South Sudan. It was real. It’s hard to say that little, harder to attempt an honest telling of our journey.

That week was epic. Excitement was in the air – literally flags fluttered from atop trees, mountains, pickups and people, there was celebratory honking, singing, fireworks and gunfire. It was a beautiful experience to behold.

And then you were forced to reckon with what South Sudan is, barely a nation. Less than 5% graduate from primary school. Tribalism rules; the government is weak. There is little to unite the people, many do not speak a common language.

A few people seemed violent. It’s hard to explain. You just got that sense. You would look at them and they would look back at you stone cold without expression or acknowledgment. It was like a poker face but probably more aptly described as a 50 year civil war face.

In South Sudan, you see how far we’ve come. You see what it means to be a nation. And how very important that struggle is, to do the necessary maintenance, that we remain one people, indivisible.

few roads in South Sudan are paved

it's a landscape of desert and verdant flood plains

UN helicopters ply the skies

there was sometimes a roughness in their character, a palpable violent edge

but others were extremely friendly

everywhere flags

more flags on cars per capita than anywhere else on earth

landmines! how exciting!

rolling into Juba - a paved road! rejoice!

independence was an occasion - excitement radiated

at South Sudan's first soccer game

South Sudan lost to Kenya's Tuskers, but it was a good showing

roadside stop. unlike most African shops, this one sold Pepsi!

everyone has to get their cell phone on

the dirt tracks were a joy to ride one

joyful youth; there is hope

I told the security guard we had bicycled up from South Africa. Ah! South Africa! You must have faced many challenges. Yes, we have faced many challenges. I then congratulated him on his nation’s independence. Yes today is a great day. We were up in those hills when the Sudanese army came. It was a big battle. Oh. You have faced many challenges too. Yes we have faced many challenges.

Welcome to South Sudan, the world’s newest nation, where the soldiers at check points have not only assault rifles and cammo but also decorative scars. There is a genuine palpable excitement. More waving flags per square car than anywhere else on earth. Here’s a few quick couple photos of the first national football game, South Sudan vs Kenya. Unfortunately South Sudan lost, 1-3, but it was yet a good showing.

there was no admission fee - crowds gathered atop the stadium walls

a packed patriotic crowd

watching the game

for South Sudan!

Kenyan national team

South Sudan's flag

they thought I was media; I got on the field

the coaches

South Sudan national team

new friend Pilgrim with number 2

end of the game media frenzy

offical team portraits

In Juba, South Sudan, the pastor kindly let us stay in this classroom. But we had to be up early – it was in use by 8am for Sunday School! The Church plays a big role in developing nations. In large towns the compound may contain a small seminary, guest house, kitchen and conference facilities. Many schools and clinics are also run through churches.

All Saints Cathedral

School room we slept in

the interior - sleeping mats were placed by the table

the cathedral

friendly kids

future of the world's newest nation

the cathedral's fence! with signs!