Author: Felicia Mkhize

Crime has become one of the unintended consequences of our freedom and democracy. Daily we hear and read of brutal, senseless and barbaric crimes committed to homeowners in their very houses. This has made residential complexes and boomed off areas very popular, especially to those of us that are hardly home.

I moved into this complex, attracted by its free-standing units and gardens. It beats flats in that my property does not end at the kitchen door. I can entertain friends and have braais outdoors, during warm summer days. I sleep easier at night knowing there’s 24-hour security patrolling the property. It is neither fool-proof nor 100% safe, yet by far beats the alternative.

Ausi Martha, my helper, is a very warm soul. Generous, as well. She gets along with everyone, from the security to kids on our block. She knows everyone by name and it is just a pity that I spend very little time around her to delve deeper into her personality as she leaves 30 minutes after my arrival from work. A time she spends drinking tea. Surprisingly, the last I bought teabags was 3 months ago and the jar is still 3 quarters full.

Last Saturday, during a hot summer afternoon, I was lazing around the house after watching soapie omnibus and waiting for the day’s soccer match to begin. Because of the heat I left the front door open and the fan was running at full speed. In comes this security guy that introduced himself as James, heavily panting;

                “Could I have cold water, please?”

As I was searching through my kitchen looking for a suitable container to meet his requirements, he said,

“There’s a green 500ml Jug with dent on the side in the cupboard behind the door. I think it will do”

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