Where have all the flowers gone?
Spring Crop at the Roseland Crater by Eugenia Loli
Do you remember, as kids, how we used to support our relatives unconditionally? You know, my dad is stronger than yours? My mom is prettier. My sister draws better than your brother? My granny cooks better meals… Does that ring a bell?
I remember having this competition with a close friend one day. We used to visit my grandparents on their farm just outside of Groblersdal. In the mornings we would all get into their bed drinking super sweet coffee with a lot of milk my grandfather made us. My granny would tell us stories about “the old days”, raising and nurturing wild animals – I remember my grandpa’s protective sidekick crow and a baboon trying to carry a watermelon while a huge smile ran across his face. My gran would make bird shadows with her hands using the bedside lamp and teach us how to read an analogue clock using my grandpa’s metal alarm clock. Also, my granny used to sing us songs, teaching us the words. Her voice was so sweet.
So, this argument with my friend was about who sings better; my granny versus her aunt. I insisted my granny will win this contest without any doubt. I mean, how could you even try and argue with that? I can still hear her voice. Thinking about it now, I realise: This is love. On a next holiday on the farm, my sister told my granny about this argument I had with my friend, and I remember my gran being somewhat embarrassed. But, maybe more so, flattered.
I need to add that my friend’s aunt is the eccentric, multi-talented cabaret singer, Elzabé Zietsman. So there. Try and beat that!
Tannie Absie, it was nothing personal at the time, I promise! I love your voice and even own one of your CDs. I often listen to Where have all the flowers gone; it’s my ultimate favourite. Listening to it now I can’t help but wonder, like the flowers, where has our unconditional support gone? Long time passing… Maybe it is time to stand up more for our siblings, friends and family. Even though they might not be the best at something, at least acknowledge them for they can do well. My middle sister makes beautiful crafts and is, apart from my father, probably the most unbiased person I know. When in doubt, phone her. My eldest sister has a way-above-average sense of humour, speaks sarcasm fluently and is very arty at heart. When in the dumps, phone her. My sisters don’t have to beat your siblings at that, but hell, I’ll give them the credit they deserve.
Much love,
Where have all the flowers gone | Pete Seeger
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the flowers gone?
Girls have picked them every one
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?Where have all the young girls gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the young girls gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the young girls gone?
Taken husbands every one
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?Where have all the young men gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the young men gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the young men gone?
Gone for soldiers every one
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time ago
Where…
