Editorial April 9, 2001 Issue

Unselfish aspirations

Heloisa Rivas

"Nkosi sikelel' iAfrika; Maluphakanyiw' uphondo lwayo . . . ." ["Lord, bless Africa; May her horn rise high up; Hear Thou our prayers and bless us."]

The South African National Anthem filled the air. It was the end of a magnificent presentation of music and drama just before sundown on a Cape Town plaza a few weeks ago. Sung by 30 young people for a group of visitors, the hymn was deeply moving, rich with hope and promise for Africa. All of Africa identifies with its message. And the words made those of us who were listening feel close to God, who is Soul. Yes, God answers the prayers of the sincere heart.

As we talked with the young performers afterward, they told us their dreams and their plans. Their families had suffered oppression; their rights had not been taken into account for decades. And the only form of work most of these young people knew meant serving other people's interests. In this emerging era of liberation and equality, however, they yearn for individual accomplishment, aspire to have a place in society. And they want to serve all humanity, in brotherhood and sisterhood.

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