So, after the burst of reflection on my trip to Mali, I had an epiphany of sorts. It occurred to me that I need to learn Bambara if I want to understand anything about the culture of the Bamana. So, on Friday, I started with Bambara lessons with my friend and drum teacher. And you know what? I am totally excited about it. All day yesterday I was listening to the recording he made for me. I wrote up some flash cards and practiced for a long time, over and over again, trying to get the accent right, the sounds, the rhythm. Like drumming, sort of.
God speaks to us in the language we understand. Shouldn't we try and do the same?
I will be so happy to be able to speak the language of Mali and not just the colonial French.
2 comments:
Are you still sure you are not planning on emigrating? LOL
Hey John,
I am definitely planning to go back! I am hoping to go next January. As for emigrating, I think that will have to wait for at least a few years. I have work to do here.
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