I spent the weekend in Carnarvon in the Northern Cape. Not by choice, but by invitation.
I went to look at our wonderful scientific achievements, the Square Kilometer Array, which is a radio telescope used to look into deep space.
While that was fascinating, even more enjoyable was the road trip to a peaceful little dorpie with the warmest people I have ever encountered.
Carnarvon and all surrounding towns
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-GB;mso-fareast-language:
EN-GB;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">– Klawer, Calvinia, Williston, Vanrhynsdorp and Nieuwoudtville - isn’t for everyone.
These are dusty places with lots and lots of nothing for as far as the eye can see.
No malls. No highways. No late-night bars, and no hurry.
Most of the few shops close at midday and then there’s really not much to do, except enjoy the beauty of the Karoo.
I ate Karoo lamb, walked around in dark streets late at night without a fear, or a car passing. I listened to dogs barking in the distance and a town clock that chimed every half hour.
Kids chatting while riding their bicycles in the evening and everyone greeted one another.
I didn’t hear one siren disturbing the tranquility. Just peace and quiet.
It’s a place to connect with your soul. And we all need that every now and again.