Reflections of.......

I started jogging today (well it was more of walking really!!) after more than six months of excuses and it feels really good to be out pounding the road. The main reason for this procrastination is that Jo'burg roads are not friendly to joggers, unless you wake up very early in the morning to avoid the harassment from taxis and other drivers. We are so selfish and ruthless once we are behind the wheel, perhaps because we feel macho once inside the vehicle. I believe it is called road rage. And the layout of towns and cities in SA does not cater for pedestrians and in Joburg it is worse because there are cars everywhere and people are just impatient.

I met fellow joggers along the way and I was passed by two old ladies while I was doing the walking leg of the jog. I could just admire their stamina, I tried to catch up but ended up giving up. There were greetings and acknowledgements with other joggers and I felt that I belong.

But I also came across a lot of security guards in full uniform either walking or jogging to work. And none of them neither greeted me nor looked me in the eye so that I could greet them. You could see that they were avoiding my gaze and it made me sad. I asked myself whether these people feel so dehumanised and belittled in their uniform such that they can't look other fellow human beings in the eye. Or is it because they know that even if they look the joggers in the eyes they will not get any acknowledgement. Other people wearing their own clothes and presumably going to work were just fine.

This reminded me of a conversation I had with one of the security guards at the complex where I stay. Ours is a small complex and though we do not know each other (as residents) the security guards know each and everyone of us. It was just a simple conversation really where he was telling me who greets and who does not greet them at the gate when they enter or leave....and they know a lot more I tell you. And the abuse they have to undergo under their employers......

Anyway today's observation has reinforced my belief that each one of us should belief that no job is beneath us and that we should show appreciation for the "lowly" jobs that others engage in.

And on another matter....apparently the Zimbabwe government of unity is on again and the sticking point of ministries has been resolved. Apparently MDC has agreed to share the Home Affairs portfolio with Zanu PF subject to a review after six months. This is nothing new!! It was part of the agreement that was signed last year. The constitutional amendment will also be effected for the creation of the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister's post....again nothing new. One is bound to ask....what was the impasse really about. Lets hope that this time MDC does not unilaterally pull out of the agreement...