allmi 21st book

ALLMI H EYDE N RYCH

A / H E Y D E N R Y C H 1

Ons liewe liefste Allmi

It is 5 March 2013 and 21 years since God entrusted you to us. We have always been very proud of you and thank God for you and how

you have enriched our lives. It’s been a privilege to guide you to adulthood and although we

had some rapids along the way, none of us fell out the boat and we made it to the end of the

meandering, at times a fast flowing“teenage river”.

We look forward to support you in whatever

the future holds for you. Walk with Him as the alternatives are dire. Our purpose is to glorify God with our lives while we are in this life. It

is our prayer that we will all be re-united after this life. We each have a responsibility to make

AS SAMUEL THE PROPHET SAID... GOD SEES OUR HEART nO MATTER wHAT wE SHOw THE wORLD

MUM & DADT W E N T Y O N E

godly decisions to ensure that. Behind this page is a collection of contributions from friends and

family. May it be a treasure for therest of your life.

These are some of the people who spoke into your life at some stage during your 21 years. There were many more, but unfortunately

we were unable to make contact with them. Cherish their wisdom and treasure the fine things people said to you and about you.

However remember that you live not to impress people but for an Audience of One.

We love you very much. Mum and Dad

A / H E Y D E N R Y C H2


So you have turned 21 today. What an important day in your life. Congratulations!According to tradition you have now entered the adult world. ‘Adults’ can at times seem

childishly immature. Never be dragged down to that level. Being jolly and enjoying life is of course a good thing and very important, as

long as one always behaves in a dignified and responsible manner. But that is how we have come to know you and we love you for that.

Within a few years from now you will be a medical doctor, and we are sure a very good one too. However, that will bring an almost

unthinkable change to your life. Your admirable time management skills will be tested to

the full as will your sense of responsibility and accountability. At present you feel a

responsibility towards your loved ones, friends, your sports team and of course your studies and your work. Once you become a medical

doctor, however, your obligations, responsibility and accountability will extend to a large

number of patients as well. Not only to them, but indirectly also to their loved ones and

dependants. Of course there will also be your employees and colleagues to consider.Above

all, you’ll have the obligation and responsibility

‘THERE ARE OnLy TwO wAyS Of LIvInG. EITHER LIvE AS If nOTHInG In LIfE IS A MIRAcLE, OR LIvE AS If

EvERyTHInG IS A MIRAcLE’- Albert Einstein

OUM A & OU pAT W E N T Y O N E

to keep up to date with the knowledge and developments of your profession. A tall order, but we are confident that you have the ability, integrity and the enthusiasm to cope with it all.

Being a good doctor of course also means accepting the responsibility of caring for your own health by being fit and healthy.Therefore,

continuing with your social life, sport and recreation will be as important as it has always been although you will have much less time for it than up to now.But with your exceptional time management skills we are convinced that you

will be succesful.

So Allmi, we send you on your way into the adult world and as a future medical doctor, with good wishes and full confidence that

you’ll make a wonderful success of your life. Just stay who you are, live according to your convictions and keep faith. Remember what is

written in Pilippians 4 verse13: “I can do all this, through Christ who

strengthens me.”

We love you dearly,Oupa and Ouma


Arrrrrmi (I was so tempted to put that on the front cover!). Happy Birthday!! Collating these letters that your parents collected has been a humbling experience. You have touched so many people with your generosity and loving

character - everybody has a specialmemory of you!

We have many memories together and shared a whole heap of adventures too - I thought I’d

use this chance to remind you (seen as you forget all the time!). I may not be the most

emotive guy, but I have certainly loved every adventure we have shared and all the memories

they have given us.

These adventures have certainly taught me a lot about you (and myself too!). I just want

pAU LT W E N T Y O N E

to mention a couple of things about your personality that I have discovered and admire. Firstly, your organisational skills - without them I’m sure we would not have done half as many adventures as we have! Your commitment to the adventure at hand - without that I’m sure the memories of our adventures would not be as vivid as they are! Not to mention your

patience and calming manner .. wait, hold on.

Seriously though, thank you for sharing all that you have with me. I have loved every minute

of every adventure and I look forward to many more memories! Love you lots

- Paul

A / H E Y D E N R Y C H8

Well first of all Happy 21st! Yahoo !! An opportunity to celebrate your first 21 years and to look forward to what the future holds for you.

I feel lucky to have known you. I feel lucky to have known you as a Teacher, Sports Coach and Friend. I feel lucky to have taught you for PE as a young 13 year old way back in 2006!

I am lucky that you got to play Volleyball for me for 5 years. Even way back then,

your commitment, resolve, dedication and determination were personal qualities that shonefrom you. I remember you started off

your Volleyball Career in the Junior Girls Team 3 and worked your way into the Senior Team 1, just a couple of years later. You trained hard,

committed to practices and wanted to succeed. These are qualities that will take you far in

this life. Like me you are competitive (we scare others at times) and a hard worker.

Long Bay College acknowledged your tenacity and success by awarding you the title of Academic Leader and Prefect in 2010. A

role you grabbed with both hands and set a shining example to others, your peers, younger

ADE LE DRAB B LET W E N T Y O N E

students, your teachers and me included. As a Volleyball Coach for the last four years you have helped teach the game we love to young

students joining the ranks of Volleyballers at LBC. You have continued to be a shining

example to these younger students, who love you, look up to you and want to be like you!

You teach them, the skills of Volleyball, Teamwork and the desire to win. But these

are not the only qualities that you teach them. You teach them, by example, responsibility,

reliability, commitment and loyalty. Your organizational skills and time management

are better than mine! You are kind and compassionate and care about others, and I

admire your strength of character, how you can stick up for the underdog, yourself and others.

Remember year 9 PE? Even back then Isaw a leader emerging. I am so proud of you

Allmi and know that unfailingly you will lead a wonderful, full and successful life! You are one

in a Million!’

Love,Adele Drabble


A llmi-chaaaan! Happy 21st Birthday!

L ooking back over the past year, I realise how grateful I am to have met you! Not only have you been a fantastic study-buddy, but

you’ve also been a true friend. I honestly don’t think I would have gotten through our first year

of medical school in one piece without you.

L earning and lamenting seem to go hand-in-hand with us, though as much as we dis-

like studying, you have to admit that our study sessions were kind of fun! I loved watching

the O.C. with you and complaining about the amount of study our lecturers had given us. I loved our mini breaks where we’d drink ‘robo

tea’ and gossip about our classmates (hehe). Fi-nally, I loved having a shoulder to cry on when we were feeling overwhelmed, and I hope you know that my shoulder will always be there for

you in times of trouble :)

A MB E R LI E MCCA MB R I Dg ET W E N T Y O N E

M y appreciation of you extends far beyond the study aspect of our friendship. You’re

so kind-hearted, and always willing to help someone in need.. it would be difficult not to

be friends with you! I notice that people in our class always go out of their way to chat to you, because you have such a genuinely nice per-

sonality and always make people feel at ease. I’m never afraid to share my problems with you, and even though you’ve heard them a thousand

times, you’re always willing to give me good advice. You’re so understanding and patient. I think you’re going to make a fantastic Doctor!

