What started with my admiration for the heroic 9/11 dogs Roselle and Salty—their bravery, loyalty, and companionship—has, in recent days, evolved into a desire to learn more about that day. This curiosity has become evident across my Facebook feed and has even influenced my YouTube recommendations. For the first time in my life, I’ve felt […]
Earlier this year, I wrote about recommitting to walking in 2025. I’m happy to announce (with a proud smile) that I’ve kept that promise. More than that, I didn’t let the fact that the year is already nearing its end discourage me from starting. Alongside the joy of keeping my word, however, comes the honesty
On Hilly Roads and Bob Marley Read More »
One unassuming day—whose exact date has escaped my mind, though the month was unforgettably January 2020 (memorable because Singapore had just announced its first COVID-19 case)—taught me two lessons I’ll never forget: First, that we can entertain angels without knowing it. Second, that working toward becoming a good person who relates well with others is
Of My Dad’s Quiet Legacy Read More »
A few months ago, I read a devotional penned by a woman whose husband had been delivered from alcoholism. Unfortunately, he did not survive the endocarditis that afflicted him not long after. What stayed with me was her quiet observation: “Some things remain a mystery in this life.” I write following the heartbreaking news of
Of Earthside Mysteries Read More »
After meeting a potential suitor, 30-year-old South African Olorato Mongale never returned home. Her life was needlessly cut short on Africa Day. A CCTV image shared on social media shows her leaving for the date in broad daylight. She had informed her friend and, as some noted, was “dressed decently.” These are safety precautions women
It’s a Big Ask, But We All Have to Be On Board Read More »
I first discovered Mpoomy Ledwaba on YouTube around 2018 or 2019. Even then, she radiated that grounded “big sister” energy — wise, accomplished, and unapologetically herself. Fast forward a few years, and she’s evolved into so much more: a published author, sought-after speaker, and host of The Wisdom & Wellness Podcast — one of the
Sis, You’ll Want to Press Play Read More »
The undeniable significance of names as a fundamental part of our identity truly struck me during a university lecture. My classmates and I eagerly answered a question about ourselves, skipping over the simplest detail—our names—until the lecturer pointed it out. Reflecting on that moment, I’ve come to understand why some individuals choose to legally change
Living Up to the Names We Carry Read More »
Seated among some unfamiliar older people—men in suit jackets and women with doeks covering their heads—I found myself in a sitting room stripped of its familiar arrangement. Gone were the sofas, the TV, the coffee table, and the Victorian-style ceramic figurines that once decorated the space. Taking their place was a pure white wooden casket,
Death and Its Lingering Questions Read More »
Years ago, I wrote—very matter-of-factly—on a placard meant to safeguard my snacks, that whoever dared to eat my stuff would be castrated. Caution was intended to deter my younger brothers. If you have younger siblings, you’ll understand, I hope. I did not know the meaning of the word. But the shock-horror-clutch-your-pearls expressions displayed on both
Linguistic Misadventures, Autocorrect Disasters, and Lessons Learnt Read More »
Almost three decades ago, I was born on a Tuesday. Last week marked the fifth time my birthday has fallen on a Tuesday since then. Ironically, this year also marks five years since I last worked. After much effort securing the role, I began my first job the day after my birthday, six years ago.
Bittersweet Birthday Blues Read More »