A Man Without Culture - is like a zebra without stripes

"Lesedi cultural center provided a day of singing, chanting, “clicking” dancing and story-telling. We enjoyed the crafts, sights and sounds of Africa.

Friendly smiles greeted us as we danced with the natives as they welcomed us to the village. Artisans displayed their beaded handiwork and a marimba band made it impossible to stand still. The innovative natives played checkers on a game board painted on a flat stone. Rocks and bottle caps were used as checkers. Grunts, gasps and groans accompanied the intense game as if the stakes were sky-high. It was almost as much fun watching them take a checkers break as it was enjoying their musical performance. They wanted their pictures taken with us more than we wanted to pose with them. They called me “mama,” a respectful greeting for older women.

Refreshments were provided but not consumed by this mama! Dried mopane worms, otherwise known as caterpillars, were served in a flat, woven basket in one of the small villages. They provide an important source of protein for millions of indigenous Southern Africans. Thankfully, I’m an American and haven’t been that hungry yet.

We observed three generations of beading experts fashion and sell their wares. I bought an intricate black and white beaded necklace. At work one morning I felt a “bug” scamper down the back of my neck. It was followed by several others. Twisting and scratching I tried to smash the tiny invaders. Then I noticed a trail of them bouncing off the floor. It was then I discovered that my beautiful new beaded necklace was made to self-destruct on the first use. Although my souvenir necklace only lasted a few minutes, the memories of Lesedi will last a lifetime." - Sister Basso