Mariha in Lesotho

The rains have finally let up, and we are enjoying some of the glorious days that mariha (winter) in Lesotho can bring. Bright sunny days; cool yes, but great for going for a walk.

Wendy and I have found a way through a nearby village that does not feel like we are walking through peoples houses. Village areas can be quite intimate. Running water tap means running, or walking, to get it, and it is not uncommon to see women in their pajamas or house coats walking to a nearby tap. With houses that have only one room the visiting takes place outside. So when we walk through a village area we are often walking through a men’s card game or gambling session. Or women doing the family laundry. I am often uncomfortable, feeling that I am wandering through someone’s private space. So when we can find a way through a village that actually follows a road I no longer feel like an intruder. At any rate, on the other side of this village, is a mountain, and a most enjoyable hike it is.

The mountain from our house.

Once through the village we only meet curious folks wondering why two lekhooa (white people) are clambering over the rocks and picking their way up a small trail. The mountain, like so many in Lesotho, is actually a plateau, and on top is a planted forest of gum and pine trees. In this land of few trees, I love the wind sighing in the pines up top - a reminder of home, and warm sunny days wandering along forest trails in the mountains of Alberta. The flat terrain up top also allows one to wander away from the plateau edge and there amidst the trees, the sights and sounds of the city recede; a place to relax, reflect, and let time stand still for a moment. I find it a wonderful place to spend a warm and sunny winter day.

Another mountain seen from our house that is also a fun hike.

Back down in the city and in our house winter is another matter. I have previously mentioned that the warmth of the shorter winter days is not sufficient to drive the cold of the winter nights from the houses. Our living space consists of two rooms that we keep heated, the kitchen and the bedroom. So the open space of the mountain top also provides a welcome respite to the reduced space down below.

Early morning frost, mariha in Lesotho.

Looking forward to summer in Canada, before returning to Lesotho for spring.

~ Benno ~