I ’m looking forward to studying comparative literature with you… lol

Lots of love, Amberlie

THAN KS FOR SAVI NgME ALLMI - CHAN ! !

A / H E Y D E N R Y C H1 0

Congratulations on turning 21! We saw you grow up ............into a lovely young lady! Here’s

a bit of a backflash.......

We first saw you at around 5 or 6 years old. You held onto your little brown suitcase and

your dad’s hand with equal determination. As an immigrant, you realised early on that one had to pack life’s essentials, so you won’t be caught out! At that time we can only guess

what was in it – probably your favourite teddy and a little nibble! Life’s important lesson: BE

PREPARED!

We often joined up with you and your mom and dad on outdoor activities. We were the kind of people to not mind too much what

we wore, as long as it could take mud, sand, water, sun or wind. So after a particular rough

day tramping, you mentioned that one day, you would like to be beautiful, not like your mom. Well, as life turned out, you ended up

looking very pretty, and strangely, your mom is still looking very good too, even after endless

outdoor adventures. Life’s important lesson: BE BEAUTIFUL OUTSIDE AS WELL AS INSIDE!

We had a memorable trip to Lake Tarawera. We went across the lake in Simon’s creation, a trimaran called Miwaka. Initially you were really apprehensive, and Simon had to carry you on and off Miwaka in case your feet got

wet. This was because you had heard rumours of boiling water at the edge of the lake.

However, after a couple of splashes, you and me found a very comfortable little spot behind

AN ITA & S IMON g E E RTSEM AT W E N T Y O N E

a rock, where we could “open” the hot water or cold water tap, and enjoyed quite a few

hours of lazing in the water! Life’s little lesson: EMBRACE NEW EXPERIENCES, IT OFTEN

TURNS OUT TO BE FUN!

During this trip, you enjoyed the company of Stefan and Claire (our son and his wife) and asked a lot of very sensible questions,

such as: Why did you marry? Who cooks the food? Well, may this inquisitiveness stay with

you throughout your life! Stefan and Claire thought you were pretty cool for a thirteen

year old! Life’s important lesson: REACH OUT TO OTHERS, AND THEY WILL REACH OUT TO

YOU!

Then there was the time me and you flew together to South Africa, you to visit your family and me to see mine. So we spent many hours together chatting. For those of you who know, this amounts to about 25 hours of flying, either

way. So that was a lot of talking. You also didn’t like flying all that much, but put on a

brave face. You get ten out of ten in my book for gritting your teeth and getting on with it!

Life’s important lesson: DETERMINATION AND SELF SACRIFICE WILL BRING YOU FAR!

Me and Simon would like to wish you a wonderful future, keep the Lord’s will in mind,

be kind to others, help where you can, be mindful of those less fortunate than you. With

lots of love,Anita and Simon


We were so priveliged to have crossed your life journey on several occasions. As a youngster

we remember you asking us: “On whose lap will I sit now?” at Ubert’s funeral.

Later, when we had the wonderful experience to visit you and your family in Auckland, I clearly

remember how proud you were to go and show me your school and classroom and I had

the experience of walking you to school We discussed grown up stuff like people burning churches down and the possible reasons for

doing this?

And then the four of us (Ouma, Annette and you and me) had that amazing trip of North

island in your parents combi.

Will we ever forget the night where the overnight room was so small with the bunker

beds on top of one another.Only one person at a time could get dressed whilst the other three

had to wait outside!! We all thought that we will not get to sleep in such a small space. Once we all settled in for the night, you were too scared to sleep so high and you shared Ouma’s bed

on floor level.(Ouma and Annette were too “old” to climb up there). When I realized the irony of the situation, I started laughing and all the beds

started shaking. I then said: “We thought the four of us would not fit in here and now we can

actually take in a border. Will we ever forget those wonderful days!!

AN N ETTE & WIM MOOIM ANT W E N T Y O N E

Later on, we did meet again whenever you visited South Africa, and you have grown into a beautiful young girl and we are all so proud of

you and your achievements.

One of your photos takes a very special place amongst our own children/grandchild in our

“brag” display. May you always have the shade on your face and the wind in your back.

Lovies Uncle Wim and Auntie Annette

“We are always face to face with our Destiny and we have to handle this reality with all the

power and courage thatwe can muster.

A life of perpetual action, never-ending

workloads and firm principles are encountered on the road to our Destiny.To face this we

require energy, wisdom, determination and above all abundant Blessings from our

Heavenly Father, for we know that on our own we are nothing. Therefore, we must put on our Godly armour, to complete the journey meant for us as children of God, with power, believe

and conviction that we know to be true.

Let us rather erode away and leave a memory like Table Mountain (that was formed by

erosion), than to rust away with no use at all.”

A / H E Y D E N R Y C H 1 3

Allmi! Baie geluk met 21ste!! Mag die

toekoms ‘n fees wees!!!

‘yOUR TALEnT IS GOD’S GIfT TO yOU. wHAT yOUDO wITH IT IS yOUR GIfT bAck TO GOD.’

- Leo Buscaglia

B E LI N DA & DE ON H EYDE N RYCHT W E N T Y O N E

Dearest Allmi I’d feel rude if I didn’t start this letter by saying, my biggest, warmest, most heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS on reaching your 21st birthday! What an exciting time of your life you’re about to enter! I feel incredibly privileged to be able to say that I’ve had the pleasure of your friendship for 11 years now; I’ve been there to witness you grow from a kid into an adult, from a girl into a lady, and from a child of God into a Young Woman of God. As you have matured, I have seen so many beautiful and admirable qualities solidify themselves in your character; you show genuine care and compassion towards people, no matter who they are! You make people feel appreciated and significant, you show unwavering loyalty to those you love and care about, and you are an encouraging and uplifting person to be around. I must also say that you are an absolute beauty on the outside too! Something else that really stands out to me is your strength. Not the showy, leader-y type of strength (although you are a brilliant leader too!), but a peaceful strength that underlays your decisions and actions. You have a confidence about you that I admire. I wanted to share with you a few thoughts on Psalm 37:5-7… it reads

Depend on the LORD; trust him, and he will take care of you. Then your goodness will shine like the sun, and your fairness like the noonday sun.

