“South Africa changed my life. I had the incredible privilege to travel to Cape Town, South Africa for my International Public Service Project while attending the Clinton School of Public Service in 2009. I had always wanted to visit South Africa ever since I was a child who accompanied my mother on a freedom march in the late 80’s chanting, “Free Mandela, Jail Botha.” I was fascinated by the hundreds of people marching in support of Mandela – a man who lived clear across the world. I didn’t really understand it at the time, but my mother explained it in full detail the day he was released from prison. I remember that moment just like yesterday…

As the daughter of activist parents, social justice issues have always intrigued me. When I got the chance, I wanted to explore the similarities and differences between the impact of apartheid in South Africa and the United States. I was chilled to the bone getting a glimpse into post apartheid South Africa, and even more so to recognize the same reflection of systematic oppression in the U.S. But, my heart was warmed and blossomed with love and joy by every beautiful soul I met.

Resistance of the human spirit is the bold narrative that I gained, the mantra that we share. Within us is an unbreakable glow…an energy…a mighty being. We are warriors, Kings, Queens, majestic human beings. Traveling to South Africa stirred my soul and a new spirit washed over me…a spirit of love, pride and power. I beamed when the Xhosa women said, “you are one of us.”  South Africa lives in me…”

– Spirit Trickey

063/100 of #100DaysofConfessions Instagram Project