Thursday morning, just after 9, I met up with my friend Mpho. She stayed with me in 2004 when St James, Clayton hosted a group of three visitors from Matlosane, not long after my first visit here. I stayed with her for most of my sabbatical in 2014. Her husband has just bought a farm with three other men, so officially she is a farmer's wife, but anyone less like a farmer's wife it would be hard to meet. In her youth she was a beauty queen, hence her nickname, Queen. However, she is taking classes in cheese and butter making and hopes to go into production in the New Year. We chatted away till lunchtime and then I set to on the blogs I produced yesterday which took till supper time!
Today, Friday , I designated as a quiet day to be spent at Bona Bona Game Reserve, which is only 30 minutes drive away, and one of my favourite places. It has been the hottest day so far today so I was glad of the chance to sit and think about my sermon. But there was also some animal watching - but nothing like Pilanesburg. Some animals - giraffe, rhino, various bok - all roam free, but the predators - lion and other big cats, wild dogs, hyena - are all kept in large enclosures, and are part of a conservation programme. I noticed that both the lake and the water hole near the restaurant were very low on water. Despite the heavy rains of two weeks ago, a lot more is needed.
The rhino put in a proud appearance. At first they were in the distance but later they came right up under the balcony, three adults and one baby. It was noticeable that one adult kept well away from what was presumably the family unit. I saw a sign that said 'Viewing platform' and went to investigate. There was literally a sheet of glass between me and the rhinos - hopefully toughened glass!!
So now it's full steam ahead for Sunday. The service here begins at 9am, which, if the clocks have gone back in the UK, will be 0700 GMT. The first part of the service should run smoothly, with no long chorus singing bits (only if you've been here can you truly understand what that means!!). So I anticipate it will be around 7.45 / 8 that the actual canon making bit will happen. So for most of you reading this, I should do your praying on Saturday night! Or, as God is outside space and time, do it when you can, and he will use it in his own inimitable timing!
Still quite a lot of animals jn evidence.
ReplyDeleteHope you found the peace and time for the 'thinking'. Good luck with the composing/writing tomorrow!! xx
I do hope all goes well tomorrow. You are, of course, in my prayers.
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