03/11/2026
You went to university.
I went to thwasa.
You chose your career.
Mine chose me.
You bought books and paid tuition.
I bought candles, impepho, and herbs.
You studied theory and wrote exams.
I wrestled with ancestors in dreams.
You called your lecturers “Doctor.”
I called mine “Gobela.”
Your graduation came with applause.
Mine came with drums and tears.
You got your certificate framed.
I got my beads tied and my spirit named.
Your journey promised comfort.
Mine promised surrender.
You chased a salary.
I chased healing - even when it broke me first.
Your parents were proud.
Mine were confused… until they saw me stand strong in red.
You went to the city to find yourself.
I went into the forest to lose myself - and find something greater.
You have colleagues.
I have ancestors.
You have a job.
I have a calling.
We both studied.
We both changed.
But only one of us came back reborn.
I dedicate this to every ithwasa, gobela, and healer who walked through fire and didn’t burn - who faced madness and found meaning, who carry light where others fear to look.
Ndawuwe 🥁📿👏🙏🌞💃
By king mafela ndawe ❤️
