During my last trip to the field, I meet this Maman:
I am honouring her here today.
Because you took me in, without knowing my name or my language
that day our vehicule was stuck in your tiny village
Because your were deeply honoured to have me sleep on your best cot
while you were left to sleep in a dilapidated mud hut
Because you are raising 10 grown children
without the help of a husband by your side (he exists but is unseen)
Because you smiled for the full 24 hours
I spent with you and your girls
Because, in you, I can see the way my ancestors lived
and it inspires me to continue working in health and development
I honour you, woman from that little village in Kole.
(posted a day early...just in case)
12 comments:
THAT, is a good story, well told.
That was a great story. Thanks once again for emailing me and answering my questions. You really inspire me.
She's beautiful. Quel honneur!
That's a beautiful post. Made me tear up. Thanks, and happy woman's day to you, my courageous 007!
Even the picture without the words tell everything about the lovely mother!!!! Thank you
Strength exemplified.
Thank you for sharing this with us. Happy IWD day.
Very inspirational. It makes me proud to be the son of an African woman... a great woman, period, Happy Woman's day to all the ladies (and men too).
Great Story, that is why we call Africa Mama Africa and she is A Mama
Mahal
I saw the "Heads Up" on your post over at Global Voices Online (ref: IWD - In Honour of African Women).
This is beautiful what you have written today about this mother from Kole, DRC. You have made her immortal with your words and this photo of her on your blog, as she has touched you with her kindness and generosity during your brief stay in her impoverished village.
Happy International Women's Day 007 in Africa and ditto to the rest of the laidies in the Congo Crew. You women are what it's all about today. Really.
Thanks everyone for your very nice comments! I am very flattered :) Next time I drive into her village, I'll give her a few copies of photos I took of her and her house.
Better that any speech, your poem and photo are beautiful ...
I am also full of respect for african women, their smile and patience are as big as their courage.
I'm afraid no comment I could make would do justice to this post.
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