I started my day by switching on my PC and checking e-mail, hopeful as always. Living in Johannesburg, I conscously block out any thoughts of crime and the economy. Instead, I respond to mails and wonder if I really should do something on this Reconciliation Day or whether I should just use the public holiday like those I know, which means catching up on chores left from the week and relaxing. Hopefully the weather will hold as I admired the pool - not perfectly clean, but at least looking inviting. That solved my dilemma: I would celebrate by reconciling myself with the cool water first, then think about the rest of the day!