Eulogy for Grandfather

Mkhulu, [Name], was a quiet giant. He did not need to raise his voice to command respect; one look, one nod, and we knew exactly where we stood. But behind that steady face was a man who loved deeply and laughed easily once you got him going.

He lived through more than most of us can imagine, and he carried his history with dignity. He worked hard his whole life so that his children and grandchildren could have the chances he never had. Every one of us standing here is a piece of his dream come true.

He taught us patience. He taught us respect — for our elders, for ourselves, for the land and the people on it. "Take your time and do it well," he would say, and he was almost always right.

Mkhulu, you planted trees whose shade you knew you might never sit under, and here we all are, sitting in that shade today. Rest well, old man. We are proud to be yours. Lala ngoxolo, Mkhulu.