January 27.   The Ndlovu family had a long history and tradition. Gogo told the stories at this time.  In former times the  “patriarch” was the undisputed leader and young and older members listened and obeyed him as a matter of course.  Then younger men had gone off to the mines to work.  Women had stayed behind.  Split families had settled in urban areas where some had prospered while other parts had remained in rural areas.  Politics had taken over from family traditions and conflict arose over political affiliations. Would it ever be possible to rebuild some form of family unity or the type of families that are sustainable? Do we try hard enough? 

Reflect, share. Scripture: If a kingdom is divided against itself that kingdom cannot stand. Mark 3:22-30.   Pope Francis:  JUBILEE. Looking to the future with hope (and for Signs of Hope) also entails having enthusiasm for life and a readiness to share it. Sadly, in many situations this is lacking. A first effect of this is the loss of the desire to transmit life. A number of countries are experiencing an alarming decline in the birthrate as a result of today’s frenetic pace, fears about the future, the lack of job security and adequate social policies, and social models whose agenda is dictated by the quest for profit rather than concern for relationships. In certain quarters, the tendency “to blame population growth, instead of extreme and selective consumerism on the part of some, is one way of refusing to face the real issues.” Jub25. SNC 5.   Pray: for family and community sustainability and openness to life and transmission of life.  Choose appropriate action.