Mariki Schwiebus: “I have a dream for SA in 2017…”

By Mariki Schwiebus*

• I dream of citizens focused on appreciating all the small and beautiful things this country and its people produce and endow us with daily.
• I dream of enough resources to feed the bodies, souls and hopes of every citizen.
• I dream of young children whose ambitions are not sculptured by television, wealth and status.
• I dream of preserving our big five animal heritage, as well as our floral kingdom, for future generations.
• I dream of a nation who sleep peacefully and fast due to the toll of their daily grind.
• I dream of people who think and feel before they speak.
• I dream of school pupils from advantaged and disadvantaged backgrounds exchanging homes and schools for a week every year to learn that a future dream of a great nation is built on UNDERSTANDING.
• I dream of a country filled with citizens who proudly showcase to the world what can be achieved if all work together towards a great future for all, not just a few!
• I dream of an epitaph that says: "I played a part in making South Africa the greatest nation on earth!"

*For the past 15 years Mariki Schwiebus has been a communication manager for PEP, a company she says makes it possible for remarkable people, who on a very small budget, make it possible for their families to live with dignity and pride. Her purpose in life is to inspire and to beautify. She lives with her husband and their two furry, wire-haired fox terrier children in Cape Town during the week and in Rooi-Els over weekends. Her passions include exploring different parts of this planet annually and appreciating all the beautiful little things of life daily.