EDITORIAL: A mother's love never grows old

Few forces are as enduring as a mother's love. It asks for little, gives everything and leaves an imprint that lasts a lifetime. At Epukiro Post 3 in the Omaheke Region, that love has a face. It belongs to 90-year-old Anna Jan, who still wakes each morning to care for her 66-year-old daughter. In a world that often measures worth by wealth, youth and independence, Anna reminds us that love is measured by sacrifice. Their story is also a reminder that many Namibian families continue to carry burdens the economy cannot. Two old-age pensions of N$1 600 each must cover medicine, food and every other necessity, yet neither mother nor daughter speaks of giving up. Instead, they speak of helping one another, sharing what little they have and facing each month together. There comes a time when children are expected to care for ageing parents. Anna's life reminds us that motherhood does not keep a calendar. It does not retire at 60, 70 or even 90. Some loves fade with time. A mother's love simply endures. It remains one of humanity's greatest gifts.