The phrase `` DIT IS ONS ERNS '' ( `` we are earnest ( about this ) '' , or `` this is our earnestness '' ) is inscribed on the pathway leading up to the monument . The phrase `` DIT IS ONS ERNS '' ( roughly `` we are earnest ( about this ) '' , or `` this is our earnestness '' ) is emblazoned on the pathway leading up to the monument .