Sibu Kgopong

Sibu Kgopong

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross said it was only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth and we have no way of knowing when our time is up that we begin to live each day to the fullest as if it was the only one we have.

Sad but awe-inspiring, Mandla "Smash" Mahlangu's 25 years on planet earth epitomised the courage to face life with gusto and strength of mind. Mahlangu's life was a gift with every moment of his adult life, a life pregnant with immense possibilities.

Towards the end of his fulfilled life, he spent each moment exploring untapped avenues that allowed him to access something more precious than silver, gold, pearls and jewels.

For all who crossed his path, Mahlangu remains in our hearts and minds as the effervescent candle in the wind.

My love, you lived your life one moment at a time. It is tragic, though, that your baby boy who is kicking in my tummy will be ushered into this world in three-and-a-half weeks' time without being accorded the freedom that we fought for as a nation, to suckle pearls of wisdom from his father who became a victim of South Africa's road carnage.

Aptly named Onkarabetse, your unborn baby boy's life willll spring out of a fabulous well, a treasure house of richness and kindness.

Mahlangu, who was born on January 5 1983, is survived by his parents, two brothers and a sister, a son, Wandile and another unborn son Onkarabetse.

The funeral procession starts at 8am at the NG Church in Doornpoort tomorrow before proceeding to the Nina Park Cemetery.