Wait and trust the LORD. God solidly promises to take care of us, he just needs us to recognise that we need him in our lives, and he needs us to trust in Him. A challenge for us to think about is how much we do trust God, but perhaps an even more powerful challenge is to consider how much of ourselves we have entrusted to Him. We’ve been told a million times that we have to trust God with everything in our lives, not just the little things that seem easy to entrust to Him.. but knowing that and actually doing it are poles apart. I know I’ve struggled with trying to hold onto parts of my life on my own, thinking that I ‘don’t really need to trust God with that’, and it seems to work for a while, but then I realise the unnecessary anxiety or hardship or pain that seems to accompany the things I try to keep from sharing with and entrusting to God, and perhaps God allows the anxiety or hardship or pain to remind me of where my heart should be, and how I should be letting him into that area of my life. I read this quote a while back – “When we live our lives with prayer on the fringe we are really telling God that we don’t trust Him. Often with our lips we declare trust but with our lives we show that we really

don’t believe He will see us through.” I believe that deep, heartfelt, sincere trust in God with our whole selves can be found through on-going prayer, seeking God’s will through the Bible, meditating on his love and care for you. I’d really like to encourage you to persist with daily quiet times, make it a priority. I believe that the times that you spend alone with God in prayer, bringing your praise, anxieties, joys, sorrows, desires, thanksgiving, all to Him can really lead you deeper to trusting God whole-heartedly. You know that he wants the best for you, and you should trust him to provide it for you, but in His way, and in His time. You probably had a little laugh at the second picture I chose to include in this letter… but I did have a few reasons for picking this one! Firstly, it’s pretty cute, right ;) Secondly, it shows where our friendship started out, when we were just little kids! And it’s great that it has continued as we’ve grown up, and there is no doubt in my mind that we’ll still be friends when we’re grandmas in our rocking chairs! ;) and thirdly, and perhaps the more serious reason, is that it shows how we went through life arm in arm (literally in this photo!) for a significant time period of our lives. When I first arrived at Glamorgan you totally accepted and embraced me, and we began our friendship journey! I remember when we were inseparable, mainly through primary and intermediate. I have amazing memories of you and with you! As we moved through college, I think our paths simply didn’t cross as often as before, since we were in different classes and got involved in various different activities, but even though I don’t think I saw you as much, I still felt close to you as a friend. I see you even less these days, but I do treasure our friendship still, and I always will. You are such a special girl, and have been such an important part of my life. I have been abundantly blessed by having you in my life, and though we are no longer those little girls who daily ‘walk arm in arm’ together, I know I can trust and rely upon your on-going encouragement, support, friendship, and love. Having reached this significant milestone, it’s a good opportunity for you to reminisce and be proud of what you’ve achieved in your life already. At the same time, I’d encourage you to look forward also. You have worked hard to lay a foundation of education for yourself, and as you consider where the medical field may lead you in the future, take your time to meditate and ask God to help steer you in the right direction, that whatever you do, you will feel passionate about and it will give you satisfaction and enjoyment in your life, as well as giving the glory to God. I pray God’s blessing over you on this special occasion, and in the years to come. I love you, my friend. -Chelsea


You were privileged to be born to wise,big-hearted and far sighted parents, and you cottoned on to that very early on. I do like the way you speak so honourably, appreciatively and respectfully of them always. Well done for managing this recent transition between chapters in your life. It was no easy time,

but you know where your resources are, and are therefore well-armed for these times in

your life. I admire you for having grabbed the opportunities afforded you with both hands,

and not only made the most of them for yourself, but selflessly used them to further the enjoyment and skills for others. And…it’s great that you always make sure you are so nicely turned out, and I like that you wear dresses!

Happiness is a decision…It’s not that you will be happy when/if…. One has to choose to be happy first. That’s what makes the fertile soil required to support a fulfilling life.For a long while when I was young, I didn’t really know what I wanted. I just couldn’t be specific. So I

visualised myself with a smile on my face…. that way I knew that I was happy with whatever was going on around me. You can choose how you see things…We’ve lost the path Butch…..No dear we just haven’t found it yet. (He is never in any

doubt that things will be ok. It works).

You don’t do it alone….Trust that you will be shown the right path…and that what you need

DE N E S IMpSON & B UTCH DE B RU I NT W E N T Y O N E

will come to you. Do your ‘homework’ (don’t relinquish all responsibility) and don’t sweat the rest…..just trust. And remember, the scenic route

can also be good!

When two are together…Good and cheerful company is hard to come by…..make sure that’s

at the top of your list of offerings. Value your health…. You would trade everything for it if

you didn’t have it. Eat protein and vegetables, low glycemic index foods, small volume, and nothing from a packet or a bottle. Tell your

kids….I will always love you, but it’s up to you to make me like you. Say thank you…Practice gratitude for everything, all the time….for the

obvious and also seemingly trivial. Make each day a letter of the alphabet, and give thanks

for as many things as you can think of starting with that letter…..and after 26 days…begin again

at A…like this…

Thank you for Allmi, this attractive and amazing angel, and admirable and

accomplished academic, who now advances from adolescence, and adapts to adulthood

with an abundance of appreciation, awareness and ability. We accept and acknowledge that

she will, in her aims, be accompanied by ample assistance, awesome associates, astonishing

adventure and an abiding faith in the Almighty. With much loveDene and Butch

‘wHAT IS LIfE….wE MAkE A LIvInG by wHAT wE GET;wE MAkE A LIfE by wHAT wE GIvE’

- Winston Churchill


Allmi Baie Geluk met jou 21e verjaardag! Mag jy sooo besonderse daggie he en fantastiese

mooi jare vorentoe. Bly altyd so ‘n lieflike mensie;

ons is baie lief vir jou

– die EYBERS’E xxxx

Spesiale Gebed vir jou:Heer hoe sê ‘n mens dankie vir dit wat jy het...... vir soveel liefde, ‘n huisie en n bed...... Heer ek het nie veel nie, maar dit weet U klaar...... maar die bietjie wat ek het, is vir rny so kosbaar......

Heer ek tel elke dag my seëninge een vir een...... want ek weet wat ek het, is net vir my geleen......

Heer soms kan my lewens-storms ook maar woes slaan...... maar steeds laat U my huisie vas staan...... Heer U beskerm my; my ouers,

familie en maatjies al ons hele lewe lank...... en soms weet ’n mens nie hoe om U te bedank...... Heer my geld is min, en my huisie is klein......

E LSAB é & g E R HAR D EYB E RST W E N T Y O N E

maar dit so asof daar meer Sonlig in my ou huisie skyn...... Heer, ek kyk vas in glimlaggies en kry drukkies elke dag...... en God ek kan dit

weer terug gee, want U is my krag...... Heer, soms laat die lewe my ook opdraende loop...... maar ek het geleer waar daar lewe is, is daar

hoop...... Heer, ek het leer swem toe die lewens-branders op hul woeste geslaan het...... en

toe ek struikel en afdwaal, was U die een wat verstaan het...... Heer, U het hartseer, pyn en ook soms twyfel op my pad gebring...... en U het weer n Melodie in my lewe gegee toe My

hart nie meer die Lied van die lewe wou sing...... U het soveel keer my uit die donker dieptes van die lewe kom haal...... juis wanneer ek

dink als het my gefaal...... maar Heer U het my totaal verstom...... toe ek heel by die wenpaal anderkant uitkom...... Daarom buig ek vandag my knieë in gebed...... en sê: “Dankie Heer vir

dit wat ek het”

- die EYBERS’E xxxx


Dearest Allmi, what a great milestone to achieve...turning 21. You have had such a

wonderful adventurous journey up to now...you must be so excited to see what the future holds.

