Heritage Day

Today, 24 September, is National Heritage Day here in South Africa. Of course, in true 'hallmark card' style the popular press has renamed it National Braai Day. (Pronounced be-reh-high, feel free to 'brey' the 'r' for effect.) A braai (noun and verb) is an outdoor barbecue and apparently the only symbol of unity and heritage we citizens have. Interestingly, Heritage Day is one of just a few holidays of ours that are not rooted in Judeo-Christian tradition. The weather in the Western Cape is being totally rebellious though (wet), and I for one, will not be doing any braaing today.