As a third generation South African, I am excited about the development of our nation, the oneness I feel with so many people and the growth into a truly representative people. However, as we sit in 21st century, the growth pains of change have begun to turn into the labour of frustration as it becomes more and more difficult to do business; our once relatively sound infrastructure is deteriorating and politics seem to be more important that actually living it out together in this beautiful vibrant land. Yes, and living it equally as it should be.
History, good or bad, can’t be erased
Every nation has history that is disturbing, sad, unfair, ugly and devastating. The greatness or smallness of our past cannot be wiped away by the name change of a street, or removal from the school history books, in fact, removal of all previous history deprives our future generations of a full picture of the struggles, victories and people from which they are birthed. Working with many people much younger than me, I am astounded at how little they know of the world, the histories of other nations, and especially the tapestry of myriads of colours that has formed their own country.
The whole picture
I would advocate schools where historical documentaries are shown regularly to all school children; where it is honest history with no agenda, no bias, but purely the truth of the decisions, good and bad that people in power have made. A picture of how people lived, the challenges faced, the wars that were won and lost, the atrocities, the niceties and the culture that has evolved. This may help to ensure that our future generations have a broad, all encompassing picture of the world in which we live.
I remember asking my dad once why we don’t pay for our school books, while the poorer people have to pay. It saddens me that I do not have any recollection of a response that was satisfying other than a deep sigh followed by – “there is a lot of unfairness in our country, my darling”. I knew my dad was liberal, but I did not have a clue what that meant. Was I so uninformed, so ignorant, so comfortable with the status quo? How would I cope as my world changed?
As we evolve technologically where almost anything can be “googled” or found somewhere in cyberspace, how much are we imparting to our children treasures of a lasting value, not only in terms of their eternal destination, but genuine sound input that will enable them to survive, thrive and contribute in a meaningful way to the world in which they live.
Value statements
Most organisations I work in have proudly displayed “value statements” on their walls. These describe the desired culture of thinking and behaviour in world class companies. Sadly, values on the wall that are not written in the heart cannot produce the anticipated fruit or grow the leaders expected to model them.
At the beginning of each New Year, ask yourself some empowering questions about the words, actions and experiences we are investing in our children, our friends, our communities and our world. Actually don’t wait for the beginning of a new year, these questions can be asked throughout the year and will help to keep us on track and accountable.