Chilz of joy

On Sunday, 18 July, I arrived at the airport to get onto my flight back home. With a lump in my throat I said goodbye to the host families and friend that I can come to love. Not so eager to go home anymore I thought to myself, ” I really wish I could stay for another week or so… I really do.” but once I was on the flight and it became a reality that I was going to see the soil that made me who I am I was drowning in excitement.

Off we went on our 18 hour journey back to South Africa. While chatting and reminiscing with my friends I kept thinking about home and what awaited me back home. I thought about how much I had missed pap, gravy and home made stew; how I don’t want to see a slice of pizza or a REALLY BIG burger for a while. I thought about the children who played on the street so joyfully while I sat with friends on my granny’s stoop and spoke about how great life is. I thought about going to lectures in the winter rain and taking walks around this beautiful town, Stellenbosch. So many things I missed about home that just makes South Africa a part of  my heart.

We landed in Johannesburg and waiting for me was my mother with a warm arms and her famous “I missed you” smile. Just seeing her face made me glow like never before. Shortly after briefing my mother of all the happenings in the passed five weeks I got onto the flight to Cape Town. When walking out of Cape Town International Airport I was hugged by the cold breeze. I took a deep breath and smiled; I knew I was home and that is where my heart is. I really missed the little things about this country and I’m glad we got  the chance to show the world what we are capable of.

South Africa is me and I am my country. I’m glad to be back.