Reflections after Women’s Month

I’m a young man and last month, during Women’s Month, I decided to give my mother and sisters a rest. I cooked supper every night, from chicken and beef stews to mince and lamb. Several of the recipes I found in my YOU magazines made it look as if I knew what I was doing!

Secondly, I babysat my siblings and cousins. It felt as if I was running a daycare! I’d wake up in the morning, make breakfast for them, make sure they were bathed, spend time playing with them, then make lunch for them.

Here’s the biggest shock: I actually enjoyed both of these roles.

I now look forward to cooking every night. Even opening the freezer to decide what meat to cook is a thrilling experience for me.

As for the kids, I loved looking after them, taking them to parks and telling them stories. I’ve realised that maybe there’s hope I can actually be a good father one day.

I can’t deny though that it’s hard work, and I admire the strength of women. They make it all look so easy. KK BULUNGA, PRETORIA

In April I lost the love of my life in a tragic car accident. We’d been married for one year, five months and one day. This was the day my world came to a complete and devastating end. Had it not been for my mother, sisters, nieces and friends, I wouldn’t be where I am four months later.

I want to salute and thank these courageous women who’ve walked with me second by second, minute by minute, hour by hour. Through my journey they held my hand, wiped the tears, encouraged me and prayed with me. They understood when I didn’t and answered when I couldn’t.

There were days when I couldn’t stand and they stood for me. There were days when I screamed at life and they promised it would get better.

They continue to listen no matter what and hold me when I don’t want to be held. If it weren’t for these women of strength, women of worth, I wouldn’t have come to the place I find myself right now.

I love you all, my beautiful bouquet of flowers. CARMEL DAVIDS, BELHAR