Our nation deserves a dialogue!
As South Africans we should refuse to be told what to do or what not to do, without having a proper dialogue to fully understand the situation we are faced with.
South Africa is going through “birth pains”. It’s not a bad thing but it’s a crucial situation. And we shouldn’t allow anything or anyone to make us feel or think that we are at the worst situation as a nation, because we are not. We have been through far worse than this, and we came out as a stronger and better nation.
I deeply believe that our nation has grown and matured in different angles. Our young democracy has now matured, and it’s ready to give birth to change; political change, economic change and social change. However, the best way to approach this change is through dialogue. Dialogue is the most despised approach of dealing with issues, but is the most sensible and mature way of resolving problems, because it means taking part in a conversation or discussion to resolve a problem.
We do have problems and struggles just like any other nation, but we have to put our pride and differences aside, and sit down as decent citizens and discuss the problems and struggles that affect us as a nation.
I emphasise – our country is undergoing changes that precede “birth pains”, just as a pregnant woman will experience many usual and unusual changes in her body. Though she can be disturbed by the changes, she is also encouraged by them, knowing they are a clear indication that she will soon give birth. This scenario is exactly what we are going through as a nation. And if we can encourage the spirit of dialogue on all levels then we will soon realise that change is good and “birth pains” are necessary.
As South Africans we should refuse to be told what to do or what not to do, without having a proper dialogue to fully understand the situation we are faced with. By so doing we will avoid supporting “half truth, half lie” presentations. As a democratic nation, we shouldn’t just follow without asking all the necessary questions, despite who tells us to follow. We have come too far as a nation, we are not dumb, will never become dumb. Our forefathers fought the apartheid regime from all angles. But dialogue was also part and parcel of their battle. Without a dialogue, how can you understand what you’re fighting for, what you want, what you represent, and what you hope for.
Having and promoting dialogue is everyone’s responsibility. Parliament should promote it, then there will be peace and stability despite their different political views. After all, when leaders disagree on almost everything, it delays service delivery, and the poor citizens are mostly affected. The spiritual leaders should promote it within religious organisations, then there will be tolerance and understanding of one’s religion and beliefs. The community leaders should promote it within our society, then there will be safe and prosperous communities.
The educational institutions should promote it by bringing forth initiatives in schools that involve our youth in dialogue concerning political, social and economic changes. By doing so we will be grooming well-informed future leaders. South Africa will never fail, South Africans will govern through dialogue. United we are the voice of the nation!
