The Tale of Joy and Heartache Final Episode

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Mmathabo sat quietly in the kitchen, a cup of tea warming her trembling hands. Her thoughts were heavy, her heart restless as she wondered what was going on in the world. Life had become so unpredictable. While she was lost in thought, her father, Mohau, walked in and noticed the sadness on her face. “My child, why are you so sad?” Mohau asked gently. Mmathabo sighed deeply before answering. “I have bad news. Palesa and the baby have been taken to the provincial hospital. The doctors say the child is not in a good condition.” Mohau moved closer to her. “My child, everything will be fine. We need to have faith,” he said, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. “I hope so,” Mmathabo whispered. “I pray my granddaughter and her baby will be safe.”

“That is the spirit,” Mohau replied softly. “We must speak life, not fear. Everything will be alright.”


A week passed, and Palesa’s baby was still in the neonatal ward. The machines beeped constantly, and the sterile smell of the hospital filled the air. Each day felt longer than the last. Slowly, hope began to slip from Palesa’s heart. Standing beside the tiny hospital crib, she called her mother. “Hello, Ma… I’m starting to lose hope,” Palesa said, her voice breaking. “What if my baby dies?”

“No, my dear,” Mmathabo answered firmly. “That won’t happen. I trust the doctors there. Keep praying. Your baby is strong.” Palesa wiped her tears, but the pain remained heavy in her chest. “Teboho is somewhere enjoying his life while I am suffering alone,” she said bitterly. “Forget about him,” Mmathabo responded. “Teboho has shown you his true colours. A man who loves you does not abandon you in your darkest hour.” Those words sank deep into Palesa’s heart. In that moment, she made a silent promise to herself , she would no longer chase someone who had already walked away.


Days later, hope finally triumphed over fear. The baby recovered. Mohau welcomed the child with open arms, accepting him fully as his own blood. Love replaced sorrow in their home. With renewed strength, Palesa found a decent job and devoted herself to raising her child. She no longer waited for Teboho. She no longer cried for him. She had survived the storm. She was building her own sunshine.


Brian Makara, 2026.

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