South Africans - Don't Panic!

In the midst of political uncertainty, load-shedding and a high crime rate, the ordinary South African may have been tempted to give up all hope in the summer of 2008. You may have found it difficult to overcome an atmosphere of negativity and considered packing your bags in search of “greener pastures” or found yourself even more frustrated upon the realisation that you cannot afford to do so financially. If you have felt this way at any stage or still do, this book is the perfect read for you. Take a deep breath, relax and embrace the abundant beauties of our lovely home.

The book centres from an inspirational email that Alan Knott – Craig, the MD or iBurst, wrote to his staff about turning 2008 into a year of opportunity. The email sparked a viral wave across the internet, gained support from hundreds of inspired South Africans and caught the attention of the media, thus leading to its publication. Craig points out that South Africa is a land of opportunity and that history shows us that crisis situations have occurred before and will continue to do so. However, the crisis is always followed by an economic boom. So, instead of worrying about it, we should prepare ourselves for the next big wave of prosperity. Contributors to the book add to Craig's message with supportive feedback and reasons why they love living in South Africa. They include children, South African citizens abroad and those still living here, as well as popular television icons such as Noeleen Moholowana – Sangqu, 3Talk host on SABC 3. The book places together the various views of these individuals for a common purpose – to expose the good that is too often silenced by the echo of despondency that spreads through the media and our repeated complaints.

South Africans have survived far worse than what now seems like a tragedy. We made it through Apartheid into the new era without a civil war and managed to maintain peace amongst ourselves. Our economy remains the strongest on the continent and a major player in world markets. One can complain about the unequal wealth distribution, dividing our country into a first and third world community. However, on the reverse side, this marks an opportunity. Millions of people are ready and eager to create wealth and be provided with the goods and services they require. The divide in the social order is not an indicator of our failure as a nation but of the unrealised potential for greatness that we still possess.

The grass is not always greener on the other side. Many a South African realises this only after settling abroad. Crime, poverty and political struggle are not an epidemic unique to our country but they are problems in every nation. It does not take long to see the doom and gloom of any place, especially if you are searching for it. One can mention the “braaivleis, biltong, rugby, sunny skies and friendly smiles” but that is the least of what a South African emigrant longs for. Family, friends and shared experiences are left behind, which can create a void in one's being. Home is where the heart is so one can imagine how it feels to leave it behind. Although technology has come far to help us communicate with loved ones who are far away, it is unlikely that even a daily routine of skype conversations can ever replace physical human contact. We miss out on each other's lives and slowly learn to adjust and move on.

Another gap is created when parents decide to move their young children overseas in order to give them “a better life”. Children are raised in a different society and become a member of that world. They are citizens of one place and will not understand what it means to be a South African, making it more difficult to relate to their parents. They will not know their cousins and grandparents based on one or two annual trips to Africa. So, slowly the South African identity disappears.

Royalties from the book are donated to the Tomorrow Trust, an organisation which helps orphaned and vulnerable children through education. So, you can make your own small contribution. The book costs less than fifty rands and in ninety-six quick pages is a breeze to read. It's a motivating work and perhaps you will take from it a greater understanding that will spark more love for your wonderful country. It's time we stopped complaining and started finding ways to contribute to the unique wonders that we share. Don't let bad energy contaminate your spirit. Don't panic. Keep your head to the sky and prove that you are proudly South African.

© Maja Dezulovic 2009