In the wake of a series of protests, riots and lootings across South Africa and especially in KZN, many of us are trying to make sense of what we saw and experience. Those of us fortunate enough not to be caught in the middle of the unrest juggled misinformation, panic, a limp government response, and the visible and visceral impact on thousands of our compatriots who are already in dire straits.

We've also seen the juxtaposition of extraordinary hope and unity demonstrated as a response to heinous acts of a destructive minority.

How do well-meaning South Africans make sense of all of this? Is this the final straw, or the beginning of a new era? Is it neither? Is it naive or even irresponsible to hope, or has it never been more important to do so?

I explore these and other questions I've wrestled with my dear friend and ex-colleague, futurist and public speaker extraordinaire, Dr Graeme Codrington, in this very personal episode. I trust you'll find some value in our discussions. Connect with Graeme · Graeme's Website · An article I wrote in response to the countrywide upheaval · MikeStopforth.com · Connect with Mike on LinkedIn · Follow Mike on Twitter · 48h crisis communication consultancy