18/06/2026
*Our Journey: From Grade 11 to Now*
*Grade 11: Where it all started*
Our relationship start - in Grade 11. I remember that day. We were just kids, sitting under that tree after class. You were the girl who always had my back, and I was the boy who threw up those funny hand signs thinking I was cool. We didn’t have much, but we had each other. Even then, I knew you were different. When you leaned on my shoulder like that, the whole world felt quiet.
Grade 12 was tough. Exams, pressure, everyone asking “what next?” But we studied together, shared one textbook sometimes, and promised we’d both make it out.
*College: Growing, but still us*
Then came the first picture - me in white, you behind me making that heart with your hands. That was right after I got into college. You were still in your school uniform, cheering me on. I remember taking that selfie. You said, “Do the heart!” and I pretended I didn’t see, but I was smiling inside.
College was far. The money was short. Some days I ate once. But your messages kept me going. You’d say “Bwela mudala, you’ve got this.” I came home on weekends just to see you in that same school corridor. We were building something, even when it hurt.
*Now: Our little family*
No more uniforms. Just me and my wife, chilling. You doing your funny face, me with my arm around you like “yeah, she’s mine.” We made it.
We’re not kids anymore. We’ve got responsibilities. We’ve got a little one now who has your eyes and my stubbornness. Some nights the baby won’t sleep and we’re both tired. But then I look at you, and I remember Grade 11 under that tree. I remember you making hearts behind my back when I acted tough.
We came from “will we make it?” to “we did it.” From school shoes to paying our own bills. From two dreamers to a family of three.
Thank you for walking with me from then to now. The uniform changed. The location changed. But us? We’re still that team. I love you very much bana jnr chota
