When a child is born into an ethnic group, it is anticipated for that child to practice the same things that they are exposed to within that particular group. For example, following same religion, beliefs, and “norms”. Being born into the Pedi culture has somewhat shaped the type of individual I panned out to be. My elders are my main source of knowledge about my culture. There are numerous teachings I have received but two in particular stand out.

Acknowledging God as well as my ancestors.

Growing up I was never exposed to anything either than Christianity and African spirituality. Therefore, that is the route I took throughout my life up until now. My mother would always stress the importance of having God in our lives, understanding the power of prayer as well as inviting him in every journey we choose to embark on. She had a rule about not wanting to go to church. She would lock the house and leave you outside for the duration of the service, and you’d only be allowed access into the house once everyone was back from church. To avoid being locked out, I would make it a point to wake up every Sunday and go to church. I have the freedom now, but still feel the need to obey her. Through these teachings I now understand how crucial it is to pray before doing anything, be it prior to taking an examination, a meal or sleeping. My ethnic group takes pride in acknowledging ancestors. It is believed that your ancestors are your guardian angels that serve as intermediaries between yourself and God. It is also believed that they offer protection, stability, and a lot more, therefore if you fail to do right by them or turn your back on them then they will leave you to suffer. I have come to understand that it not about praising them but merely about acknowledging and respecting them. I now know that I need to consult “phahla” and thank my ancestors when they have done good for me.

Respect and submission.

In the Pedi culture it is believed that a woman kneel down when serving her husband as a sign of respect and submission. Before my father can have a meal, my mother prepares warm water with soap in a small basin and a dry dishcloth for him to wash and dry his hands. She then dishes up and places the food on a tray with all the necessary cutlery then gives my father his food, of course not forgetting to go down on both her knees to show her husband that she respects him. Having grown up in that kind of setting has now taught me to serve my father with respect whenever my mom is unavailable. As much as my father and I have a playful and fun father and daughter relationship, I am still expected to go on my knees when offering him a small basin with water to wash his hands prior to eating.