COLUMN: Bert enriched my soul
“Taking stock of all the people I have met, I am reminded how each one has had a profound impact on my life.”

In my line of work I have the privilege of meeting a pallet of colourful people, all in varying seasons of their lives.
I get to giggle with Grade Ones as they start their schooling journey.
I have the opportunity to wholeheartedly celebrate with matriculants as they collect hard-earned results.
I also raise a glass when local groups and organisations reach momentous achievements.
If it happens in Benoni, chances are that I get a sneak peek as building blocks are neatly stacked to reach platforms of success.
Sipping on a cup of coffee, I have been drawn into the world of a trinket collector and witnessed a child-like flicker in a pensioners’ eyes as he talks about his enjoyment of word puzzles.
In my three years at the Benoni City Times I have met some of the most awe-inspiring individuals, many of whom have burrowed deep into the chambers of my heart. People who enrich my soul.
One such person is Rynpark 4’s Bert Denman, a man who gently walked this planet for more than a century.
Having had the honour to celebrate three of his birthdays with him and his doting wife, Ann, I got to spend time with a man who has seen our world change at a rapid pace.
Behind his brilliant blue eyes, Bert carried not only a wealth of knowledge but wisdom about living a purposeful life.
His passing, at the age of 104, brought a dull ache to my heart and a sad reminder of how the loss of a single individual can have such a profound impact on your life.
As we walk into a new year, I am taking stock of all the precious community members who entrust me with their stories.
Journalism is about bringing news that is factual, correct and relevant.
As a community journalist, I am held by a strict code of ethics with the benefit of journeying with my community. My people. My Benoni.
To you, dear Mr Denman, may your soul rest in eternal peace while your legacy forever lives on.
ALSO READ: COLUMN: Protection of women is everyone’s business
ALSO READ: COLUMN: Print is source of truth in misinformation era