When we think of a word to describe you...we think it is ‘Goodness’. You have got such a calm and positive influence on others...many

look up to you as a rolemodel. It is a wonderful virtue to have. If you use it wisely it will open

up exciting opportunities for you to help others and to bring about change.

We also know you are very courageous...I think it is because you embrace and is true to your

upbringing. It will always serve you well to trust in the upbringing you had from mum and dad.

To me courage is excepting the choices you make...or have the courage seek change.

We wish you well on all that life has to offer you. You will have to make some choices along the way...but we trust you will make the correct ones. Always trust in God...and the rest will fall

into place.

With lots of love...Hannes, Elsie, Eljoré and Jay

E LS I E & HAN N E S COETzE ET W E N T Y O N E

Happy 21st Allmi!

In an age when the options for youth and young adults are plentiful many of the z-generation fail to make decisions, net alone make valued and informed ones. In not making de-cisions, the current of society in essence makes the decisions for you. Instead of making this world a better place, this world makes people what it wants. But not everybody! Allmi you are different! Allmi you are unique! Behind a beautiful and calm exterior is a character of resolve and pur-pose. When one gets to know you, one can discover the pur-pose and resolve you have. It is no surprise that you achieve at distinction level academically and that you have the privilege and honour to study medicine. It is something you have pur-posed to go after. We wait with excitement on how you will make this world a better place and how you will help to build our Lord’s Kingdom. You will be a world changer! You have taken an interest in our family and each one of us can testify of your kindness and helpfulness. You have listened and celebrated our challenges, successes and victories in life. You have a capacity to care, to help others improve themselves. Your parents, your faith and your willingness to build who you are, physically, mentally, socially and spiritually has made it a joy to know you Allmi. May God continue to bless you and guide you in your future as He has promised in Jeremiah 29:11. : For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Our love to you as you celebrate 21 years of life! Ross, Roula, Samuel and Stephanos Georgiou


Little Allmi sitting on a tractorIf she falls she’ll need a chiropractor.

But she sits there, cool as iceWe shout, “Careful!”Not once but twice.

Little Allmi grown a lot biggerSomehow gained a stunning figure.

Face to match, a real charmerWe tell the boys, “Careful!

Don’t harm her.”Little Allmi, sawing a cadaver.

Says to us, “What’s all the palaver?”Pulls out a liver and a kidney

Takes some bloodFom a dead guy called Sidney.

Little Allmi, dressed in whiteCloses her books, turns out the light.

Allmi Heyden, G.P., benefactor.The world embraces

Our Allmi, sitting on a tractor.

JE N NY & H OWAR D HAR R ISONT W E N T Y O N E


How time flies! I remember it like it was just last week that your mother told me she was pregnant – and look at you know! I hope you have a fantastic birthday and many, many

blessings in your walk of life.

You are a special young lady, I hope you realise this. You are talented, with a gentle nature and

intelligent, beautiful too.

When I think back, I remember a little girl who was not very sure of herself and was not too eager to get involved, especially in outdoor activities and yet now, you have blossomed

and play an important role in the lives of other young people. What a privilege and honour,

but most of all, what a responsibility. And one that I am sure you take very seriously.

Below, is part of a short story I was asked to write about myself a while ago and now share

with you. As you develop and grow, you go through many different phases (here are some

possibilities):• At the start, it is all about you (sadly, some

people do not develop beyond this point!). The world owes you everything.

• You might go through a stage of believing that you know everything and can’t be taught a

single thing.

K AR E N E ICH HOLzT W E N T Y O N E

• Some people may believe they are invincible, but age certainly changes your perspective on

this one!• Then you slowly start realising how little you actually do know and that you should have

paid more attention when wise people tried to share their experience and knowledge with you.

• And at some stage you have a rude awakening and realise how incredibly short

and precious life is.• This was my wake-up call: LIFE IS SHORT.

My Father came to South Africa from Germany in the early 1950’s, so I have a bit of Pioneer

blood in me. (Maybe a bit of Gypsy blood too?) The Pioneer spirit is something that fascinates me. These people explored the world – against

the odds. No GPS, Convenience Stores, Emergency Services, Take Aways or Insurance.

But, they had a vision – a vision of a better life. They had to create their own opportunities

and fight for their survival and success. We give up too easily in modern times. We don’t know what hardship is, and because it is so easy to walk away from a challenge, we do

not reach our full potential. And I believe that our potential is far greater than most of us ever

imagine.

‘I cAn DO EvERyTHInG THROUGH HIM wHO GIvES ME STREnGTH’- Philippians 4:13


K AR E N E ICH HOLzT W E N T Y O N E

And so, I am determined not to let a single opportunity pass me by because I am afraid of failure. I am determined to make the best of every day, never to waste time on useless

endeavours and to try and make a difference in the lives of the people who cross my path (and also allow them to make a difference in my life, as long as the contribution is positive!) I will try to surround myself with positive, encouraging people and learn to minimize the impact of

negative, destructive people and things.

The above essay may sound very idealistic, and maybe it is, but I do believe that we owe

it to God and to ourselves, to make every moment count. Even when bad things happen to us, we have the choice of taking the positive

out of it, and becoming a stronger, more compassionate, more understanding and

caring person.

I have also learned that we are capable of far more that we realise. Be this physically or

intellectually. When you think you can’t go any further, I have news for you: YOU CAN! Just dig

deeper and you will surprise yourself.

You have chosen a career in medicine. This will bring you in contact with many, many people

and opportunities to care for, support and

influence them. Again, what a privilege and what a responsibility. But also remember that these people will have an impact on your life. Go through life with an open heart and open

eyes, and learn from other people. You will also be exposed to the bad side of life – this is a

dreadful shame, but don’t let it harden you, let the love that Christ has for this lost world shine out through you and become a blessing to the

suffering people you encounter.

Blessings, young Friend, as you start on your new adventure. May you know every day, that God is walking with you. May others see the

love of Christ in you and be blessed by having you in their lives.

Baie liefdeKaren (Eichholz)

‘TREAT PEOPLE AS If THEy wERE wHAT THEy OUGHTTO bE AnD yOU HELP THEM TO bEcOME wHAT

THEy ARE cAPAbLE Of bEInG’- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe


You and I always speak a mix of Afrikaans and English and I have come to consider you as a

true “designer breed” with exceptional qualities inherited from your South African foremothers together with a healthy dose of the good Kiwi

characteristics – individuality and a strong sense of right and wrong .

