I Miss the Good Old Days- By Dr.Ted Msipa

Recently, my lovely wife, Rev. Patience Msipa, affectionately known as Patiee, received a call that lit up her day. On the other end of the line were her childhood friends—Betty, Noma, and Lifa. The four big girls, as they liked to call themselves, were reminiscing about the good old days. It was a joy to see Patiee light up with excitement, giggling and jumping like a teenager as they exchanged stories and laughter over the phone.

Watching her that day transported me back in time, down memory lane, to the days of our youth. Oh, how far we have come as a people! Life back then was so pure, so simple. We were all forced to be creative in our quest for love. We became poets, weaving sonnets and ballads, trying to capture hearts with flowery language. Those who mastered the Queen’s English held the upper hand, often topping the “log of love.”

Back then, even the postman was a celebrated figure. His tinkling bell would ignite both anxiety and excitement, especially for bachelors like me, living far from the love of their lives. I was based in Gweru, a bustling city in the heart of the Midlands, while my sweetheart lived in Bulawayo—fondly known as the City of Kings or Ko Thothu Ziyatung'a.

Every second Friday was a sacred tradition. I would eagerly make my way to Bulawayo, anticipation building as the kilometers melted away. Upon arrival, I would link up with my right-hand man, Timothy Moyo from Njube. Together, we would make a quick stop to greet my pastor, Moffat Ndhlovu, before heading off on our double dates. Timothy always had his Dudu by his side, while I had my Patiee. Those double picnics were a slice of heaven.

Little did we know then what the future held for all of us. Who could have predicted that Noma would become a business tycoon, or that Lifa would rise to international prominence in the world of business? Betty pursued her calling as a medical surgeon overseas, while Patiee grew into a Founding Pastor and Visionary leader and Seer besides being an Author, inspiring many. As for me, by the grace of God, I have become a household name as a Leadership Strategist and Executive Coach, known for helping leaders navigate their paths with wisdom and vision. In addition, I have been blessed to wear many hats—a triple doctorate holder, a prolific author, and a trusted consultant to organizations seeking transformation.

Yet, as life has magnified us, I have come to appreciate a profound truth: there is power in treating people right. Those who treated us with honor and kindness in the days when we had little to offer are now direct beneficiaries of our magnified status. Their words of encouragement, small acts of love, and belief in us when we were just simple boys and girls have come full circle.

On the other hand, those who dismissed us neglected us, or thought little of us in those humble days can now only watch from a distance. It’s not that we hold grudges—no, life teaches forgiveness and grace—but relationships built on love and respect always bear fruit.

I would be lying if I said I didn’t miss the simplicity of those days. We were just boys and girls, madly in love, living in the moment without a care for tomorrow. My favorite line for Patiee back then was always, “How are you pulling the wagons of life, Patiee dearest?” It’s been thirty-five years since those youthful days, yet it feels like yesterday.

So when my wife jumped up and down like a teenager during that phone call, I understood. It wasn’t just the joy of reconnecting with old friends—it was a moment to revisit the past, to relive those cherished memories when life was unburdened, and love was an adventure.

Today, Timothy and Dudu are visible business figures in South Africa. We all miss the good old days when we were simply boys and girls connected by the neighborhoods of Njube, Entumbane, D-Square, Mkoba, and Mbizo.

Such is life. Seasons change, but one truth remains: Christ is Lord. In all these things, He deserves all the glory for bringing us this far.

Somebody take me back to the good old days.

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