Knowledge is Power

There is a common belief in many African cultures that Knowledge is Power. I agree with this idea. What I disagree with is that many seem to think that they have more power if they keep it to themselves instead of spreading the knowledge.

Yesterday and today I've witnessed the interest and enthusiasm of two groups of older women who are learning from a missionary nurse about HIV/AIDS. The role of these elder women in the church is to mentor the younger women spiritually and morally. Now, with the education that my friend Tabitha is helping provide--they are being equipped to teach the younger women about various health topics relevant to their lives. Oh, I hope they will!!!

After today's session Tabitha pointed out to me what I have been witnessing since arriving in Sudan. The typical Sudanese person will give you the shirt off their back, the best of their small amount of food, the last of their tea, coffee, and sugar and the handmade jewelry that they have labored over for days. They are incredibly generous and hospitable. However...

I wish we could see such an enthusiasm in them to share the knowledge that they possess... as well as their worldly possessions and the last of their tea and coffee.

Westerners have much to learn from Sudanese generosity, myself included. I love the teacher role. Though I'm uncomfortable in front of a group--if I'm passionate enough about the subject--I can forget my discomfort in the joy of sharing the knowledge I've been blessed with. I'm not so generous with my possessions though, even in Sudan where I have much less in my tukul than I did in my flat in the US--I am not giving much away. Hmm. I need to consider that. Neither of us is right.