My Perspective of Life

"Don't let life weigh you down. You've come this far because the Almighty has a plan for your life. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here. Believe it. Embrace the journey. Don't see each day as a chore. Treat it as a blessing. Not many get to experience it. Be grateful, THANK HIM" (Menk, 2020). My Perspective of Life: A Journey with Many Detours is an expression of Coselelo Matomela's views on life. He was born in the Herschel District, in the small town of Qhoboshane Village, Sterkspruit, the same village as playwright and author Professor Zakes Mda. His autobiography relates, in his simplest terms, the journey he has travelled, dealing with the challenges, setbacks and disappointments he has encountered head-on throughout his career. When corporate and social mobility become challenging; when every endeavour in life is an uphill battle to the detractors' delight, one can either succumb to depression or keep striving. Matomela believes many people are under the impression that tomorrow will always be better than yesterday. Depression and giving up are never solutions. My Perspective of Life: A Journey with Many Detours is also a motivation to others in the same predicament. Never give up in life! Never allow yourself to be reduced to the status of an insignificant fellow or relegated to the dustbin of history by some inconsiderate human beings. Pursue your dreams, whatever the costs – it might take a little longer than expected, but persevere nonetheless. Know God is watching. This book attempts to address various questions including: • High expectations versus huge disappointments in life. • Surviving a hostile work environment and considering available options. • Recognising and dealing with psychological and social pressures. • Overcoming depression and dealing with life's setbacks. The book acknowledges many people who have inspired the author. It is also an expression of gratitude and a befitting tribute to his late parents. There can never be a wish so great than honouring one's parents' legacy. "What keeps me going is to remember that even though life may seem dark and gloomy and the skies cloudy, one fine day the sun will shine, creating a new rainbow after the disappointments of the past – for in life, there is no permanent condition. Trust the Almighty GOD, your ancestors and the universe will support your dreams." - Coselelo Matomela