Can we get back to the old ways of caring for our communities……
Before I get into this article, let’s take time to sing this hook that only the old heads will know.
Back in the days when I was young I’m not a kid anymore
But some days I sit and wish I was a kid again
Back in the days when I was young I’m not a kid anymore
But some days I sit and wish I was a kid again
Now that I have you in your moment of nostalgia, let’s take a look at what the artist Ahmad meant by this very song and how I am going to bring it back to the African proverb. Ahmad was reminiscing about the simpler and more innocent times of the past. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing for the past and a desire to recapture the feelings of youth and innocence.
I remember the times when every adult in the neighborhood could discipline you when you were not doing the right thing. A time when everyone looked out for everyone and you felt you were a part of a bigger picture. A time when you got into a fight with your best friend and five minutes later, you two were back out playing like nothing ever happened.
In my most humble opinion, these are the times I would pay to rewind and relive again.
That time period has shaped me and has led my work when dealing with the youth.
In the heart of Africa’s rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, a simple yet profound proverb, “I am because we are,” resonates like a timeless echo across generations. This African adage encapsulates the essence of community, reflecting the intricate interdependence that binds individuals into a collective whole. Beyond its linguistic elegance, this proverb embodies a profound philosophy that speaks to the very core of our shared human experience. As we go deeper into the meaning of “I am because we are,” we uncover its resonances with the age-old wisdom that “it takes a village to raise a child.”
A Tapestry of Unity
“I am because we are” transcends language barriers and geographical boundaries, illuminating the universal truth that our individual identities are intrinsically woven into the fabric of our communities. This profound interconnectedness is never more apparent than in the context of raising children. The wisdom embodied in the proverb “it takes a village to raise a child” echoes the sentiment that the upbringing of a child is a collective effort, a harmonious dance of shared responsibility and care.
In the heart of an African village, the spirit of this proverb comes alive. Every child is not only the offspring of their biological parents but a cherished member of the larger community. A child’s journey through life is shaped not only by the guidance of their immediate family but also by the collective wisdom of elders, the playful interactions with peers, and the watchful eyes of neighbors. Here, the village philosophy is not just a concept; it is a way of life that nurtures and sustains the growth of every child.
Ubuntu: Cultivating Young Minds
The village philosophy finds a kindred spirit in the African concept of Ubuntu. Ubuntu, often translated as “I am because we are,” speaks to the idea that our individual well-being is intertwined with the well-being of others. Nowhere is this interconnectedness more evident than in the nurturing of the youngest members of society.
In the context of raising children, Ubuntu translates to a profound sense of shared responsibility. Every member of the community contributes to the education, values, and character formation of the next generation. Parents, teachers, extended family, and even the community at large play a role in shaping the minds and hearts of children. In doing so, they collectively sow the seeds of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility that will guide these young individuals as they mature into active participants in the wider world.
Weaving the Village Philosophy into Modern Life
In our modern world, where individualism often takes center stage, the village philosophy and its alignment with “I am because we are” offer timeless insights. The sentiment that “it takes a village to raise a child” holds a mirror to our shared humanity, reminding us of the vital importance of nurturing connections and fostering a sense of belonging.
Consider the challenges parents face today: the juggling act of work, education, extracurricular activities, and the myriad demands of modern life. The village philosophy serves as a beacon of support, encouraging the creation of supportive communities where parents can lean on each other, share experiences, and collectively contribute to the growth and development of their children.
Empathy and Mentorship
The village philosophy also underscores the power of mentorship and the transmission of knowledge across generations. In the embrace of this philosophy, elders become invaluable sources of wisdom, guiding the younger generation through life’s challenges and opportunities. The stories of the past become the guiding stars of the present, illuminating the path forward.
In this way, “I am because we are” intersects with the village proverb, emphasizing that the cycle of life is enriched through the exchange of knowledge and experiences. Children benefit from the collective wisdom of their elders, while elders find renewed purpose and a sense of continuity as they pass down the torch of knowledge.
This portion sounds a little bit like restorative justice practices that our indigenous folks practiced for so long huh!!!??
Don’t worry, I’ll wait…………………………….
Indigenous ancestors around the world often employed restorative justice practices, circles, and reconciliation as integral components of their cultural traditions to foster storytelling, healing, and community well-being within their villages. These practices emphasize the interconnectedness of individuals, communities, and the environment, aiming to address harm, restore relationships, and ensure the overall health of the community. While practices varied among different indigenous cultures
My Final Thoughts — Embracing Unity in Raising the Next Generation
“I am because we are” speaks to the profound truth that our individual identities are intricately woven into the larger tapestry of humanity. In the context of raising children, this sentiment takes on a special significance. The village philosophy, embodied in the adage “it takes a village to raise a child,” encapsulates the essence of shared responsibility, empathy, and interconnectedness.
As we reflect on these timeless proverbs, let us celebrate the beauty of the village philosophy and its resonance with the interconnected spirit of “I am because we are.” In embracing unity and community, we create an environment where children are nurtured not only by the love of their immediate families but also by the collective care of the village. Just as a single thread contributes to the strength of the entire fabric, each member of the community plays a role in shaping the young minds and hearts that will carry our shared humanity forward.
Can we work on making this culture the norm again?
Asking for a few friends that are frustrated with how things are going these days.
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