In the Spirit of Ubuntu: Angryafrican.

Because I feel like I have an accurate ability to perceive others, I feel like I don’t get surprised very often.  However, when it comes to this bearer of Ubuntu, I have to say, I was wrong.

I was VERY surprised.

I wasn’t surprised because it is a man, nor because he is from South Africa, nor because of his passion with which he writes.  None of those characteristics were where the surprise came.  The surprise came in what is hidden underneath all of that, yet it breaks through in his posts, and in his spirit.

This man is so full of love, I have been reduced to tears at times when I have read his blogs.  AA writes from the most soulful place that you can imagine.  If a child, or a person he cares about, or even one that he does not know, is hurting, he is fierce in his defense of that person.  He is not afraid to show his real feelings, although the surprise came in how specifically he will express them.  Some people say how they feel, but you don’t really FEEL how they feel.  Not with AA; you always know……

AA is one of those persons who walks the walk of Ubuntu; he is a tremendous father; he is an awesome husband; he cares about others, and his community.  And, he absolutely ADORES and misses his South Africa.  His loyalty and commitment are unflinching. 

And, oh those words.  Those words that pierce right through any hint of denial that I might be cloaking myself with, in terms of politics, oppression, injustice, or the little girl who used to live in the blue house down the street, he will say it all, no holds barred.  That is what makes him so irreplaceable, and so essential when it comes to Ubuntu, and putting thought and spirit into action.

AA is a child at heart, one that will always be.  He dances with his children, he sings, he plays, he rejoices in having the family that he is surrounded with.  He aspires to get onto the conference room table at work on any given day, and bursting forth into song or a tap dancing routine, just because.

This is a person that I cannot wait to hug.  Seriously.  I think about this.  Because, when the connection of Ubuntu has touched us, it makes us want to touch one another.  To have that human, in person, 3D connection to one another.  This is a person who I can envision standing in a busy section of New York city with, and offering free hugs to pedestrians with.  Fun, and a connecting experience……….

This person also knows his own limitations, which I believe is an integral part of Ubuntu as well.  For, how can we offer of ourselves to others, if we don’t have it for ourselves??  We must do our own inventory, and tend to our own soul gardens to be able to water and nurture anothers.  He knows when he needs an extended coffee break.

AA:  the spirit of Ubuntu, lived, loved and modelled for all to see. SIncerity.  Compassion.  Love.  Trust.  Perseverance.  Vulnerability.  He has been one of my most pleasant surprises here……

I love you, friend.