Sunday, December 2, 2007

Trying to act like a chief

I was walking from the school building the other day when it looked like it was going to downpour.  One of the African teachers that works here was walking beside me.   He told me this story about the African philosophy of rain.  He said that the chief of a village is not allowed to take cover during the rains if he is caught out of doors during a storm.   He is supposed to walk proudly through his village as if he is unaffected by the rain.  Because if he were to hide his head, it would be as if he was cursing the rain in front of his people and therefore drive away the much needed rain.   So the teacher said the moral of the story for me is that I shouldn't duck my head when it rains, I should walk proudly as if I am unaffected just like the chief.   Little does he know what a wet-fabric-phobic person that I am.  I was not quite convinced this was the best way to react to the torrential African downpours, but I gave it a shot just to see how it changed my perspective on it. My consensus is that I'm thankful I'm not a chief.   I will continue to try to make peace with my wet-fabric syndrome all the while trying to stay as dry as possible during the inevitable rains.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I've seen you wet...your not to happy, but I'm glad your trying to embrace the rain. Good thing you got a rain jacket. Love you!

Anonymous said...

Wow Jessica, they really are trying to stretch you aren't they! Walk as if you are not affected by the rain? Somehow I can't see it, but good for you for trying. There's about 10 inches of snow here, I think I'd rather walk in the rain. Miss you! Mary

Anonymous said...

Jess, finally got to catch up on your life by reading your journals! Been praying for you and can literally picture your footsteps as you make your way through each day. :) I see you are providing assistance for horse care, but have they gotten you up to ride yet? love and prayers, karen