything I have to be thankful for. I was able to reconnect with my friends who informed me about issues and joys happening in their part of SA, I was able to hike and view the amazing beauty of this country and in Lesotho, and I was able to take part in a rally not only important for South Africans but for all of us.

Give Thanks.