Cape Town – what an old lady, and you know, a lady will be conquered at times. When I arrived in Cape Town the first time, the impressions were quite diverse: a city in South Africa, looking more European than African, a feel of Mediterranean Sea, a weather which can unleashes storms we have only heard of in Germany, friendly people of all colours and traditions, a landscape surrounding Cape Town which is simply out of this world and – stunning – Table Mountain.
A magic place, not Africa, not South Africa – well, Cape Town, unique in many ways. After almost 13 years living in this marvellous city it is not only the mother city of South Africa, but also my mother city. It feels like I have been born here, I never had such a feeling of belonging and when I am on travel, i sometimes cannot wait until I see the shape of this magic mountain – then I forget for moments of the Capetonian way of working, which can drive me still nuts, I forget about crime and the lack of respect of life in many criminal cases.. I just want to be “home“.
Cape Town gave me a lot I had not bargained for.. a meaning in life, meaningful work, lots of fun and life happiness, encounter with great people, some great friends and tons of good experiences.
Still being on holidays I can feel this longing coming again.. the fresh breeze when leaving the airplane (after of course a while waiting for the being able to leave the plan ..eh.. they forgot that we arrive.. 🙂 – sorry ladies and gentlemen, the buses will be here soon… 🙂 )
To become a real Cape Townian there are at least two requirements: being able to say “shame” in a diversity which is unique in the world and to look as you can’t believe what you just heard… and obviously: always to be a bit late. And last not least to be convinced that when I close my eyes, nobody indeed can see me..
Cape Town, soon back again…
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God, AIDS, Africa & HOPE 