I remember one day when I was much younger, my Dad came home a little early from work.

Shortly after settling down, he called us to the dining room as a family. As I sat down, I had an unusual feeling about the meeting, but my Dad was as cool as a cucumber!

He put an envelope on the table and pulled out a letter which he asked us to read carefully. After we read the letter, this is what he said;

“It’s okay, it’s okay”

My Dad had been retrenched from employment, but he said it was okay… Twice in one sentence…

I recall a letter he once wrote to me when I was at boarding school where he said;

“ I have sent you a box of fresh fruit and some carrots from the garden, to remind you of home and that we want to share these delights with you even when you are away. I promise that I will always find a way to to get the best that I can to you”.

To date, my Mum and Dad send me something home grown when they can and I am grateful. It comes from the purest of hearts.

The third thing I would like to share is how my father fought what he perceived as injustice. He gave it his all and stood by fact and principle, never afraid of being unpopular for being clear and seeking clarity.

I trace my tracks back to those times alluded to above and share the following life lessons:

1. The “first okay” you say, is to yourself, assuring yourself that you will pull through a seemingly difficult situation. With that resolve, the “second okay” is to your team, assuring them that if it stays together and members are there for each other, the team can overcome challenges.

2. Authenticity which draws from our roots that grow our souls and sense of belonging, is an important aspect of life. We are who we are because we can connect with ourselves and others without fear of being judged by those who have little or no understanding of us.

3. Having a sense of equity and fairness is a keepsake. It inspires courage to do your part in preserving what is right whether for self or others. You are driven by more than what is visible to the naked eye. Win and celebrate victory and when you encounter loss, embrace it with honour, knowing that you did your utmost best.

Isn’t it energizing and reviving to know where your strengths actually originate?

I have learned to give credit where it is due! May my parents receive their flowers.