On this special day I am writing toyou about kindness

Daar is nie werklikwaar ‘n lekker woord in Afrikaans wat presies dieselfde as “kindness” beteken nie. “Gaaf” en “vriendelik” is bietjie lig

in die broek en daarom skryf ek in Engels.

When I met you in 2007 in Oudtshoorn, my first thought was: “ What a kind and warm hearted young girl”. You gave all your attention to Carli, spoke with her about her ideas, opened your heart to her anddemonstrated graciousness.

K AR I N & LOU IS B OTE ST W E N T Y O N E

You reassured her, provided facts as well as emotional support and you had (still have) the kindest brown eyes! You also acted towards

your ouma and your aunt in such a soft hearted and kind way.

Now you are no longer a young girl but this kindness continues to be a part of who you

are. The other day when Louis and I saw you in Countdown, I was struck once again by your capacity to always make time for others and to become involved in even the smallest details –

like being concerned whether we’d find the right freebie glasses. By being such a good listener and being attentive to things that other people would consider trivial, you make people feel as if you share their concerns and that you

really want to help find a solution to what they perceive as a problem. You make people feel appreciated and would make an effort (in a

very genuine way) to show peoplethat you value them.

‘kInDnESS IS A fORcE… wITHOUT fORcE’


Personally, I feel one should beware of deluded kindness – the kind which is really about self-interested politeness, calculated generosity, superficial etiquette. This is certainly not the

Allmi I have come to know. Your kindness goes so much deeper than mere manners and I have

never even had a whiff of you pretending to care for someone. Your kindness is genuine and one instinctively feels that you are not afraid to “be cruel to be kind” – being brutally honest if

needed.

I have never detected false pleasantries in you and believe that this is partly a result of

your awareness that you need to balance your kindness towards others with a kindness to

yourself. Accepting yourself as you are, being aware of what it is that you personally value, making time for what is important to you and

therefore not allowing others to abuse this inherent kindness, is necessary. The fact that

K AR I N & LOU IS B OTE ST W E N T Y O N E

you have been able to balance this kindness towards yourself and the kindness shown to others, is remarkable for a 21 year old.

Continuing to do this, would certainly prevent burn-out and disillusionment - especially when you have invested so much kindness in others.

I have read that being kindis a way of living that keeps giving long after the kind thoughts, words, and actions have taken place. One of my favourites: “Kindness is a force… without

force”

Thank you for showing kindness to each of the Botes family members – myself, Louis, Louelle,

Carli and Marnus. You are an exceptional young woman and my wish for you is: May

you always see God in the beauty of every day. May the Lord show kindness to you, as you

have shown to me. Ruth 1:8.Karin

‘MAy yOU ALwAyS SEE GOD In THE bEAUTy OfEvERy DAy. MAy THE LORD SHOw kInDnESS TO yOU,

AS yOU HAvE SHOwn TO ME’

Allmi,

I am so grateful for your friendship. Welcoming me into your home

with trust, openness and warmth was so comforting for me and I am so

glad that we have become good friends because of it. I love that you

consider me a big sister and I couldn’t ask for a better little sister!

You are such a fun person. I love that we can joke and laugh together.

You are a girl who knows how to have fun which is actually so important.

We all need to take time out to enjoy life and you encourage me to do this

frequently when I am being too much of a ‘nana’. Not to mention all your

funny quips and advice on how to get me married off!

I admire your maturity. Despite only just turning 21, you are level-

headed and grounded enabling you to reach your goals, make good

decisions and get the most out of your life. You will go far and I am

excited for all you will become and all you will do in 10, 20 and 50 years’

time!

I could write pages and pages about your good qualities but for sake of

space I will just quickly mention a few more – You are confident,

responsible, hardworking and caring. You are so diligent with your

studies yet no matter how busy you get, you still take time to show

interest in my life and ensure that those around you know you care. You

are genuine. People can trust you and feel relaxed in your company

because you never pretend or put up a false front. You are honest

which can be a rare gem these days and I so value that in you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

God commands us to be grateful because He knows that it will

enrich our lives. When life is going great remember to thank God. This

keeps us humble and content with what we have. When you are in

despair, thank God also because this will lift your spirit and cause you

to have joy in the darkest of circumstances. I often write a list of

everything I am grateful for when I am feeling down and it puts

everything in perspective so that before I realise it I am feeling much

better! Count your blessings each day instead of worrying. Give your

cares to God because he cares for you! Philippians 4:5-7 tells us to be

anxious for nothing but in all things pray to God, giving Him thanks

and He will give you His peace which goes beyond our understanding.

You have a lot to be thankful for – you made it to 21, surrounded by

people who love you, living in a peaceful and beautiful nation. Don’t

forget how special you are, how much you are blessed and keep living

your dreams with an attitude of gratitude!


Congratulations on the turning 21!

You may recall we first met a day after your 6th birthday. To us it seems like yesterday

but to you it is a lifetime. As you grow older you will notice that time seems to pass much

faster. Before you know it, you will be a doctor and one day you will be looking back on your

life. You will probably notice that time has passed really quickly and you will reflect on

what is important in life and to you personally. You have made a very important decision to become a doctor and one that will influence

many people’s lives.

I remember many years ago reading an article written by Prof Chris Barnard. I probably don’t have to tell you who he was!. He described the scene when he and his class mates received

their final exam results. He told about how he, and lots of his classmates, crowded around a notice board to get a glimpse of their names. One of his friends was up close and started

M ARA & N EVI LLE COLLI NgT W E N T Y O N E

reading the names aloud. As each name was read, and if that person was present, there

was a shriek of joy. At last his name was read. Christiaan Barnard! Then he says he heard someone else’s name being read and that

person exclaiming! “WE ARE IN THE MONEY!” He says he remembers thinking that surely

qualifying as a doctor meant that they would be in medicine and not in “The Money”. That

being a doctor was about making a difference and not just about making money!

I know your Mom and Dad much better that I know you. So I am not certain about what is important to you and what your values are.

However knowing your Mom and Dad and their values I am confident that when you do get

your final results you will be ..‘IN MEDICINE !’

All our love and best wishes for your future!

Colling Family


Hier is ‘n Helen Steiner Riceinspirerende gediggie

cLIMb ‘TIL yOUR DREAM cOMES TRUEOften your tasks will be many,

And more than you think you can do….Often the road will be rugged

And the hills insurmountable, too….But always remember, the hills ahead

Are never as steep as they seem,And with Faith in your heart start upward,

And climb ‘til you reach your dream,For nothing in life that is worthy

Is ever too hard to achieveIf you have the courage to try it

M AR I & DU NCAN JON E ST W E N T Y O N E

And you have the Faith to believe….For Faith is a force that is greaterThan knowledge or power or skillAnd many defeats turn to triumph

If you trust in God’s wisdom and will….For Faith is a mover of mountains,

There’s nothing that God cannot do,So start out today with Faith in your heartAnd “climb ‘til your dream comes true”!

