As I identify the African ethnicity, which falls under the Zulu culture, I as well identify as a Christian since I grew up in a household not participating in tradition. I have endogenous teachings I would like to share which I believe in, and which have been a guard towards my life. 

A GIRL SUSTAINING THEMSELVE AND KEEPING THEIR VIRGINITY UNTIL MARRIAGE. 

In nowadays it is a norm for young girls at a very early stage to experience sex. Yes, they get teachings about it at lower grades, they get the curiosity of what it is and how it is done etc. A little earlier on sex was a frightening word and disgusting act or vice versa. We were taught that it was for our elders and we kind of already knew about it being sacred. Hence why we, girls of the Zulu ethnic group were taught to sustain ourselves, we were told about the beauty of waiting, the beauty of embracing our virginity and how a light that was. We are called "IZIMBALI ZEZWE", traditionally they are called to the kings' yards to celebrate their pride. But I, I was told about the power of waiting until marriage, which is believed to be the right time and that God would send that right perfect at his own perfect timing. This does not only keep us away from all the disasters of the outside world like, early unwanted pregnancies, diseases. But it prevents giving one's body to many other bodies, unintentionally obviously. We believe that carrying ourselves with dignity goes along with good fortunes following our way. Again, it is another alternative way of showing respect to our parents and families. 

BEING KIND AND HUMANE TO EVERYONE.

My elders taught me to be kind, not only to rich, fine, privileged looking people but to everyone I come across with. I was taught that a person cannot be minimized, that, that one dirty, surrounded by bad odor person I would act bad upon, or that one crazy man crossing my way asking for the bread I would be holding might be an angel. Mistreating other people is very offensive and brutal according to my beliefs.  My grandmother once taught me that she knew a lady who kept on chasing away a crazy man asking for water. When she finally had decided to offer him water after his refusal of going away, she served him in a dirty unpleasant cup. Only to find out that, that crazy man was an angel in human form that she had mistreated. Our principle is that " DO UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD LIKE THEM TO DO UNTO YOU" which is hard to practice but worth it. Kindness draws kindness towards you, excessive one for that matter, so whether to our parents, or a random little child outside deserve to be respected and served with kindness. I was taught that what if that little kindness that you give is what could have saved the day? I was taught that any elder outside your household is your parent. So should be treated with kindness and respect. 

These practices teach us not only to serve well the outside people but ourselves too. Sometimes it expands our lives, shapes them into good and blossoming blessings themselves. These are one of the teachings I live according to and have witnessed them working for me and other people I look up to.