Our Zulu names.

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Melinda: Ntokozo (pronounced Too-KO-so) means "joy"
Mel: Thandi (pronounced Tan-dee) means "to like"
Kayleen: Spongile (pronounced Spunk-EE-lay) means "thankful"

Melinda's friend is Zulu and his grandmother gave us Zulu names when we stopped by on our way to Melinda's from the airport. I had a lot of fun asking him questions on the drive and learning more about South Africa and the Zulu people. We discussed South African history and racial issues, the present affects of Apartheid, reconciling modernization with tradition, cultural differences in dating, and specific Zulu traditions. He also gave us advice and warnings specific to South Africa and where we will be staying.

Only hours in South Africa and I am already learning so much.


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