Allmi het beslis die volgende gedemonstreer, Find a Way.

Groete Duncan & Mari

‘ObSTAcLES DOn’T HAvE TO STOP yOU. If yOU RUn InTO A wALL, DOn’T TURn AROUnD AnD GIvE UP. fIGURE OUT HOw TO cLIMb IT, GO THROUGH IT, OR wORk AROUnD IT’

- Michael Jordon

Allmi we wish you a happy 21

st birthday We hope that you will have

the best day of your life. We so wish we can be there to share this

special day with you

You were the cutest little girl I will never forget the times we had together

when we were still little girls...

Our wish to you for your future is that it will be filled with awesomeness and

never ending happiness Always stay true to yourself. You are an amazing person

with the purest heart. You are so beautiful inside and outside

Psalm 18: 29 – 32

U, Here, laat my lamp helder

skyn; my God gee lig as dit

donker is om my. Met U hulp

loop ek ‘n oormag storm, met

my God by my is geen

stadsmuur vir my te hoog nie.

Wat God doen, is volmaak; wat

die Here sê, is suiwer. Elkeen

wat by Hom skuiling soek,

beskerm Hy. Waarlik, wie

anders as die Here is God? Ja,

wie anders as ons God is ‘n

rots?

I can remember the time you came

and visit us and we went to the

farm. We had so much fun!

Look what we

made you do!

Tembo the six ton

African Elephant!

Sep’07










Psalm 18: 29 – 32













rots?




Look what we

made you do!

Tembo the six ton

African Elephant!

Sep’07










Psalm 18: 29 – 32













rots?




Look what we

made you do!

Tembo the six ton

African Elephant!

Sep’07










Psalm 18: 29 – 32













rots?




Look what we

made you do!

Tembo the six ton

African Elephant!

Sep’07

To our dearest cousin... On your 21st birthday...

Love you always.Marjean & Eluan Rabe

xxx

M ARJEAN & E LUAN RAB ET W E N T Y O N E

ALLMI

You've been such an amazing person to live with! You're really

funny, super organized and you make really good food haha!

I'm so glad we've become friends and ended up living

together, I never would've imagined!

I still remember the first time we met at Paper Moon and I liked

you're name so much I saved it on my phone so I could name

my kid "Allmi" one day haha...

Anyway it's been great becoming friends even more living in the

same house I've loved DIYing things with you, painting our nails

etc. I really wish of all the best as you take this new step in life,

stay true to God, your family and yourself!

Love you Allmi

Melinda


On the special occasion of your21st birthday - 5 March 2013

Dear AllmiIt is an honour and privilege to celebrate with you as you reach your 21st birthday.

Congratulations and our best wishes to you on this special day. I have a very clear memory of the first time I met you. You would have been 9 years old, just before your 10th birthday.

Chelsea had found a new friend at Glamorgan Primary, and one Saturday morning you and your mom came in the little blue car to fetch

Chelsea so that she could have a play date at your house. A pretty little girl with a huge smile

came skipping over to us, and Chelsea was very excited to be going to your house to play, and while that was happening, I looked at your

mom’s face, and said “You’re the lady who wrote the book “A New Life in New Zealand!” I was very excited to meet you both because we had read the book before we came over,

and it had been a great help to us. I had asked Chelsea previously if your surname was Nortjé, as there was a little girl called Allmi mentioned

in the book, and as I didn’t think the name Allmi was all that common, I had wondered if Chelsea’s new little friend was the same girl, but Chelsea had said that your surname was

Heydenrych, so that was that, until you arrived

ME LAN I E & AN DR EW A M MT W E N T Y O N E

in our driveway! And so a great friendship was born that has lasted all these 11 years so far, and I know that you two will be “forever friends” no matter where you both end up.

You hold a special place in the hearts of our family, and we feel blessed to know you. It has

been a joy to see the little girl grow into the wonderful young woman you are today. Well done for all your achievements and the hard work and dedication you have shown through

your school and university years – you deserve all the success you get, and we know that there

are great things ahead for you in your life.

I also want to affirm what a lovely character you display and I can say that you are beautiful inside and out! May your inner beauty always

shine through, and may you continue to walk in faith and follow the Lord Jesus Christ through

your adult life. Our blessing to you on your 21st birthday is this –

May the Lord bless you and keep you.May the Lord make his face to shine upon

you and be gracious to you.May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you

and give you peace.


I also want to share the words of a song that I love, and encourage you to enjoy each day

God gives you, as life will suddenly start passing very quickly, and before you know it,

this birthday will be many years past, and you will look back and wonder where the years

have gone. So live life to the fullest and take joy in each new day God gives you – remember

you only get each moment once!

Teach me to number my days, and count every moment before it slips away.

Take in all the colours, before they fade to grey.

I don’t want to miss even just asecond more of this.

It happens in a blink, it happens in a flashIt happens in the time it took to look back

I try to hold on tight, but there’s nostopping time.

What is it I’ve done with my life?

It happens in a blink. It happens in a blink.

When it’s all said and done, no one remembers how far we have run.

The only thing that matters Ishow we have loved.

I don’t want to miss even just asecond more of this.

It happens in a blink, it happens in a flash.It happens in the time it took to look back.



Slow down, Slow down, Before todaybecomes our yesterday.

It happens in a blink, it happens in a flash.It happens in the time it took to look back.



We know that your life will have value and meaning! Always seek God’s will for your life, live in obedience to Him and He will bless you

richly through the years to come.

So, Happy Birthday our dearest Allmi!

With much loveMelanie and Andrew

ME LAN I E & AN DR EW A M MT W E N T Y O N E

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To my dearest Allmari Highdenrake!

You are 21! You have reached the 21st anniversary of the day you were born!

Congratulations my friend!

I still remember so clearly the very first time I met young Allmi. It was my first day of school (Year Four) at Glamorgan Primary and I did

not know anyone. Miss Tallott introduced me to my buddy who would show me around

the school and point out the toilets etc. You were a bit chubbier back in the day and were sporting a cute wee bob too. I thought maybe they had paired me with you because you had no friends. Needless to say I did not think you

would become one of my best friends.

Harsh first impressions aside, you are one of the kindest, most generous, fun and supportive

friends I have ever known. You have always been there when I have needed you and never

hesitate to help me out.

I know we’ve both done some pretty stupid things in our time. I don’t think we (or our

parents!!) need reminding of the parties we had that we really shouldn’t have had. Nor do we need to tell others about thetimes where we

said we were somewhere, when we were really somewhere else! I’d like to think that wehave

grown up A LOT since those days and hopefully not all the grey hairs on our parents’ heads are

the result of our actions! Thankfully you have become far more sensible over the years! I am so proud of howyou have grown into a highly

motivated, determined adult and that your hard work has been rewarded by your achievements. I know you will go on to get to where you want to be in life, and I look forward to having cheap

medical bills, just jokes! (But not really).

