An African mother has the essence of heroism, as her remarkable strength lies in her ability to multiply the resources at her disposal. Through her determination, she transforms the little provisions into sustenance and support for her family. She exemplifies resilience and fortitude through her unmatched inner strength.
Reflecting on the profound impact of the women often overlooked, the mothers who embraced parenthood with grace, providing, nurturing, protecting, and sustenaining for their children. Despite the absence of visible tears, they carry their burdens quietly, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.
Driven by a profound sense of purpose, she rises at dawn to procure vegetables and tomatoes for resale on the street corner, all in the pursuit of feeding and educating her children. Stationed in that same spot for years, she tirelessly ensures her children receive an education, with some even attending boarding schools. Her efforts are solely her own, yet never once has she voiced a complaint. Like a steadfast clock, she persists through each day with unwavering determination.
This resilient woman shoulders the weight of her responsibilities, bearing a heavy load on her shoulders with an unparalleled commitment to sacrifice. When encountering an African mother at rest, it is imperative to afford her the opportunity for respite, as such moments are a rarity for her. Her mind is a constant whirlwind, ceaselessly strategizing ways to provide sustenance for her family. Resourceful and ingenious, she possesses the remarkable ability to multiply scant resources, transforming scarcity into abundance.
Extend kindness to the mothers we left behind. If your path intersects with that mother selling on the corner, take a moment to listen to her story, often colored by profound sorrow. Sometimes, she bleeds inwardly, yet never lets it spill out; she has mastered the art of suppressing her troubles with sheer strength, steadfastly refusing to reveal vulnerability. Imagine if she was your own mother.
Through the mother’s hardwork, the daughter has become a doctor, and the son, a lawyer, both accomplishments realised through their mother’s tireless efforts. While she anticipated a period of rest upon achieving her goal and ensuring her children’s education, the reality falls short. The children’s support is confined to Christmas gifts, and the only assistance she receives throughout the year comes in the form of holiday groceries. Their brief visits, marked by explanations of work-related busyness, conclude with their departure to the city for yet another year.
The mother, who ensured their education, remains an invisible presence, seated at that same corner still selling vegetables, this time looking after the grand children, for her, the struggle continues.
The children express that their mother enjoys selling vegetables, promising to purchase more and expand her stock to boost her income. However, the weary mother yearns for rest, her fatigue palpable amidst the daily grind.
Let us always remember: our mothers deserve rest, a reprieve from the burdens they tirelessly carry. Let us ease their load, providing comfort and support to lighten the weight they bear. It is crucial to remain connected to our roots, ensuring that our mothers are not overlooked but instead made visible and appreciated.
They are the guiding lights of society, steadfastly shouldering the burdens of their children and shielding them from fears unknown. In their quiet strength and selfless love, they are the unsung heroes, the true saviors.
