TLW to Wentworth

On 28 March 2001 a team set out to Wentworth, Durban. At each of the 3 schools and the `home of safety' we visited, the presentation was opened with the well-known, easily-interpreted "True Love Waits" mime - a proven attention-gripper:The handling of a big symbolic pearl, signifying purity and virginity, portrays 3 different girls' valuation of their gift.

The first appreciates its value and would not exchange it for all the money or promises in the world. The second is glad about her pearl, but when men approach, she hides it away in embarassment. The third tosses hers playfully in the air, and without thinking twice, gives it away in good faith to the first `Mr Promises'. Once he has the wanted pearl, his image changes abruptly and with sadistic satisfaction he smashes the pearl on the floor and disappears. The shocked and devastated girl realises her eternal loss, but is shown the way to healing and renewed purity when the first girl points her to the Cross. There, kneeling in repentance, she receives a new pearl. At Assegai Primary, Wentworth High and Gardenia Road School the message was received with enthusiasm and all in all over 400 young people made a commitment to purity. One young girl expressed her understanding of `empty promises' when the pearl got smashed, by saying out loud : "That's just what boys are like". We were deeply moved by the response of girls at a home of safety, many of whom come from a background of abuse and violence. Most of them grabbed hold of the words of hope, healing and restoration, and determined to live pure lives henceforth. More than one came for a personal talk, being very open about their needs and questions and gladly receiving the offered advice and help. The team invited the young people to contact TLW whenever they need advice, encouragement or answers to the many questions they face in today's world.