Let's Shosholoza

Shosholoza By Dan Moyane

After watching Invictus, which was a powerful movie about Nelson Mandela and the patriotic power of the South African national rugby team, I became enamored with this song. Shosholoza is, traditionally, a folk song sung by the miners, but I was really taken by the word and song's meaning. Shosholoza means to strive or to endeavor. In addition, it means "to move ahead". This next year, I take this one word to be my inspiration and guide. I will fervently utter it when I'm scrambling to finish my college applications. I will joyously yell it when I am finally at that graduation podium, ready to accept my diploma, and I will proudly state it when I walk into my college campus, books in hand, ready to start the shosholoza-ing all over again!

In addition, it is my prayer for the world. For man to move past their differences and look forward to harmony and humanity. For governments to aid in the common advancement of all nations. For leaders to move ahead of their prejudices and dogmas so they may judge clearly and without bias. Let the world adopt this slogan, for it encompasses much of the terrors we see around us, the emotions we all feel, and the burdens we, as a race of men, must all bear.