We need to stand together

The year started off on a negative note when the word racism was used far and wide on social and in print media.

Amidst all the controversy there was some uplifting news too.

Despite the drought that is crippling agriculture in various areas, residents came together to help bring relief.

So many people on Facebook proactively collected bottles with water to be distributed in the drought-striken Free State.

Motorists posted videos of the trucks filled to the brim with water. Some even carried grass cuttings.

That is a proud moment, to see how people care about others. It should happen more often.

We should focus on helping people who are in need, regardless of race or religion. We all deserve a place in the sun, we all at some point need help, and we all experience heartache, loss, love and death.

However, we also should show respect to each other, to animals and the environment.

Some time ago I read something that really made me think – ” We should not wonder what kind of world we leave for our children, but rather what kind of child we leave for the world.”

However, I don’t want this column to turn into a sermon. Just think about these words.

The rain has brought some relief this past weekend and even the hail was welcome. None of my belongings was damaged during the hail storm and it was a spectacular sight.

I only can pray that the desperately needed rain also reached farmers.

Let’s stand together and respect each other.

Did the hail damage your property? Did you take photos of it coming down? Please send it to riaanvz@caxton.co.za.