Reconciliation is an individual obligation

By Sanjeev “Mahatma” Gupta
National Reconciliation Day is an opportunity to evaluate the progress (or lack of) we have made as a nation since 1994. There is divided opinion on whether we are recuperating from apartheid era ills and progressing towards achieving the goal of national unity or not. Although through various forums we endeavor to display a semblance of racial harmony, for one thing: there is still a way a long way to go, or others would argue, our journey has yet to begin.
It is disingenuous to pretend that we share a common vision that transcends racial stereotypes, when deep down our hearts we know we are still enclosed in cast iron boxes which Verwoerd placed us in.
We are all complicit in the sluggishness, yet to let go of the past, either as victims smarting from the pain or direct or indirect beneficiaries. For this reason, it is incumbent upon every South African reconcile with the reality that they are living in the new era. Granted, it is strenuous, a process not an event.
Sanjeev Gupta is a freelance writer based in Chatsworth, Kwazulu Natal