Today is a bittersweet one for South Africa, a mixture of contrasting emotions such as joy and sadness, pride and regret. It is joyful because today we celebrate Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s 79th birthday, but sad because this is his official day of ‘retirement’ from public life.
Tutu faithfully served South Africa for decades. He was a courageous and prophetic voice of challenge to the previous NP government, and then also to the ANC government when he thought they got it wrong. Tutu's unwavering stand for truth and justice sometimes lost him friends, but always deepened the respect in which he is held throughout the globe.
In a recent interview with Time Magazine, Tutu said that “the texture of our universe is one where there is no question at all but that good and laughter and justice will prevail”.
But Tutu has not just been a prophet he has also been a pastor. The Archbishop always played an integral role in reconciling division and healing brokenness within South Africa. More than that his laughter, zest for life and sheer joy have been infectious for many.
There is no doubt that South Africa will miss “the Arch” as he is affectionately known, but we can only wish him everything of the best in his retirement as he seeks to spend more quality time with his loved ones “sipping rooibos tea” and watching “cricket and rugby and soccer and tennis.”