This is a long overdue tribute to my grandmother, Tutu Lenah Ntombizonke Tshangela. She turned 80 in April this year and I wrote this “thank you” piece on 02 Jan 2007. I have no way of thanking her for her contribution in my life, except to follow in her footsteps and serve with an open heart…
Some call her sister, mother, social worker, nurse, nurturer, Lenah and to her grandchildren we affectionately call her “Tutu”. This is my grandmother Lena Ntombizonke “Tutu” Tshangela.
A nurse by profession and a self made social worker. She has opened her heart and home to all those who have been shunned by the world…
She’s a mother of the nation to those who have come into contact with her. She has taken in, including bringing up two of her own. She has opened her door to kids from social welfare, nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, neighbours, orphans, delinquents, strangers, including two of her own children, making us all feel at home and stretching a small meal to feed us all. She always says it’s not about money but just giving off your time and energy, that is the real sacrifice.
She once ran a community clinic from a container, assisting in HIV/ AIDS, condom distribution and sex education to teens and anyone who would listen. She even did home based care – caring for those who are bed ridden from HIV/ AIDS, cancers and or old age. While I was in school I accompanied her but not really understanding where her patience and passion came from? Why does she do it? She loves to serve others…
She’s an active community builder and her hobbies vary from HIV/AIDS, health, housing, elderly, orphans, human rights, reading newspapers, politics and a die hard soccer fan. If there’s anything I ever need to find out from the news and not sure who or what to ask, I ask Tutu, she has a wealth of knowledge. Talk about social intelligence. You can talk to her about anything; she is very open minded as well. She has given me the greatest gift of all, LOVE. Tutu once asked me how I will know he’s the one if I don’t try. These few words have helped me stop being afraid of loving or being hurt and take a leap of faith. She has opened up my heart to possibilities…Summing up my grandmother is impossible…
She was injured in the leg during the 1976 uprisings, yet never have I seen such tenderness, sweetness, humility and a forgiving heart such as hers. Her never say die attitude is breathtaking. Typical of grandmothers, she cooks, bakes, cleans and manages to be a mother to everyone. Nothing is impossible for her. No request too big. She gives tirelessly, willingly and gladly.
She’s taught me not to give away fish but to teach people how to fish as this will sustain them. Kids would come to her asking for money or food, in stead she would ask them to do her garden or take out the garbage and then she would in the mean time cook a lovely home made meal for them.
She is my greatest inspiration; she challenged my way of thinking. We always ask what’s in it for me. She is passionate about everything she puts her mind to. Whether be it cooking, cleaning, baking, taking care of others or reaching out to touch another’ life. She takes everything in her stride with a smile and an open giving heart. Never expects anything in return.
Tutu is a star that has not lost her spark. She’s one of the few people who are fulfilling their God given divine assignment. My grandmother has surely entertained angels in her lifetime.
I am challenged today to find my divine assignment… J
