Fear me, because I’m standing up for my country and her people. Fear me because I rage against the darkness. Fear me because I’m one of many voices, one of many sparks that will set the pulse of Africa alight.
South Africa – When you think about what is going on in SA, it is easy to get lost in negativity. The news reminds us daily that our crime is exceptionally high, that the economy is on the brink of breaking, unemployment stats are at an all-time high, corruption is rife, and the average South African is feeling the pressure. It’s becoming increasingly challenging to be optimistic about the future of our country.
And last week was no different but somehow worse.
Parts of Johannesburg were on fire, women were raped, violently beaten and murdered & numerous children were kidnapped. But that was just Monday.
A Good Things Guy reader who wishes to remain anonymous wrote an open letter to South Africa, read the full message below:
Hear me, South Africa,
23 years have past. The memories plague me as South Africa burns. The single stupid decision that changed my fate. I’ve been in therapy for 23 years. I’m stronger now. I’ve forgiven myself. But that doesn’t make it easier. It doesn’t make it less dark. How many of these girls made a similar decision, how many girls trusted the wrong man, got brainwashed into destruction. How many won’t get to go home?
I cry for the loss of innocence, I cry because I know the pain, I know how hard the road to recovery is, and that is only if you return alive. I cry because of how lucky I am to be able to write these words. This is the moment where I realised I am not alone. And that kills me. No one should ever feel like I do right now. I should be the only one, and not even I should bare this weight.
And now?
I’m fearless.
Because I have known true fear, I have known true helplessness. I have taught myself how to fight, how to fight back.
I am the person I want to meet on the streets. I’m a warrior, a soldier, a survivor. I will shield any soul from the darkness, and they will be safe with their hand in mine. I will stand up against racism, sexism, xenophobia. I will stand up against arrogance and ignorance. I will stand toe to toe with the four horsemen before I let another be ripped away from this life.
Life is fragile.
You are important.
Regardless of age, sex, race. You matter to me. Your soul is entwined with mine. I’m your sister, your mother, your brother, your father… I’m African, and my heart beats to the sound of the war drums echoing in the streets of our country. No more, we sing. No more.
Fear me, because I’m standing up for my country and her people. Fear me because I rage against the darkness. Fear me because I’m one of many voices, one of many sparks that will set the pulse of Africa alight.
I am Woman. Hear. Me. Roar.
by 