Our group spent this weekend at a retreat center called Volmoed, where we had the opportunity to engage in conversation with author John de Gruchy. As a part of our theology course, we read a book by de Gruchy entitled Reconciliation: Restoring Justice. In addition to our dialogue with de Gruchy, the environment encompassing the retreat center offered a very moving experience.
Not only did I have the opportunity to hike to the top of a mountain to watch the sunrise, but I also spent the afternoon swimming beneath a waterfall. I even gathered enough courage to try the rope swing into the water. Having grown up watching every season of America's Funniest Video's with my brother, Jack, I was well prepared for a cliche rope-swing-accident. Thankfully, it went far more gracefully than I had imagined.
If you are interested in hearing more about the history/etc. of Volmoed, their website is http://www.volmoed.co.za/ They also have some great pictures of the surrounding area!
Although hiking is a major component of the center, I was ill informed as to the unique challenges that hiking in Volmoed would present. The surrounding area is home to a very large baboon presence. Needless to say, in addition to enjoying the scenery, much of my attention was focused on avoided baboon poop…too bad I'm a poor multi tasker.
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