Lessons from Ambuya (My Grandmother)

Growing up, my grandmother played a vital role in shaping the woman I have become today. Her influence on me was profound, and her presence in my life left an indelible mark on my character. She was a truly remarkable woman, exemplifying kindness, patience, and a steadfast ability to remain calm in any situation.

One of the aspects that made my grandmother’s guidance so unique and memorable was her use of Shona proverbs, known as “tsumo” in our language. These proverbs not only conveyed wisdom and life lessons, but they also served as a tool for correction and guidance. Through the use of tsumo, my grandmother would impart valuable moral and cultural teachings, helping me navigate life’s challenges with grace and introspection.

Each proverb she shared with me carried its own distinct meaning and imparted knowledge about our culture, traditions, and values. One of the proverbs that greatly resonated with me throughout the years is Ndamba kuudzwa akaonekwa ne mbonje pahuma, meaning “Those who refuse to consider good advice are often left with the scars of regret.” With this proverb she emphasised the importance of heeding to the wisdom of others and that good advice should never be taken for granted. As simple as it sounds It encourages us to be open to learning from others, to value their experiences, and to consider their counsel. By doing so, we can avoid unnecessary pitfalls and hardships that may arise from our own stubbornness or arrogance.

As Ambuya embodied kindness, she consistently reminded us to treat others the same. She used to say Natsa kwavabva kwaunoenda husiku directly translated “Be good to everyone and most importantly your roots and you never know what is ahead of you and when you will need help from others”. This ancient proverb carries a profound message about the importance of treating others with kindness, even when we are moving away or embarking on new journeys. It reminds us that our actions and intentions can have a lasting impact on the lives of those we leave behind. The metaphorical interpretation of “it is night where you are going” highlights the unknown and uncertain nature of the future. It implies that we should approach our departure with compassion and empathy, as we may not fully understand the challenges and hardships that await us in unfamiliar territories. Let this proverb serve as a gentle reminder to always be mindful of the impact we have on others, even as we move forward on our own path. In this way, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and leave behind a positive legacy that transcends time and distance.

In the spirit of collaboration and partnership, Ambuya strongly believed in the African proverb Rume rimwe harikombi churu, translated “A single person, no matter how big, does not encircle an anthill alone”. This powerful saying encapsulates the essence of unity and emphasizes the idea that strength lies in togetherness. She firmly believed that when people come together as a team, they can achieve greatness and overcome any obstacle. Ambuya always reminded us that true progress is not achieved by individuals working in isolation but by forging connections, building relationships, and appreciating the value that each person brings to the table.

Through her use of Shona proverbs and her gentle guidance, she imparted valuable life lessons that continue to shape my actions and decisions to this day. Even when I made mistakes, ambuya had a remarkable way of correcting me with love and understanding. Her gentle guidance and unwavering support fostered an environment where growth and learning flourished. My grandmother’s legacy lives on in my heart, serving as a constant reminder to embrace kindness, patience, and a steadfast spirit in all aspects of life.