What Father’s Day means to me: A son tells his father’s story
"I have never seen him lose his temper and I wish I could learn his ability to manage anger, he is a natural peacemaker who has the ability to forgive but does not suffer fools gladly."
Raymond Nxumalo shares with us the history of his father Samuel Jabulani Nxumalo who he says is the epitome of a good father and the true embodiment of his name.
He is a kind, down to earth gentleman who is a father to three daughters and four sons.
Son of Cleopas and Alexander, he was christened Samuel because the parents prayed long and hard for him and vowed to bring the child to the Lord’s temple.
Known around Meadowlands as Uncle Sam, Ntate Nxumalo made his name in the taxi industry but found comfort as a pastor at his church, which is used by the local MDN taxi association to hold their meetings.
Until age and ill health slowed him down. His pastoral duties was always to lead the association with prayers and guidance to find peace. He was one of the founder members of MDN in the 60s.
Nxumalo has lived in Ndofaya since 1956 when families were forcefully removed from Sophiatown.
“One thing I like the most about my dad is his soft hands,” said Nxumalo the last born. “My father also has a gentleness that humbles many.
“I have never seen him lose his temper and I wish I could learn his ability to manage anger, he is a natural peacemaker who has the ability to forgive but does not suffer fools gladly,” said his son Raymond.
He is blessed with a sharp memory and never forgets easily too. I’m proud of him for being a great father to all of us and especially being a good husband to my mother..”
The Nxumalo family will be celebrating 60 year wedding anniversary in July.
“I’m eternally grateful that Dad took some of his own money to build a church where the community has been able to host events like weddings, funerals and other sociable gatherings. This Church has become a shelter for Rough Diamonds where kids can come for after care and homework. In a way he is helping the youth to stay away from the dangerous township streets and it’s many nefarious temptations.
One special thing Ntate Nxumalo has done was help many drivers get their driving licenses. “Many of them are able to hold jobs in the taxi industry, the BRT as well as tourism and flim industry. They can look after their families,” says Ntate Nxumalo
