Henna, Muslims, and a Waterpark?

Saturday the 18th, me and my team got the opportunity to go to a marine world, and have fun all day. Walking into this day, I was a little worried about whether or not to go, as I wasn’t feeling well. But I did, and I’m so glad I did, because that day turned out to be amazing.

One thing about me is that I think other cultures, and customs from those cultures are beautiful. Like I love henna. Well, there was a woman who did henna at the waterpark, and as soon as I saw that, I knew I had to get it done. So, after eating a lunch of fries and a bread roll, I went and got henna done while Ash sat with me. It was so fun, and the lady doing it gave me a feather for free because she wanted to show us the difference between the two colors she had. It was such a sweet interaction.

Going about our days here in South Africa, we encounter a good number of Muslims, especially compared to the very small, southern town I currently live in. I also find hijabs to be beautiful. Well, I saw a Muslim woman wearing a beautiful dress and full face hijab at the waterpark, and I wanted to tell her she was beautiful. But I chickened out. But I kept seeing her, and I kept hearing that little voice to go and tell her she was beautiful. But every time I saw her, she was busy or far away from me. Eventually, it’s time to leave and I’m walking out of the park talking to Sophie, and telling her about this woman. Then I’m looking up at the path in front of us, and there she is, on a phone call. So I said something to Sophie, and Sophie told me to tell her. I was like, no she’s on the phone. Well Sophie convinced me, so I went up to her and told her, and she just kinda lit up. It was really sweet.

The Marine World was such a sweet experience. I loved being able to hang out with my team, and squadmates. I loved being able to explore, and see all kinds of people from all over the place just having fun. It was so fun being able to see Clara meet the seals, and Esme and Ash meet the dolphins. The waterslides were so fun! And the ice cream was pretty good too. South Africa is called the rainbow nation for good reason, they have such a beautiful diversity that I loved being able to see all over the Marine World. I also enjoyed getting to learn about the African Penguins, which are now critically endangered. Let’s help them!

One other thing you guys can help with is support! I still need to raise a little over 3,000 dollars, and I would love your support in that.