Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Naming a Travel Mate

So, I am here in Gaborone, Botswana attending the University of Botswana and a special travel mate suggested I give her a Setswana name. Not only are we travel mates from the U.S but are birthday twins (May 10th).

Her American name is Victoria.

I told Tori at the Braai (barbecue) that she brings positive energy and an optimistic perspective to everything. Even when I want to be frustrated and stressed about time in a slow paced environment, she genuinely looks on the bright side of things. Her positive energy is contagious and her spirit is very sincere. This is why I named her Boitumelo which means Joy/Happiness. She brings joy. She brings happiness. In the short amount of time that I've known her, I have been touched by her kindness and authentic concern for others. She offers her support and assistance not because she wants anything in return but because she cares.

The second name I chose for her is Setunya.  From what I read initially, Setunya meant flower/ bloom. Tori's positive attitude makes her similar to a flower. On any occasion, she makes things look better and smell better. I also chose this name because I wanted to charge Tori to love herself and not be afraid to blossom into the wonderful flower she is. We need to see her colorful peddles because it is from her peddles that we see joy. And I'm sure her closer friends and family can agree that she contributes positively to the happiness of others.


And what Mma Bianca shared with me at the Braai made the name Setunya more special.  Mma Bianca told me that Setunya is not just any flower. It is a specific flower. It is Henna. For those who don't know, the powder form of henna is turned into an ink and used to draw art onto a woman's body. Many people refer to them as henna tattoos. Henna can also be used as a hair dye. This flower has the power to enhance beauty and bestow smiles onto blank faces.

Tori, I hope you like the names I have chosen for you. Never forget that you are special, awesome and all that other good stuff. :) In the meantime, while we're here Lets Conquer Africa! In a good way :)





















Images from Google

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