"Unbroken Threads: A Woman's Journey Through Hardship and Purpose"

Home

After traveling for a short distance, I arrived in Durban. Durban, a coastal city in eastern South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, is known for its African, Indian, and colonial influences. The air, fragrant; filled with the rich smell of Afro-Indian delicacies. The beach sand is soft and golden. The sky was lit by the sun and warm to the touch. I can smell the Indian Ocean as I breathe in and out. I see melanin in all of its various shades.

The Chain Breakers will be camping out at the Jehovah Jireh Missionary Village, based in Kokstad KwaZulu-Natal South Africa. It is a quaint residence that blends traditional Zulu culture and the subtropical beauty of the region. Nestled amidst rolling green hills, the house is a modest yet charming structure, surrounded by vast fields of farmland and lush vegetation.

The residence itself is a single-story building, constructed with locally sourced materials. The walls are made of sun-baked clay bricks, their earthy tones blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. A thatched roof, woven from the sturdy grass of the nearby fields, provides a rustic yet effective shelter from the elements. The eaves extend generously, casting cool shadows over the windows and doorways.

As you approach the house, a sense of tranquility envelops you. The pathway leading to the front door is lined with vibrant bougainvillea and hibiscus flowers, their vivid colors contrasting beautifully with the natural greens and browns of the environment. A wooden veranda, adorned with handcrafted furniture and colorful woven mats, offers a welcoming space to sit and enjoy the gentle breezes that carry the scent of jasmine and frangipani.

Inside, the home is a blend of simplicity and warmth. The floors are made of polished cement, cool underfoot, and easy to clean. The walls are adorned with traditional Zulu art, vibrant patterns, and family photographs that tell stories of generations. Natural light streams in through large windows, illuminating the open-plan living area. The furniture is a mix of modern comfort and local craftsmanship, with woven baskets, clay pots, and wooden carvings adding to the authentic feel.

In the kitchen, the heart of the home, the scent of freshly baked bread and spices fills the air. A large wooden table, often the gathering place for family meals, stands proudly in the center. Copper pots and pans hang from hooks above a rustic stove, ready for the preparation of hearty, traditional dishes. The cooks will provide us with three meals a day. Once a week we will be partaking in a braai which is the South African equivalent of an American barbecue. A braai is a fundamental part of South African culture and is a gathering of friends and family around a wood-fire grill in celebration.

Outside, the land stretches out in all directions. Small vegetable gardens, tended with care, provide a bounty of fresh produce. Chickens roam freely, pecking at the ground, while goats graze on the grassy slopes. In the distance, the silhouette of sugar cane fields can be seen, their tall stalks swaying gently in the breeze.

At night, the sky, free from the glare of city lights, reveals a breathtaking canopy of stars. The sounds of nature—crickets chirping, frogs croaking, and the occasional distant call of a night bird—create a symphony that lulls the inhabitants into a peaceful slumber.

Currently, 18 dedicated individuals reside on the property year-round, each contributing uniquely to the community's vibrant life. Among them, eight serve as our esteemed instructors and religious leaders, guiding both spiritual growth and educational pursuits with wisdom and compassion. Five devoted groundskeepers maintain the pristine beauty of our surroundings.

Four nurturing nannies provide loving care for the children of our staff families, of which there are four, creating a warm and supportive environment where families can thrive. In the heart of our community, two skilled kitchen staff members prepare nourishing meals that bring everyone together. Additionally, two versatile drivers not only ensure smooth transportation but also lend their hands to various tasks across the base.

As I complete the tour of the property, a profound sense of belonging washes over me. I am exactly where I need to be, surrounded by a community that feels like family. The anticipation for tomorrow, our first day of training, fills me with excitement and a renewed sense of purpose.