A Grade 11 student from Hilton College, Guy Fender, has gained attention for his essay titled “Maybe yesterday. Maybe today. I still can’t be sure,” which reflects on grief following the death of his mother. The essay was shared by the school on Facebook on Thursday and has received over 13,000 likes, along with numerous comments and shares. Fender achieved a rare 100% grade for his work, demonstrating a mature understanding of complex emotions surrounding loss.
The narrative portrays the protagonist’s experience through various feelings, including shock, sadness, and moments of joy, particularly when recalling a note from his mother. Fender emphasizes that amidst grief, it is often the small memories that linger. He details complicated family dynamics, illustrating his relationship with his mother, who he describes as both flawed and deeply loved.
The essay not only addresses the theme of grief but also the intricacies of familial relationships, particularly through the lens of a brief separation from his mother. Fender’s writing encapsulates diverse emotions and touches upon the resilience found in love despite challenges.
To read the full essay, visit Hilton College’s Facebook page.
- Why it matters:
- This essay serves as a reflection on grief, resonating with many readers who may have experienced similar losses.
- It highlights the importance of articulating emotions, which can benefit those dealing with loss in various personal and professional contexts.
- The latest:
- Guy Fender’s essay continues to gain traction on social media, reinforcing discussions around mental health and grief.
Source: https://witness.co.za/news/2025/09/13/hilton-college-pupil-goes-viral-for-powerful-meditation-on-grief/
Source: https://witness.co.za/news/2025/09/13/hilton-college-pupil-goes-viral-for-powerful-meditation-on-grief/