By REGINALD KANYANE
A centenarian, Julia Mamorwadi Mocumi celebrated her 100th birthday with style along with her circle of family and friends at her home in Magogoe Khoi-Khoi village, outside Mahikeng in North West on Saturday.
The elegant Julia was in a jovial mood as she danced with the aiding stick into her hand to keep balance. It seems Julia has a ‘special bond’ with almost everyone within the community because she was cheered up by the young and old.
“I am happy today that I am celebrating 100 years. This is actually 100 years of God’s grace and I will always appreciate it. However, I am too old now and I am ready to leave this world because I believe I have played my part.
“I want to send my gratitude to God and say thank you to my children, who made this possible. There is no special recipe to live longer and I just want to tell the young generation to stop indulging in alcohol and look after themselves,” she said.
Julia also encourages people to eat healthily and stop using a lot of spice in everything. She only has two biological children, but only left with one after the death of her firstborn.
“I was devastated when I lost my husband because of death, but I managed. If you have a good heart as a person, God will continue to bless and protect you. So, thank you to everyone who came through to celebrate this milestone with me,” said Julia.
Rekgonyane Mocumi (73), who is Julia’s only biological child alive said, he learned a lot from his mother. Rekgonyane said, they originate from the West of Johannesburg, Kagiso Township in Krugersdorp, but moved to Mahikeng during Soweto Uprising.
“I am a responsible man because I was raised by this queen. She showed pedigree and is also loved by many,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sandra Mocumi (60), who is one of Julia’s grandchildren shared the same sentiments. Sandra said her granny is the humblest person she ever came across.
“My granny does not like going out in the streets. She is also still strong physically and does not have chronic diseases. Imagine at my age, I am using medication for chronic disease, but my granny does not.
“She can still bathe, takes herself to the toilet, which is outside, and makes tea for herself without any assistance. Indeed, we are truly blessed to have her as a granny. She also encouraged us not to drink alcohol and sometimes we will joke with her and gives her some alcohol, however, she will resist after finding out that indeed is alcohol,” Sandra said.
Picture: Julia Mocumi celebrates 100 years/Mpho Bilwane
The Guardian 