I definitely appreciate our great friendship. No matter how far apart we are or how far away

we go, we can always come back knowing that our friendship is solid and can continue exactly where we left off. You’re always there to laugh at my jokes (which are never funny), and I’ll be there to laugh at your bad jokes too,and I know that is definitely something to be thankful for!

I’m so glad that my first impressions of you were wrong. You are an amazing friend and I

couldn’t havefound a better personto call my bestie.

I hope you have the most amazing 21st birthday and that we can look back when we’re little old lady friendsand remember ‘the good old days’

together!

Love you babe!! Mel x

P.S. Good luck explaining the parties/not-being-were-we-said-we-were thing

to your parents! x

‘fRIEnDS ARE LIkE bRAS: cLOSE TO yOUR HEARTAnD THERE fOR SUPPORT’


Liquid velvet eyes. Gentle sweetness. She was about nine whenwe first met. Her shyness

belied the cornucopia of talents withwhich she has been gifted. Through the years this protea

has bloomed where she has been transplanted. Scholar, sportswoman, leader, achiever.

She is living her dream of becoming a physician. We know she is blessed to be a

blessing. We know she will bring healing balm, inbody, mind, spirit, for hurting people in a

broken world. In this season of our own lives there are times we wish we could talk to our

21 year old selves and start a fresh. We would share with a young person who still bears stars in the eyes and dreams in the heart, a potjiekos

of ideas, with some meaty things and also lighter bits (If I had my life to live over I would

have talked less and listened more)

I would always have inquired of the Lord first- even though Ithought I knew all the answers. I would have regularly told and shown my

husband, children and parents, how much I treasure and appreciate them. I would have

invited friends over to dinner even though the curtains were too short and the sofa faded. I would have burned the pink candle sculpted

NANTO & B E N VAN VLI ETT W E N T Y O N E

like a rose before it melted in storage. I would have cried and laughed less while watching tv and more while watching life. When my children kissed me enthusiastically I would

never have said, “Later. Now go and wash up for lunch.” There would be more “I love you’s..” More “I’m sorrys” I’ve learned that either you control your attitude or it controls you. Today I can cry because roses have thorns or I can celebratethat thorns have roses. All that is

necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. The world is not ruined by the wickedness of the wicked but by the weakness

of the good. Heroes are the people who do what is right regardless of theconsequences.

I’ve learned that just because someone doesn’t love you the wayyou want to, doesn’t mean they don’t love you with all they have. No

matter how good a friend is, they’re going to hurt you once in a while. Forgive because you

have hurt them too. A person who looks for a friend without faults will have none. Two

people can look at exactly the same thing and seesomething totally different. Treat everyone you meet as a valued and valuable person, even if they’re unpleasant. Goethe said that if you treat people the way they are they will

get worse. If you treat them the way they


should be, they can become better. You get more than you give when give more than you get. Three things never return; the past, the

neglected opportunity and the spoken word. Good judgement comes from experience,

experience is theresult of poor judgement. Of all the things you wear your expression is the

most important. A ship in a harbour is safe but that is not what ships are built for. You need not scale Mount Everest to be adventurous- it’s abrave mom who takes her offspring for a visit to a hostess who’sfurnished her home

with white sofas and cream carpets. The secret of a peaceful and fruitful life is to forgive

everybody,everything, every night, before you go to bed. If you could understand everything

you could forgive anything. A friend is one who knows us, but loves us anyway. Don’t

confuse fame with success. Madonna is one; Helen Keller is the other. Housework theory; if something doesn’t multiply, catch fire, offend the eye or nose, let it be. I’ve yet to read an

obituary praising a person for a perfectly clean home. Instead, play withyour children, bake

a cake for someone else, or paint a picture. If you can’t make it better, laugh at it. Perform

random acts of kindness (pay the grocery bill of thescruffy old lady who is standing before

NANTO & B E N VAN VLI ETT W E N T Y O N E

you in the supermarket checkout) and commit senseless acts of beauty (pull the tall weedin the park). When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that His liquid love has never ceased to pour through me to others and

that every talent He has given me has been used to the last drop to glorify Him. And that I will be able to put a basket of beautiful ripe fruit at thefoot of the Throne overflowing with

love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.

Allmi, in the end it’s all about relationships, first vertically then horizontally.And about

the choice to either rule your life by I WANT I THINK IFEEL or to submit your will to

YOUR WILL be done. Please, never lose your enthusiasm, your sweetness, your senseof

adventure, and the suppleness of your body and mind. Blessings abound Menanteau

(Nanto) and Ben van Vliet

PS Some of the ideas have their origin in Erma Bombeck’s gemspublished in books such as, “If

Life is a Bowl of Cherries, what am I doing in the Pits”


Congratulations on your 21st birthday!! We have always been very proud of you, your

achievements and how you managed to have such a balanced life as a teenager. This is a great testament to the guidance from your

parents, but more so of your character as a person. Even though you grew up in NZ, your

upbringing and the person you’ve become is a benchmark on how we want to raise Nia and Euan. Please take this as a great compliment!

It is hard to give advice to our “little cousin” as we feel we are not old and wise enough to do so. “Old” is relative and always about 10

years older than you are. Wisdom is rare and ever elusive!!! We therefore approach this as a group to give you some pointers. The panel of

experts present:1. Jakes: is an engineer and wants to order and plan everything. From his perspective marriage

NORTJé CLANT W E N T Y O N E

is a contract, so there should be plans, deadlines, deliverables

and a cashflow forecast.2. Marlene: is a peoples’ person; “love

conquers all”, “let tomorrow look after itself”, “it will be ok in the end” philosopher.

3. Uncle Werner on social media (he could not attend meeting due to “car trouble”).

4. Nia & Euan: no opinion yet, they will ask your advice in 20 years’ time.

Our points for choosing a spouse:1. Marry for money. This might sound

superficial, but then you do not have to work and can shop all day. Your husband can buy you things and he might see you as an object,

which he can replace somewhere in future. Wait, this point is

flawed, please ignore!!!!2. Marry for looks. This is the one!! This might sound superfluous, but Marlene did it and it


worked out wonderfully for her. Wait, this point is flawed, please ignore!!!! 3. Marry because everybody else does. Hmmm, a lot of people

get divorcedjust as easy, so this does not make

sense either. Please ignore!!!!4. ?? Forgot, Jakes got side-tracked when he saw there was rugby on the tele!, sorry! Men can’t multitask. Try and remember this when you want to hurl a spatula at your hubby one

day during sports hour!5. Tweet just in from Uncle Werner “Do not buy

an Alfa Romeo or a Land Rover, you’ll have no time or money left to get married”. Sound

advice, indeed, thanks Werner.

Seriously; 1. Find the “right” person you can spend a lot of time with. You’ll make a promise to stick together “till death do us part”, which

could be a long time.

