Dear Johannesburg

Never in my wildest dreams would I ever fall for you.

I never considered calling you my home, never mind a friend.

People desert you. They give up on you. They are fed up with your violent nature.
What they say is true, and no one is perfect. You’re no exception. Your violence, a symptom of your painful past.

They question my love for you.
Am I insane, they say! The Mother City has all the beauty and the glory. The Wines! The Beach! The Hospitality! What is wrong with me? What do you have, aside from grimy buildings and money-hungry companies?
But how can they fault you for attracting us with your promise of jobs, jobs and more jobs that pay?
A city of transplants full of hope and ambitions?
A city full of kind strangers with open hearts?

Seven years ago, you helped me mend my broken bleeding heart.
Your tenderness enabled me to become who I am today.

I am your biggest fan.
I am here to stay.

Johannesburg, you turn my frown upside down.
Hello, how are you?