It’s a rainy and cold early morning.  It’s still dawn, and by six o’clock, I have to catch a bus to my grandparents’ house on the deep side of KwaZulu-Natal. By 5:45, my auntie had accompanied me to the bus stop. Our goodbyes were not so good because her last words were mainly about the passing of my parents due to the fatal car crash that claimed their lives.

She advised me about how I should live and carry myself in the rurals as well as being caring and respectful to my grandparents. It was going to be a long journey; I said to myself as I climbed up the bus and got in. Luckily, I found a vacant space next to a boy my age. I was very happy because I knew I had found a friend to talk to.

He smiled at me as I sat next to him, and in a wide smile, I greeted him with a handshake. As soon as I sat down, the boy faced me and introduced himself to me. I’m Ndumiso Zulu from KwaZulu Natal but I was visiting my relatives here in Johannesburg.

Okay, nice, I am Sibusiso Mbhele from Soweto, a place here in Johannesburg, but I’m relocating to KwaZulu Natal now. Ndumiso noticed the sadness on my face as I introduced myself. He then kindly begged for me to tell him my reason for relocating.

Indeed, I shared my woe story. Ndumiso was very saddened by my loss. He then reached for his pocket and gave me a lollipop together with a soft and kind pat on my shoulder. Instantly, I felt his love and care. I’m very sorry, my friend, he said. I hope and pray that you will adapt easily and quickly to rural life. Actually, I wish you were going to my area so that I could show you some ropes.

Speaking of an area, Ndumiso, where do you live? I’m from Ulundi, he answered.  Cheerfully, I opened my eyes wide and told him that I was going to Ulundi too. Together, they stood up in joy and made a happy dance. Ndumiso and Sibusiso got off and still took one taxi. As electrified as they were, they even exchanged their luggage.

They both didn’t believe they were going to be neighbors. Both the young ones arrived at their homes. The welcome was joyous and warm, especially for Sibusiso, the new one from the city. He also told them about a friend he got on the bus. The family was very delighted to know that someone was already going to distract and help him.

Sibusiso started learning a new life. It was not easy, but he remembered his auntie’s advice.  He went out with Ndumiso every time he went for cow tendering. He did his best to adapt and learn new things because this was his home now. His grandparents were pleased with the way he handled the whole situation.

This was written by our contributing writer, Duet Mlotshwa.