A tangled web of weaves, wind and lack of water

MOTHER Nature is really causing havoc in our city. We are running out of water and, for the first time in its 40-year history, the Cape Town Cycle Tour was cancelled due to strong winds.

Over 35 000 cyclists were told just minutes before the start of the race. I cannot begin to imagine the emotional state they were in.

All the effort, money invested in this race and then: nothing. The homeless earn a good day’s money looking after cars that are parked by people racing, and spectators. Usually, we would wash some cars as well but, with the water restrictions, we could not.

Last week we also reflected on a departed homeless woman, Frieda Darvel.

This street child had a voice and she ended up appearing in the Coca-Cola Pop Idols competition.

This kid even got to meet the king of Sweden. She had compassion and love for her fellow street people. I met Frieda years ago at MyLife, an NGO run by Linzi Thomas.

Imagine this: Her funeral was held in the Cape Town City Hall. Mayor Patricia de Lille attended and paid tribute to Frieda. There was a time when we were part of the larger community. Today we are regarded as undesirables.

SouperTroopers had a social gathering at the Service Dining Rooms and it was enjoyed by all.

Charly’s Bakery spoiled us with cupcakes and quiche while Magic Man Greg Gelb entertained the crowd. We had Maya Spector at the mic, who got everybody dancing and having a good time.

It was also a time to reflect on the good things we have in our lives. How blessed we are to have interaction with the public who share our passion for life, understand our dreams, and who support us in whichever way they can.

TB/HIV, an NGO in the city, is currently doing a hepatitis awareness campaign whereby people can get tested and referrals made for possible vaccinations or treatment. This is one health issue we don’t really worry about, but we should as it can be life-threatening. The only way to know is to get tested.

TB/HIV does such great work and is really saving lives as they are absolutely non-judgemental towards the homeless. It empowers us to get medical treatment when needed.

Now to a matter very close to my heart: I wrote before about the state of the pigeons on the Parade.

The situation is dire. The hair, that is used to weave, is causing so much trouble. It wraps around the toes, feet and legs of these birds, cutting off circulation. End result: they lose their feet. They are unable to walk and getting food is very difficult. I wish I knew what could be done. It is a shame that a beauty procedure – extending one’s hair – is the cause of death to many birds. Can one ban people from using it in a public space?