Introductions (Prequel)

2D

Atsila

Studying Standard language is hard. Not everyone uses it when speaking, as it has become something newer generations are studying, while the older generations are not exactly required to. Because of this, the newer generations, including me, are left to practice on our own and with each other. This is especially difficult when we unconsciously switch back to our native language - Nyanja.

In those moments, I wish that we were at peace with the other groups of people so that we could practice with them. But, after those thoughts, I remember that, even if we could talk with other tribes, the Chief and elders would disapprove. There are too many prejudices for them to simply just let go, though I think they really should.

The elders are talking of the dry season coming soon, and the adults will have to harvest soon. After the harvests, everyone who has harnessed their Fire will help burn down the excess plants in the fields and gardens to prepare nutrients in the ground for next year.

This year, I get to help blaze the ground after the crops have all been picked, and I am stoked. I finally get to help out with the harvest!

After the harvest comes the Chikondwerero cha Moto - or Fire Festival. The festival is a celebration of the people's hard work to sustain the tribe, and these celebrations last three whole days. The first night: feasts. All of the tribe gathers around to collect, prepare, and eat good food. This is many of my people's favorite part of the festival; with many people to meet and converse with and so much fun to be had, it's easy for the first day to be many people's favorite.

The second day: games and entertainment. Many will sign up to play different games with balls and goals and rackets for sport, while other like to watch. Or, like me, would rather see some perform tricks and acts and daring escapes with their Fire. It is always a delight to see what kinds of new ideas the performers come up with each year.

The third day: final celebration and thanking of the Spirits. On the last day of the festival, we have a night of dancing and praying. We will set up an enormous bonfire in the center of town, and dance the Kuvina Kwamoto - or Fire Dance. My older brother, Joda, has done the dance six years in a row now, and is considered an honored warrior to respect, even at his age. He promised to teach me the dance for the third night of the festival this year, that I might participate and honor our ancestors.

I can only hope that the Spirits will smile down upon me.

What with harvest coming soon, I will need to up my studies, to show off my willingness to learn and my skill to take on what is thrown at me. If I can speak several sentences in the Standard language as well as write in both Nyanja and Standard, the elders - and hopefully our ancestors - will honor and respect me more.

I realize that it has been a long time since I have gotten lost in thought, and rush to dive back into my studies. I will need them very soon!