In Praise Of The Real Heroes

I AM daily amazed at the strength and versatility of a woman. At the village level, we have all seen how our mothers go about inundated with chores in the field and working hard to meet the needs of the extended family.

It is true that our fathers too play a significant role in our upbringing and our lives. However, I have decided to write this letter to give praise to the women whom I regard as true silent heroes for the following reasons: A young lady who finds employment in Windhoek will do everything to assist her family. For example, she would save up to buy a house or rent one so that her siblings can go to school. She would pay for them all no matter how meagre her salary might be. On top of that she would send money to the village and help out the extended family. Despite the pressure of modern or urban dwellings, she will always be there for the family.In Hochland Park, a modern wife maintains a professional job and runs a family. It is here where the versatility of a woman becomes quite evident. I often observe with great admiration how such a person balances her professional life and home life. She has time for laundry, she makes time for the kitchen, she makes time for the children, family and husband and still finds adequate time for her studies and work. With a smile and fortitude, she personifies the strength of a woman.In Katutura, I see an older woman who at times doubles as a domestic worker in Ludwigsdorf and also sells goods to make ends meet. Above all she does this so that she can pay for the education of her children. One is at primary school, another one at high school and another one at an institution of higher learning. She has worked all her life for the hope of her family and the future of her children. Today, when one sees her face, she smiles and beams with expectation because the child is about to finish college. The child is also a girl, and one who has carried herself responsibly knowing the sacrifices her mother has made towards the education at college.In the house of Parliament, I see a woman of character and intellect and above all of radiant militancy. Back at the house, she is the head of the family, the extended family, she does so in humility. I see her at the village tilling the land when Parliament is not in session. She teaches the lessons of life to her children and the neighbouring children who look up to her as a mother and role model. She leads an upright life and works hard to instil the same in others especially young women.In the popular industry, I see a woman, a white woman, in charge of a business with many people under her. Yet she has a family too to keep and she is looked at to provide guidance in her community. She tells her family about the life of Katutura to those not accustomed to it. She has the possibility of building bridges between the races. Above all, she encourages the younger generation to avoid the pitfalls of yesteryear but work together for a better tomorrow through sport, education and community outreach in the spirit of national reconciliation.In summary, all the scenarios above exemplify the dynamism of women. In all seasons of life, they stand firm in the interest of their families. They are with us either as mothers, sisters, wives or girlfriends. In my opinion, of all the heroes we praise every day, women are the real modern heroes in our lives.Elijah NgurareWindhoek