Pizza Party

Saturday night, we had a get-together for a team of missionaries that was here from Louisiana. We ate Swazi pizza and talked, which was interesting. After we talked with a few of them for a while, I feel like there are some things that I should clear up for those of you at home.

First, in Southern Africa, there are three "racial" groups. In the US, people are white or black (there are other groups, but I'm leaving them aside for now). Everyone who has a hint of color in their skin is considered black. Here, people who have both black and white ancestors are considered "coloured." The term is considered offensive in the US, but here it's common and not anything to blink at. So if you come to Southern Africa, now you'll know what they're talking about.

Second, Apartheid. If you don't know about it, you should. It's not that old (it ended in '94) and it still has a major influence on the culture of Southern Africa. My best friends here are black, but when we were born, our parents probably could not have predicted that would even be possible. If you come to Southern Africa, you'll be expected to know Apartheid.

I'm sure most of you were familiar with these things, but they're probably good reminders for all of us. It's important to understand other cultures, especially when we visit them. Have a good week.

-Ben