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Recently, a friend of mine shared a legal document with me that he described as an effort to “correct the wrongs” of his late father. In what he believed was a wise decision, his father had made him the sole beneficiary in his will, leaving the family home, savings, and all material possessions solely to […]

My colleague Mapi invited Bhekisisa Mncube to write a follow up to the column he wrote earlier this year, giving the backstory and the post-burial trauma the family has suffered. “Some deaths aren’t worth any tears,” wrote Bhekisisa when announcing his father’s passing. He noted that his father was “dying for the second time”. Yes, over

“These days are long but years are short.” – Gretchen Rubin   This week, I experienced a lightbulb moment. Despite the familiar chaos of Johannesburg traffic that greets me every morning and night, I realised I am generally in a happy space. As the hours merge into a stop-and-go routine, frustration can easily build. But

What questions come up for you about end-of-life situation? I am sharing two of the questions that landed in my inbox in the last week. Question One: What do I need to do to ensure that my chosen, not-biologically related, representative will be recognised to liaise with the hospital in the event of my death?

Our flight approaches Johannesburg. The clear sunny winter sky becomes hazy, and then as we circle ready to land at OR Tambo I see the city through its dusky veil of smoke. Winter is always worse than summer. Our city has a kind of industrial metallic smell. When I’ve been away to the bush or

For several months, Helena Dolny and I have embarked on a journey of exploration and reflection, delving into what it truly means to live by design. Together, we have crafted pieces that examine the importance of intentional living in every aspect of our lives – from daily choices that shape our moments with loved ones

Sunday, 28 July 2024, is South Africa’s day to celebrate grandparents – so I am informed by the SPAR Digital magazine that pops up in my email inbox. Grandparents’ Day: I did not know there was one. I am curious. I discovered many countries have National Grandparents’ Day, but no international date exists. Mexico chose

Helena Dolny and I co-founded Love Legacy Dignity (LLD) in 2019 with an agreement that she would lead, and I would support for the first five years. In early 2023 we further agreed that 29 February 2024, the end of the financial year, would be the day of the official handover. Helena has dedicated thousands

A minibus full of primary school children. Imagine the energy and noise levels as they chat, laugh and/or quarrel as they ride to school. A bakkie hits their vehicle from behind. The minibus overturns and bursts into flames. The driver and 12 of the children die. Condolences are sent to the families. People try to

In a delicate dance between enduring grief and historical preservation, earlier this year, I embarked on a poignant journey to weave together the untold stories of the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976. Through the lens of lesser-known relatives of the 43 children whose tragic demise catalysed one of the most pivotal protests in the