a long way

its lunch time at one of my favourite cafes.
I am sitting in the shade of the trees, its a gorgeous day.
the wind is stroking my calves and playing with my skirt.
there is a scent of roses in the air.

I am in south africa.
its 2008.
the democracy is only 14 years young.
in the cafe there are only white guests.
happy people, eating delicious food and chilled wine.
smiles. laughter. friends.

the only black person around is the homeless man walking past,
humbly asking for some cents.
its been a very long time since he had a hot shower,
since he slept in a bed,
since he had a decent healthy meal - if he ever did.
but he is invisible to them. an anomaly of society. unwanted.

yoh, there is still a long way to go..