Our Success is Built on the Foundation of Others

The journey of self-discovery and personal growth is one marked by triumphs and setbacks, joys and sorrows, and countless experiences which shape who we are as individuals. Every obstacle we face, be it internal or external, tests our resilience and forces us to adapt and grow. Through these challenges, we learn invaluable lessons that help us evolve and find meaning in our lives.

With each achievement, we affirm our capabilities and reinforce our purpose. However, to truly appreciate the journey and celebrate our successes, it is crucial to acknowledge that they are not ours alone. They are often built on the foundations laid by those who came before us; it is them who have paved the way.

Reflecting on significant milestones in our lives is always a humbling experience. It reminds us that our journey to the present has been marked by determination, sacrifices, and the unwavering support of those around us. We are not self-made successes, rather, we are the sum of our experiences and the contributions of others.

The principle of Ubuntu, deeply rooted in African culture, emphasises the essential interconnection and interdependence of humanity. The wisdom imparted by the elders was founded on the principle that “motho ke motho ka batho”, - an affirmation that our individual successes and failures are intertwined with those around us. We are shaped by the lessons taught to us by our parents, teachers, gogo next door, mentors, and even “myfriend” at the tuckshop. We are inspired by the achievements of others who came before us and showed us what is possible. We are supported by a network of friends, colleagues, spiritual warriors, and loved ones who offer guidance, encouragement, and assistance.

Our successes are not solely the result of our own efforts. Instead, they are the result of the collective knowledge, support, and sacrifices of those who have come before us. Our failures are not ours to bear alone. In our moments of struggle, there will be someone who will come around to lift us up, someone who believes in us even when we doubt ourselves. As humans, we are not meant to face our challenges in isolation, but rather to rely on the strength and support of those around us.

We can even learn from our detractors and naysayers, using their scepticism as a driving force to propel us forward, igniting the passion to push beyond our perceived limits and accomplish what we initially thought was impossible.

Recognising the role others play in our achievements and failures is not meant to diminish our sense of personal victory or agency. On the contrary, it is a reminder of the importance of gratitude, humility, and empathy as we navigate our own paths towards success.

I am filled with gratitude as I pause for a moment to reflect on those who have built the bridges that I walked on and the shoulders on which I stand. I am appreciative of the countless contributions, both seen and unseen, that have made this milestone possible.

As we strive for success, let us do so with an appreciation that we are part of something bigger, that our wins and failures are intertwined with the collective human experience. In our moments of jubilation, let us be grateful for the opportunities we have been given and pay it forward by supporting and uplifting others on their path toward success. Success is never a solo journey, but rather a collective one built on the foundation of others.