NORTJé CLANT W E N T Y O N E

2. Understand that you can’t plan everything, you can only make provision. Have plans and

dreams together, butaccept that it will change and how you react to

the challenges, will make yourunion stronger or weaker.

3. Like in sport, the partnership requires a lot of hard work and will never be perfect. It is also important to realise that you as person

will change with time. When the “right person” does not look so right anymore, do some introspection and work at it. In future, you

might thinkhe is the “perfect” person.

4. You have a great Christian upbringing and moral compass, trust your gut!!

Lots of love, Jakes, Marlene, Nia, Euan & Werner


Hello there! How are you? Just want to wish you a very, very happy birthday on your

“coming of age”.

I can still see you as that little girl that I came to know, as I had only known you as the little girl when you started going to the crech up till you were five years of age. I will always remember

your friendliness and your kindness. Never once were you rude or nasty towards me and I

will always remember the sweetness in you.

I still have very fond memories of the time when I travelled with you and your parents up

to Villiersdorp, to go and have a look at the snow in the mountains. You and I took a walk

alone, chased one another, played in the grass and enjoyed the beautiful scenery around the

snowy mountainsand the sunset.

pOppI ET W E N T Y O N E

The other thing that stands out is that every time you come to visit you grandparents here in South Africa, you will always look me up. Then you and your parents will always take me for a meal at the Spur or at the Fish Restaurant in the Somerset Mall. I will always cherish these things and other memories and most of all:

“KNOWING YOU!”.

WORD OF WISDOM Ecclesiastes 11:9. Be happy, young woman, while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of you youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever you see, but know that for all these

things God will bring you to Judgement, “follow the right path”.

The above is what I wish for you to have on your birthday. May God bless you always!

Poppie.

Take time to do the things you enjoy and spend time with those whom you love. Friendships and

experiences build memories… make them count.

Happy 21st Birthday Allmi, may God bless you today and always,May His love shine on you and may He pour

His blessings on you forever.Lots of love and best wishes…

Ron, Lynn & Ashleigh

Never get too busy to laugh.


Birthdays come and birthdays go and with them comes the thoughts

of all the happy memories the passing years have brought

- Helen Steiner Rice

Congratulations on your 21st Allmi!! 21 is a special occasion. We hope it is the

beginning of one of the happiest times of your life. We love you and may God always be

number one in your life! With lots of love from the three of us.

Trix, Hannes and Jaco

SWI Eg E LA AR CLANT W E N T Y O N E


It is such a privilege to be able to make a contribution to your memory book, although

I have been given such a difficult theme to write about – humility. In fact I wonder if there has been some plot on your parents’ part, to

encourage me to reflect on such a challenging topic! Humility I think is often confused with submissiveness or subservience – neither are qualities that you display, being the strong-willed and determined person that you are!

I was interested to find that the derivation of the word “humility” is from the Latin word

humilitas, which is roughly translated as being humble and modest. Humilitas, is a noun

related to the Latin adjective ”humilis”, derived from the word “humus” which loosely translates into the English “soil”. It is this “humus” which perhaps gives an easier way of understanding the word “humility” - essentially it means being grounded. That’s a really simple definition, but

I like it.

ROSH E E N & KE ITH g RAYT W E N T Y O N E

Humility is seen as a virtue of the Christian faith. There are so many references to it in the Bible. One of the most beautiful must be from Matthew’s record of Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus reflects on true happiness, and in 5:5 “Happy are

those who are humble; they will receive what God has promised!” and in Paul’s letter to the Philippians where he pleads with the people to turn away from selfish ambition and pride, and to be humble. Again from the Good News Bible 2:5 “Don’t do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble

towards one another, always considering others better than yourselves.”

Humility, as I see it, is essential to onesself-worth and is frequently seen in leadership roles, and increasingly as an essential trait to effective leadership. Quoting from a Harvard Business School blog that I read: “A sense of humility is essential to leadership because it authenticates a person’s humanity. We

humans are frail creatures; we have our faults.

‘HAPPy ARE THOSE wHO ARE HUMbLE; THEy wILLREcEIvE wHAT GOD HAS PROMISED!’


Recognizing what we do well, as well as what we do not do so well, is vital to

self-awareness and paramount to humility.”

As you “come of age” and step in the world, as you will do, as a medical practitioner, you will by the very nature of your vocation be a leader

of people. You will be firm, you will be sure and strong, affirming of others, never proud or boastful, free of pride and arrogance, as these

are the traits that you already display.

One of my favourite prayers is that attributed to saint Francis of Assisi, The following variation

on the prayer was delivered by Mother Theresa when she addressed the United Nations in 1985:

Make us worthy Lord to serve our fellow men throughout the world,

who live and die in poverty and hunger.Give them through our hands, this day,

their daily breadand by our understanding love give

peace and joy.

ROSH E E N & KE ITH g RAYT W E N T Y O N E

Lord, make me a channel of thy peace.That where there is hatred I may bring love,

That where there is wrong, I may bringthe spirit of forgiveness,

That where there is discord,I may bring harmony,

That where there is error I may bring truth,That where there is doubt I may bring faith,

That where there is despairI may bring hope,

That where there are shadowsI may bring light,

That where there is sadness I may bring joy. Lord, grant that I may seek rather to

comfort than to be comforted,To understand than to be understood,

To love than to be loved.For it is by forgetting self that one finds.

It is by forgiving that one is forgiven,it is by dying that one awakens to eternal life.

Amen

With our love and congratulations on your coming of age, Keith, Rosheen,

Cuan and Claire

‘DOn’T DO AnyTHInG fROM SELfISH AMbITIOn OR fROM A cHEAP DESIRE TO bOAST, bUT bE HUMbLE TOwARDS OnE

AnOTHER, ALwAyS cOnSIDERInG OTHERSbETTER THAn yOURSELvES’


I have always believed you to be responsible beyond your years. You demonstrated self-responsibility at school because you took

charge of your own learning. You completed assignments on time, studied for tests, took

responsibility for your own learning mistakes or failures, and performed to the best of your ability. You recognized the importance of your parents and teachers as learning partners but

very firmly took control andownership of the process.

You gave back to the school by being a wonderful role model for younger students.

You were prepared to get involved and actually demonstrate what it means to be responsible.

You took on leadership opportunities and carried out each job

with full commitment.

You have continued to demonstrateself-responsibility by managing your university

SU E FOR R E STT W E N T Y O N E

commitments, holding down a part time job, as well as volunteering

your time to help others.

You are going to embark on a career in which people will place full trust in you. This in itself is a huge future responsibility for you to live up to and one you will no doubt take in your stride.

I do not think there is anything I can add to your knowledge about what it means to be a

responsible person. You walkthe talk every day.

All the best for your 21st. You are a wonderful young woman with a bright future ahead of you. You have a fantastic support network

around you who will be with you every step of the way.

Love from Sue.

VIVIAN JACOB ST W E N T Y O N E

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