Our journey continues. After admiring the immensity of the ocean, we now face another vastness: that of an arid land, where the sun dries out the branches, brushwood slowly sprouts, and life adapts to daily challenges. We are in the savannah.
Here, under a baobab tree, we meet a tribal chief – a wise, imposing, and respected man. We place our backpack in the dust and approach. His eyes are as deep as water wells, his low voice resonates like a drum, and his hands are marked by dust and the labours of his land. On his head is a crown of stones and feathers – symbols of his bond with nature. Leaning against the massive tree, he carefully carves his spear with a bone knife.
Suddenly, the wind picks up. The sky darkens, and a sandstorm envelops us. We cover our faces with cloth and find shelter in a tent. We sit by a wineskin of water and wait.
‘How do your people survive in such a hostile environment?’
‘We have learned to live with the unexpected, to read the signs of nature, to cooperate and support one another. The memory of our history guides us. Organisation helps us overcome difficulties. Patience and harmony protect us.’
‘So, what lessons does this land teach you?’
‘That together we are stronger. That knowledge is essential for survival and growth. And that the ability to adapt – even in the most difficult circumstances – is fundamental.’
The storm subsides. The tribal chief emerges from our shelter with the calm of someone who knows every grain of sand beneath his feet, and with the pride of one who has survived yet another adversity. We follow him. His words echo in our minds, reminding us of the importance of understanding the laws of nature, of remembering our history, of moving swiftly yet surely, of living collaboratively to overcome difficulties, and of the power of organisation, calm, and harmony.
Another valuable lesson to carry in our wealth of knowledge. On to the next place, to the next encounter.
26/05/2025
