The crime rate in South Africa is unbelievable. I was there last year and, although I didn't experience anything untoward myself, I came into contact with several people who had, only recently, suffered
muggings or car-jackings.
I wish them all a more peaceful 2009.
For a cheerier view of the festive season see my PLUS blog.
LAUGHTER AND TEARS
A cartoon may be funny but it, also, can be sad.
It's not just airy-fairy; it can echo something bad.
When first you view this picture you may laugh because it's fun
Until you see that Santa has been threatened by a gun!
Men in balaclavas have left him there for dead
And they've rushed off with the Christmas gifts to use themselves instead.
For this represents South Africa, where crime is very rife,
Where murders happen all the time, with gun or fist or knife.
I have old friends in Africa who simply have to cope
The New Year may be better. Well, we can only hope.
