Lady Luck

As I walked into the lavender smelling room, I was warmly greeted by a poised welcoming face. Thando Mafu was dressed impeccably; she sat very lady like, with her legs neatly crossed and her hands were placed gracefully on her lap. Rhodes University is known to transform even the most conservative of students. Coming from a well knitted home environment, to a whole new culture where students strive to be independent and stand out, was an awkward feeling. But Miss Mafu also known as “Lady Luck” is determined to show this small town that she is not just another pretty face.
Growing up as a child with a single mother was difficult but Thando’s mother made sure that her only daughter was always dressed well in pretty pinks and reds. Being the only girl in the house Mrs. Mafu made sure Thando always wore very girly things incase she turned out like a Tom boy. Thando’s mom had a very influential role in the clothes her little girl bought. Thando said her mom and herself bonded over shopping trips, but her mom insisted on coming along to so that Thando would not buy boyish clothing. One of Thando’s favorite memories of clothing is her Mickey Mouse tops and matching tights.
Just like many kids who come here after growing up in a bit city Thando felt it hard to adapt from big city life to a small student town environment. The biggest challenge of any first year is adapting into the life of a university student, but Thando had one more challenge to deal with the news of her step father’s death came as a shock. Her defense strategy was to put on a brave face for the sake of her family and friends. Going through pain usually makes a person stronger, In Thando’s case she remained herself to a certain degree, and this incident just showed her that one should cherish the people you have in life while they are alive. Thando said “as a person you grow and some habits you decide to leave and carry after, but some remain the same but when you venture into other grounds you discover yourself even more”.
Since coming to Rhodes Thando’s fashion sense has broadened because of the different people she has met and had come across. On an average day her dress code would be a standard jeans and t-shirts. With widened eyes and flowing hand movements she expressed her love for wearing pretty things once in a while. She has a fetish for long hanging ear rings and her thumb ring which is a family heirloom. Her character can be compared to a princess due to the fact that her timeless class, charming smiles her delicate poise and graceful walk.
Her choices of clothes always look sleek and trendy, when shopping our Lady Luck is also a smart and economical shopper. To take this piece to another level Thando and I went on our own little shopping spree, and with wide glowing eyes sparkling bright when she came across the perfect mini skirt which made me waft back to the image of a little child enjoying an ice cream. As I exited the room after a very productive I saw that timeless million dollar smile, which just made my day.

Dear mini-me

Dearest mini-me

Wow, I can’t believe that it’s been almost nine months since you’ve embarked on the journey that is university. I can still remember your nervous excitement during that excruciating eleven hour drive to Grahamstown, followed by that sinking feeling when you finally pulled into High Street and realised just how small town really is.

Little did you know how familiar you would become with town and all its little streets as well as how the quaintness of Grahamstown would grow on you, despite its rather limited shopping scene. So, instead of indulging in one of your favourite pastimes, shopping, you have to find other ways to keep busy, be it taking make-up lessons with friends, having spur of the moment “sleepovers” or movie nights in Res and more importantly experimenting with and learning cook all the important food groups namely: chips, popcorn, cheese, noodles and croissants in the microwave!

Another great way to make use of your somewhat limited free time is by taking driving lessons. It’s a great move toward independence but believe you me, it doesn’t come without its ups and downs. No, you didn’t injure yourself or anyone else for that matter...well...not yet, but you did however fail the road test. Now, I know you’re probably upset by this news but don’t let it get to you. In hindsight, failure was just what you needed to keep you level headed especially as all the other aspects of your life were going well and you started to view the world through rose tinted glasses.

Looking back and considering all your reservations about leaving the comfort and security of home, I would say that you really have nothing to worry about. Rhodes is great, well except at the end of short terms when you’re swamped with work and have to meet seemingly impossible deadlines. Other than that, I’m sure that you’ll find this never ending adventure and quest for self-discovery and independence to be quite fulfilling. You will also meet some of the most amazing and interesting people here. You’ll also see more bare feet in your first two weeks here, than you’ve seen your whole life!

I’d like to leave you with a word of advice before you embark on this journey: take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, you’ll soon discover that it really is worth it and remember what Bliss Blass says, “when in doubt, wear red”!

Bon Voyage!

Love,
Your older and slightly wiser self