Learners tackle a once in a lifetime journey

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The Odyssey has gained momentum since its inception three years ago.

Those who walk it are no longer fearful of what it entails and seem to relish in co-existing with the exquisite environment that we are graced with in the Karoo.

According to Union's headmaster William Pringle, the learners who have participated in Odyssey emerge unified, respectful and with a strong sense of who they are.

He says that this year's Grade 12s bear testament to this. During their time in the wilderness, the Grade 10s glean many life skills including setting up camp in suitable places, fire making and the management thereof, cooking for themselves, team-work and co-operation.

Little things like making a cup of coffee from scratch become vitally rewarding. They soon learn which things that they thought were essential, become heavy and redundant in their lives and on their backs! And, of course, the lack of cell phones and technology for the entire time leads to a refreshing new view on the world where they are seen looking upward and outward instead of having their heads downwards and consciousness inward.

While some find the daily hikes relatively easy as they are strong and fit, there are many who find it physically challenging, yet somehow each and every one finds the inner strength to complete each leg of the journey.

The grade emerges out of Odyssey bonded in a way that is noticeable, with camaraderie, encouragement and admiration of one another being key factors that become evident. They also learn that no matter how difficult and painful things can be sometimes, giving up is not an option, and each and every participant was extremely proud to complete the 5-day challenge.

On day 2, Paula Kingwill facilitated a drama therapy workshop to the learners in the wilderness.

This year they focused on what life lessons they have learned from nature, and according to Paula, the creative ideas that the group enacted were remarkable. Solitaire is also an important exercise during their time away. Waking before dawn, all 52 children were placed out in the environment in total solitude and silence for five hours.

During this special time they were given a letter written to them by their parents, were encouraged to write a letter to themselves which they will open at their Valedictory in two years, and were taught the art of paying attention to life in the 'now' by David Langmead. It is a beautiful thing to witness learners emerging from this valuable exercise - some quietly reflective, some emotional - all filled with peace.

On the final day, as they stand unified on top of Ouberg, with Graaff-Reinet in the distance before them, and Compassberg far behind, the group is encouraged to take a moment to leave any pain that they may be carrying behind them on that mountain, before they descend light and free towards home.

Odyssey could not happen without the love and generosity of so many who give so much to make it a success. The custodians of the land who are so gracious and generous; Union High that supports the concept financially and logistically; parents who make food behind the scenes that is delivered each evening to far-flung places, and Kevin and Lisa Watermeyer, David and Bronwen Langmead, Elrich and Lisa Jantjies, Jonathan Pelser, Flippie Loock and Nibs Price who devote a week of their lives to logistics and walking with the group ensuring their well-being along the way.

Union High's Odyssey is about hearts. The hearts of those who give, and the hearts of those who grow.

Carefully selected stopover points are chosen for camps each evening.