Tinashe's Story...

Simplicity. One learns to appreciate the simplest of things about ones own child. I learnt to appreciate the fact that my little princess has five little fingers on each hand that from one day were gripping my finger, are now the same ones learning to write. Her broad, innocent smile is enough to let the troubles of the day drift away. No matter how small her actions, I find significance and cherish each moment with her endearingly. 

Happiness. Her melodic laugh resonates in my mind and lets only the emotion of happiness encompass me. At the sight of the joy in her face, I know my role in her life is fulfilled as happiness radiates within her.

Anticipation. Every day I see how you look at me with anticipation that I will make you smile, make you laugh, feed you and fulfil your every whim. Why? Because in your world there is nothing a mother cannot do. The weight of the trust you place in me is barely felt as the weight I once felt when you were in the womb. 

Milestones. I still remember the first moment when my daughter first looked up at me with her big brown eyes and smiled. The highest level of joy brims up within me as I even remember when she first learnt to sit, stand, walk and run. The simplest of things we do as adults become the greatest events of our lives. The appearance of just one tooth, the utterance of just one word, is a milestone that resonates within any parent. My daughter is blessed as her great grandmother is alive and she enjoys talking endlessly to her. Two different generations somehow find common ground in conversation. I learn alot about my daughter when I listen to their conversations, as at just three years ten months, she talks about her observations and views. I also realise that she is aware that her grandmother is much older than her and frail, as from time to time she will hold her hand and slows down her pace when walking with her.

Impeccable.  My daughter is a perfectionist. Ever since she was just a toddler, she would tidy up and wipe any spillage she made or would request for assistance. She believes she has impeccable taste when it comes to clothes and casually changes into three different outfits a day as the weather changes. 

Sacrifice. This word barely describes the depth that one must forfeit ones needs and wants for the benefit of a growing being who is oblivious of all you do for their better good. However, the greatest reward is evident when one sees her level of deep and genuine appreciation.

Overall. By and large, all I do is for Shamiso, my daughter. She breathes energy into me to fulfil my goals in order for me to ignite hers one day. Shamiso is my all, my heart, my soul and everyday with her she teaches me simplicity, shows me true happiness, fills me with anticipation when I see her, lets every moment develop into a milestone, drives me to ensure everything is impeccable for her, to sacrifice selflessly, and that my overall role in life is to make the miracle of her life is felt by all who know her. I am a mother because of Shamiso.