You were born and raised in a township, but that does not mean you will end up there. Life is a journey. Knowing that you belong in this world, you will one day have to look back at where you come from and make a decision about your future, my child. Every decision you make will shape your future.
The sad part is that no one tells you that you will carry this trauma along the way. You will constantly doubt yourself as you interact with other children from different backgrounds. You will have friends from loving families, wealthy families, and middle-class families. You will question yourself with every decision you make. Most of the doubt will come from wondering how you ended up here, why you are sitting at the same table as them, when they seem so different from you.
Location: Zandspruits Honeydew. Johannesburg
Growing up in this place (the shacks in South Africa), my child, a lot happens. One minute, houses are burned down. Other children do not take school seriously, not because they don’t want to, but because sometimes the environment does not allow it. I truly believe that no human being should have to grow up in such an environment, my child, because it often shapes children in difficult ways.
All I am saying is that the world is big enough for you. It will not be easy to settle in. It will not be easy to find your true self. It will require courage. You will need to face your past face-to-face so that it does not haunt you.
Please make it a priority to get yourself a therapist. You will need that shoulder to cry on, and it will change your life for the better. Get yourself a life coach and a mentor as well. You will need guidance, my child.
At varsity, you may look like other students, but never be easily influenced just because you feel like you do not have a voice. Days will not always be the same. Some days you will feel unseen and unheard, but never make rushed decisions based on your current feelings. Always pause and think before making a decision. Give yourself permission to think and reflect. Check in with yourself and ask whether that decision truly resonates with you.
You will date and you may be in relationships. Oh, my darling daughter, my wish for you is that you love yourself first. Always know that you are enough just as you are, and any man you date will be lucky to have you in his life. Love deeply, my baby, but understand that people are allowed to leave relationships when they no longer serve them. People are allowed to say when they are no longer in love. Allow people to come and go in your life.
You are also allowed to express your feelings without fearing that people will pack their things and leave. If they do, know that they were never meant to stay, baby. Do not punish yourself. Do not judge yourself. Always be kind to yourself. You matter, and you are enough, no matter what happens.
You know, Ajuwela, my child, you are smart, and I want you to know that you are enough, you are worthy. From time to time, you will feel the need for validation, and you may find yourself wanting others to approve of your decisions. All I can say is this: trust God. Listen to your inner voice and trust your gut feelings.
No one truly has it all together; everyone is simply doing their best to make it through. You are enough and you are worthy. Never think less of yourself, and never give up on your personal growth.
I love you.
Unknown- Mother-
#doingitforthesoul
#theimperfectbutperfectlifeofamother
Zamas-Journey 