February 23, 2012

We come to the close of our second day in Cape Town and continue to walk the thin line between hope and despair. Our family and friends in South Africa continue to teach us much about their ability to hope while living in an environment with so few resources. The effects of apartheid continue to have their effect.

From the words of Carter Woodson's What About the Front Door?, "If you can control a man's thinking you do not have to worry about his action. When you determine what man shall think, you do not have to concern yourself about what he will do. If you make a man feel that he is inferior, you do not have to compel him to accept an inferior status, for he will seek it himself. If you make a man think that he is justly an outcast, you do not have to order him to the back door. He will go without being told; and if there is no back door, his very nature will demand one."

A real sign of hope in the township of Guguletu, is the Rainbow school, an after school tutoring program. The volunteer teachers continue to provide guidance and support, as well as a meal for the children of this community. Arm In Arm In Africa has supported this program for many years. The school provides the children with the realization that education is the key to discover the front door.

Jim Cassidy and Pat Murphy met with a group of young adults that presented a 5 year business plan developing a new musical enterprise. AIAIA looks forward to supporting this new venture.

Peace and blessings to you.