Appreciation

This morning the gray skies and the cool weather made me think that another day indoors was on the cards. So I have been occupied with indoor activities. A few minutes ago I opened the window as it looks like the sun is trying to emerge. As I opened the window a cool wind gushed through, into the room.

I was overcome with guilt at how privileged I was to experience a favourable climate and sunshine in Africa. Here in Europe people are caged in, in their homes without fresh air, sunshine or warmth. This flat I stay in has no heating so I am sure it becomes cold in winter. One of the bedrooms in this flat does not even have a window. Poor American!! He gets no fresh air or natural light in his room. All of these things come standard in Africa - light, air, warmth. Heating does not come standard in Africa, as it is not as cold. Very seldom would one find a room without windows. It is very uncommon - in fact rare. As for sunshine, there is an abundance of that.

I realise that life in Africa affords many privileges. Natural light, flowing oxygen, warmth, a favourable climate - things that in Africa, we tend to take for granted. It takes going elsewhere to realise how valuable these things are!