Prominance Sinomusa Khumalo
Saturday witnessed heartwarming celebrations as retired Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) Senior cameraman Solomon Tongoona Chinhara and his wife, Alice Chinhara Khoza, marked 51 years of marriage.
The golden jubilee anniversary held at their West Acre Farm was attended by family, friends, neighbors, and church members.
The couple renewed their vows in the presence of all sundry in a church service led by Father D. Tembo of the Anglican Nkulumane’s Holy Family Parish. The couple reaffirmed their commitment to each other by renewing the traditional “for better, for worse, in sickness and in health and for richer and richer” vows.
Alice Chinhara Khoza, affectionately known as Makho, attributed their enduring marriage to mutual respect.
“Women should respect their husbands and not contradict their (husband’s) words,” she advised.
“A wife must humble herself at all times. Even when you see that your husband is lying, just humble yourself and let go of the issue.”
She went on,
“Our marriage has been like any other. It was not smooth sailing. We have had many challenges, but I stood by my husband, it is the reason we are celebrating this milestone today.”
Solomon Chinhara shared the story of how he met Alice and emphasized the importance of domestic violence.
“Men, never raise a hand to your wife,” he urged.
“Yes women will talk, and they do, but never, ever raise your hand. You can fight using your mouths yes, disagree yes, talk as much but not using physicality.
“Women are of weak nature, when you raise your hand what do you think you will be hitting? You will end up fifty years in jail for something that needed you to keep your mouth shut. When she shouts, juts ignore.”
Solomon Chinhara encouraged prayerfulness.
“Even in my past life, when I indulged in liquor, I never went to bed without praying, no matter how drunk I was.”
Their first daughter, Sinenhlanhla, who surprised them by flying all the way from Britain were she is based, praised her parents for setting an exemplary standard.
“They’ve inspired us and our younger generation with their love and values.”
Makhoza’s brother, Dr. Augustine Khoza, expressed joy for his sister.
“The journey wasn’t easy, but she persevered. I’m proud of her.
“I remember when I first met my Mkhwenyana, Solomon, I arrived home and found him seated with my father. Then my sister, Alice, came and said bhudi (brother), your friend has since been waiting for you.”
Dr. Khoza went on to say, he did not know Solomon at the time, but he read between the lines and played along.
“Ever since we have been friends.”
Their firstborn son Sibonginkosi, was overwhelmed with emotion, struggling to express his happiness.
When asked to say a word, instead, he called his younger brother, Shingai and Sinenhlanhla and the three entertained the crowd with impromptu jokes.
Part of the Family Voice Choir entertained the gathering with their melodious voices, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Chinhara family’s commitment serves as a shining example to all. Nowadays marriages ate referred to 2 minute noodles. Quick to set to be consumed and as quick to finish.
Marriages are falling apart and soon this will become a pandemic. Youngsters of today must heed Solomon and Alice, learn from their example and maybe we will witness long lasting marriages.
Zim GBC News©2024