Mean words that people speak into our lives often help us to rise above them. They make us stronger and better and encourage us to succeed.
I have a cousin who had a bit of a mean streak when we were growing up. We bought a TV because she used to tease me for not having one at our house. "When will we have our own TV mama?" I would ask my mom after every taunting session with my cousin. I asked the same after a torrent of comments about not having a home. My mom later told me that her unkind words are what compelled her to buy our first TV and later our house....
Growing up, this question never died down, I just learned to keep it to myself and not to burden others with it. When will it be my turn? Now as I watch things I've wanted for so long come to me as naturally as breathing, I feel like standing on a rooftop and shouting "This is my time! It's finally here!" It's a dumbstruck feeling to realise that your cries in the middle of the night were heard and answered just when I thought I was unworthy.....
Malibongwe igama lakho....
