Ematsanga ahlantela labangenamabhodo.

“Pumpkins ripen for those who have no pots to cook them in.”

Good fortune often comes to people who are not expecting it or are not yet ready to receive it.

Sihlahla asinyelwa.

“A tree that gives you shade should not be fouled.”

Do not turn against those who have helped you, or make needless enemies — you may need their shelter again.

Umntfwana longakhali ufela embelekweni.

“The child who does not cry dies on its mother's back.”

Those who stay silent about their troubles may suffer and never receive the help they need.

Litsemba alibulali.

“Hope does not kill.”

Holding on to hope has never harmed anyone; stay optimistic even when things look lost.

Sala kutjelwa sibona ngemopho.

“Refuse to be told, and you will learn by the scar.”

Those who ignore the advice of people who know better will learn the same lesson the hard way.

Indlela ibutwa kulabasembili.

“The way is asked of those who have already walked it.”

The best guidance comes from elders and those with lived experience.