The message for more love and peace, in your own home and community, as a way of fostering peace worldwide was given to us by Yacouba Sissoko, an African Malian Griot. A Griot keeps the historical traditions of their Mali culture alive through their music and stories.
We had the great pleasure of presenting Yacouba Sissoko, master Kora player from Mali, through GreenRoom Exchange. In short time, he had a theater full of people up dancing with joy! It was a heartfelt, heartwarming, exuberant experience!
Here are some of the messages Yacouba gave to us:
GET TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER – DON’T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS
When you see a snake, you may immediately be afraid, but not all snakes are dangerous – you have to get to know them. This analogy was made for all of us. We make assumptions about people, groups of people, it’s an unfair and dangerous habit. Get to know one another first.
BE MORE TOLERANT – WE ALL HAVE FLAWS
You know the saying that if you point a finger at someone, you also have 3 fingers pointing back at you. We all have flaws and while it is easy to pick at those we love and care about it. It is better to learn to be more tolerant.
LOVE IT LIKE AN EGG
No matter how much love you give and how generous you are, love is fragile. There are certain behaviors that can break even the most long-standing relationships. Friendships and love all require nurturing, consistent nurturing. Treat those you love like a fragile egg and protect your relationships.
HAVE AMBITION AND HAVE FUN
Yes, go ahead and be ambitious, make something of yourself, but don’t forget to have fun. Love, dance, be joyous. Keep the love and joy of life at the forefront.
DON’T ABUSE YOUR POWER
We all have certain degrees of power, especially our leaders. With this power comes responsibility to do what we say we are going to do and to treat people equally, not fostering divisiveness. Peace will be more prevalent if we take this seriously.
What do you take from this message? Reach out if you’d like to explore it.
