"Waiting for the Rain", by Shelia Gordon

Waiting for the Rain

Sheila Gordon

Negotiations to End Apartheid in South Africa

Gordon

Gordon

This novel was extremely rewarding to read, as you got to experience personal accounts of afflictions like racism and develop a very good understanding of its implications. Gordon broaden my horizon. She wrote about the rash times of the unjust policy of apartheid in South Africa. During the unfair treatment a young boy endured, he had to decide if the value of friendship can overcome extreme tensions risen by a unfavorable system. Based on the extremes of racism, the message itself hit's the reader hard. Told in a manner easily understand, it discusses conflict and emotions that cannot be seen from a more general explanation. Tracing the footsteps of Tengo from the early stages of childhood through his recognition of injustice as a young adult, through riots and the onset of revolution and the secret meetings of the African National Congress, through life-altering decisions, through rage and frustration, to a final confrontation with his old childhood friend.

My favorite or the most rewarding message I received from Waiting for the Rain, was all life problems are temporary problems that can be solved. Solving problems as they arise is in reality, the easiest way to live. Tengo, the underdog in society, did not let the hardships and disadvantages in his life hinder his potential, but he let them motivate him instead. Admiring his attitude and focus to achieving his goals, even though first thought to be impractical, you begin to understand that the obstacles in life can be overcome. Every problem solved is a sense of pride that helps strengthen the conscious mind and helps build self-esteem. Problems don't reward people, but make life harder and more complex, yet success would not feel as great without some struggle to get there. Exerting...