Day 9

Saturday was definitely a day of relaxing that we all needed. This week has been draining on all of us. Some of us weren't feeling good and all of us were just plain tired. Spending the day being a tourist was much needed!

We went out to Robben Island in the morning. That is where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for many years. The trip out there was very informative and we learned a lot about South African history. It is incredible to think of how separated the whole country was only a few years ago. Although apartheid is officially over, it became apparent this past week that the idea of it still exists. The townships are often built based on race and fights often start based on race or gangs as well. The history of South Africa is really quite similar to America. Slaves were a huge part of the country for the longest time and racial separation has been part of our history as well. The only difference is that South Africa is a few years behind what we are. South Africa during the 1990s is really quite similar to US history during the 1960s. It will be interesting to see how South Africa continues to progress in the years to come. Racial tension is still an issue in America even nearly 50 years later. It takes a long time to change a person's perspective on issues that have been such a part of life for a long time.

After Robben Island we spent the afternoon walking around the waterfront, purchasing souvenirs and enjoying the afternoon off. Dinner was at Mama Africa's, a restaurant in downtown Cape Town. We were all feeling adventurous and tried all kinds of new food including crocodile, springbok, ostrich and others. It was great to spend time as a team. We have come to know so much about each other these past few days. What I love the most about our team is how much we laugh. No matter what we are doing, something always happens that causes us to laugh so hard. I think this has been one of the best things about this trip. Even among the most intense situations, we have not forgotten the ability to laugh and make fun of one another and ourselves. God has been so good to us this past week and it is evident in the way we have been able to bond as a team during our time.