I’ve witnessed several times over the years that Safricans tend to greet each other as long lost friends once they assemble at the departure gate for the flight home.

Dulles International’s Gate 8 became a reunion of sorts as South Africans of all ages merged after their separate but shared experience of ‘Merika.

I heard the chatter, even joined in. 

“Whole neighborhoods with no fences or even security,” says one. 

“My sister doesn’t even lock her house,” brags another. 

Then, after the 14 hour flight, I found it rather beautiful when “Drift Away” played on the walkway speaker system and several over-tired travelers sang along as we entered the airport building.

I confess I did a little “wanna get lost in your rock and roll” myself.

Posted on January 10, 2023 at 10:36 pm in Difficult Relationships   |  RSS feed |   Reply   |   Trackback URL