Why were they picking up litter while on holiday in South Africa? Simple… because someone has to do it.
Mr and Mrs Hightower from the USA were caught picking up litter from the side of the road. Frances Reynolds, a local in Winklespruit saw the couple and stopped to find out why.
Their answer… because someone has to do it.
The couple went on to say that they believe that our country is beautiful but the litter is appalling.
Reynolds convinced them to take a picture to post on social media, in the hopes that it would inspire others living in South Africa to clean up after themselves.
“So this is Mr and Mrs Hightower, from the USA. They are visiting South Africa. Driving to Winklespruit I saw them on the side of the road picking up litter, so I stopped to find out why.”
“They said they think our country is beautiful but the litter is appalling.”
“So why pick it up? Because someone has to.”
“They were not keen to be put onto Facebook but I explained that maybe it could inspire some if us who actually live here to do the same. Such amazing people.”
And users on social media were totally inspired:
Patricia Robertson posted: “Also saw them. Thank you, Mr & Mrs Hightower :-). Now we need to follow your example.”
Zephian Alberts added: “Well done…….true inspiration”
Sithembiso Blessing Majoka commented: “That’s very kind of them. How can we instill this culture to us, I wonder it shocking what you see when driving behind a car and litter is chucked out the window.”
John S Jackson said: “Inspiration indeed. Must say that last weekend I think Durban Underwater Club got members together and did a good clean up of their beach area. So this does happen but certainly not enough and as these American visitors show it is something that should be engendered in the hearts of all to pick up rubbish and clean up wherever they go. Well done the Hightowers.”
Laura Parsons wrote: “Thank you I challenge all South Africans to do the same – we can do it!”
Lets hope that stories like this serve as a reminder to all of us to be more wary of our waste and litter.
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