Each of us is a story - it is how we each exist and live. Interwoven within it are our time, place, introductions and endings. Also involved is conflict, perspective, tone, style and atmosphere. Bearing this in mind, the greatest mystery may be the way in which each story is without equal. Every story is individual, remarkable and unusual. 

The third engineer now tells Danie his story while Danie visits his ship in Gqeberha. They each have a cup of coffee. At first the young man's story is full of ambition, explaining the great heights he wishes to achieve. One day he wants to be so and so, including the rest of it. As Danie asks questions, it becomes clear that the work story is only one part of his life.  He also has a story that involves home. This includes antagonism, conflict and joy. The more he tells, the more it becomes clear that the story is set on the deep blue sea, but that the story is by no means simple.  The mere sphere where it takes place implies associated intrigue. It is clear when he explains about being alone. It is clear when he explains the effects on relationships if you spend 10 months at sea. It is also clear when he explains the steel walls of a ship... Jonar's story is full of miracles, desperation, expectations, disappointments and every dramatic effect of a gripping story. Indeed, his story is without equal...

It seems as if we all involve more than a single cut story. Eventually each of us includes thousands of interwoven stories that form us to be something unique and unusual.   

Danie is not only there to listen to Jonar's story. After he unpacked the Bibles in the sparkling clean dining area, there is another story that is closely knitted into their discussion. It is the story of a God that is deeply aware, involved and active in all our lives and He wants to be there. This is a God whose story is interwoven, knitted into the very core of our lives, because He formed us. He put us together. He created us. Jonar finds this realisation extremely valuable. It brings new perspective and hope. He smiles and holds the Tagalog Bible close to his chest when he finally says goodbye.

At the CSO we are involved with and active in the stories of men working at sea. More often than not, the stories are full of sorrow and searching. That is why it is such a privilege for us to remind every person we meet that the Great Storyteller's story forms such an integral part of our own stories and the stories of each of the men.  

Please consider, urgently, to strengthen our hands with a financial contribution. Your contribution will help to rewrite stories each and every day of this year!

But also this - please remember in this year that your own story is unique, remarkable and unusual. We hope that you will also realise, in 2025, that God is aware of, involved and deeply active in your story. This promise is incredibly valuable.

Bank details: Christelike Seemansorganisasie. ABSA. Current. 1520-230-226.