Today, on my way back to the farm, I picked up a familiar figure in the area, bent over and hobbling slowly up the dusty sand road. His name is Madala Paul. As you may well know, I love talking to people and hearing their stories. Well in a matter of 10 minutes, I almost got Madala Paul’s whole life story 🙂 Paul has lived on the next door neighbour’s farm for 48 years. His is a rugged 79 years old who originally comes from Rustenburg and was very proud to tell me that he is “big now”, meaning old. He has worked for Mr Richard since 1967 and lost his dear wife 2 years ago. He never said ‘she died’. In his words… ” its been 2 years since she was put in the ground”. During our conversation he recited and remembered exact dates and even days. He told me that his wife died on a Monday and it was the 11 March 2013. (Flip, I cant even remember my childrens’ year of birth sometimes!!) Madala Paul has 3 children and 2 grandchildren who live in Dobsonville. He was at pains to tell me that his oldest child could not have children which was very sad for her and the family. I asked him if he thinks he has had a good life. His reply… “yes mam, its been a good life”.
How often do we take the time to just chat to total strangers and hear their stories? Not often, but when we do, its always an enlightening time. Madala Paul, may you have a healthy longer life.