On our second day here, we were invited to Vernon’s where I attended my first Braii. Unlike
American barbeques, a Braii is a get together between family and friends which
promotes socializing for opportunities to meet new people or to cure any
broken/outdated bonds. Although it sounds similar to a barbeque, the catch to a
Braii is the food isn’t prepared until all the guests have arrived ensuring
that the goal of communication is accomplished. I find this African technique
to be very clever and quite meaningful. Admittedly, back at home, most people
do not care for communication at barbeques; it’s more so about the food than
the memories. Surprisingly enough, the goal of the Braii was successful. I came
into this study abroad program knowing three out of the nine other students. By
the end of the night, I was close to not only all of the students but Vernon’s
whole family as well. What I admire the most about that night was I felt loved.
Before eating, everyone formed a circle gripping each other’s hands so tightly
as if we’d never be letting go. We bowed our heads and prayed: making an oath
that we would protect one another because at the very moment we were no longer
considered individuals but instead “one”. I almost cried tears of happiness
after realizing this was now my Cape Town family.
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