* US President Barack Obama may have moved the masses attending Nelson Mandela’s memorial service with his stirring eulogy last Tuesday, but it was his grinning ‘selfie’ with Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt that proved a man will remain a man when seated next to an attractive lady. The so-called ‘selfie’ (short for ‘self-portrait’) was quickly picked up by major international news outlets and went viral on social media sites, with many questioning whether the moment of mirth was appropriate for the occasion. First US Lady Michelle Obama did not look very pleased. So now we understand what poor Bill Clinton endured in the Oval office with Monika Lewinsky within a cigar-length away!
* There were many luminaries present during the Madiba tribute and funeral, and there were many scenes that left an indelible mark in memory. But the one that tugged at my heart strings was the song the Soweto Gospel Choir sang as an incredible tribute to Madiba in the Woolworths Parkview store. It was not only spontaneous, but an incredible nation-building exercise a-la-Nelson Mandela. It was just a normal Saturday morning in the Woollies store in Parkview. South Africans were still recovering from the sad news of Nelson Mandela’s passing on December 5. Then a little magic happened in the aisles of the popular food and clothing store that touched everyone’s heart. A flash mob by the Soweto Gospel Choir paid tribute to South Africa’s hero. The results were touching and truly inspiring.
* Retired Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s home was robbed while he was away to attend a memorial honouring Nelson Mandela. While the country paid its last respects to Madiba, criminals continued with their trade. Cry the Beloved Country, cry!
* Leaders have lost their way and forgotten what former president Nelson Mandela taught them, former trade unionist Jay Naidoo said last week. He and suspended Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi were among a large crowd queuing for transport to the Union Buildings where Mandela was lying in state. The two interacted with people and encouraged them to be role models. “You have to stand in queues and talk to people. Madiba was a man of the people and fought for social justice and not for limousines and blue lights,” said Naidoo. “We are living in a bubble where we forget where people are.” Naidoo said Mandela put the people above their leaders; this has changed with time, as leaders now live in ‘ivory towers’.
* The team of municipal cleaners deserve some reward for the valiant work they do every evening to clean up the mess left behind by shoppers and the general public. Within a few hours of stores closing for business, the team (dressed in green) pick up litter and sweep the streets. The CBD is transformed from a pigsty to a neat and tidy business area. Unfortunately, all their hard work is reduced to zero within a few hours of a new shopping day. A few years ago, our town was regularly among the cleanest in the province, but that is now a pipe dream. It is definitely not the fault of the municipal cleaners!
* The municipality has brightened part of the main street by erecting Christmas lights. The lights are mediocre, but convey the spirit of festivities.
* This column has deplored the foot bridge on the N11 alongside Limit Hill. Add to that the new bridge at the Queen and Lyell Street intersection. Sanral is the one you should complain to. Because Lyell Street is part of the N11 major construction, it becomes the responsibility of Sanral. The ‘Boxer’ bridge is a waste of money! Very few, if any, will use it. Via the bridge it’s a long walk to cross the street.
* Wishing all my Christian friends a joyous Christmas. During your festivities, please spare a thought for those who are less fortunate.
