Gogo gives a golden lesson
In the space of about 18 months, Phetheni amassed no less than 42 tons of recyclable glass
JOBLESSNESS is arguably the greatest curse of our society.
Many go to sleep and wake up with empty bellies, and must listen to the cries of hungry children.
They feel frustrated, angry and even guilty about not being able to provide sustenance for their offspring.
Most join the queues for grant monies, while others beg at street corners.
A growing number resort to crime, justifying their need to steal in order to stay alive.
Blame is attached to government and business for their failure to address the problem of unemployment, and to family and friends for not being sympathetic.
A small few accept that ‘it is what it is’, and do something to change their situation.
eSikhaleni pensioner Phetheni Sibiya (73) is one of those.
As described in our most recent edition, this grand old gogo began the simple task of collecting empty bottles, which she herself crushed and filled into bags for sale to Consol Glass.
In the space of about 18 months, Phetheni amassed no less than 42 tons of recyclable glass.
Not only was she building up a sizeable nest egg, she was also ridding her community of unwanted, unsightly and dangerous rubble.
And in a wonderful serendipity, her focus on the job that needed doing, did wonders for her personal health.
From pushing a wheelbarrow all day, her fitness improved dramatically: health and wealth are hers to enjoy in retirement.
She also relished the opportunity to meet new friends along the way.
This is not so much a story about collecting glass bottles as it is one of tackling adversity.
It’s a message in hard work and perseverance; in refusing to accept defeat; in not becoming a liability to others or the State; in showing the world what can be done if the will is there, and is backed by action.
This senior citizen is a living lesson to the lazy and the disheartened: the future is ultimately in your own hands.
