Yesterday was an emotionally draining day in all aspects . Our time spent at the Apartheid Museum was the most thought provoking visit of the day for me. We've read and learned a lot about the history of Apartheid before coming to South Africa, but seeing the different pictures, watching videos, and hearing stories made it all the more meaningful. It astounds me that the horrific history of South Africa definitely did not occur in the distant past. It is just so incredible that something as detrimental as Apartheid even happened in the first place, and not that long ago. When you hear about people not having equal rights in such an overpowering way, you think about the problem being 50-60 years ago, not under 20 years.

Near the end of the Apartheid Museum, there were blurbs and pictures about the first time people were able to vote in '94. My favorite picture was that of an older gentleman being supported by two younger men helping place this man's ballot in the box. It just so struck me how much of a privilege it is for the people of South Africa to vote, and how much we take it for granted in the states. There is a way to make your voice heard, and that is so crucial that we all take advantage of that.

I have so enjoyed my time in South Africa. It is a beautiful country with such a sad history, but as I have learned in my short time here, there is hope for the future. It is important for not only the people of South Africa, but for everyone to learn of the history of Apartheid with the hope that we can prevent such an act from repeating itself.