These African Proverbs Are Ancestral Wisdom For The Ages

Sometimes, we can feel so insignificant we forget how incredible and needed in this world we are. As the ancestors say: “If you think you are too small to make a difference, spend a night with a mosquito.”

Even when times get hard, we still must keep trying our best. As the ancestors say: “If you are building a house and a nail breaks, do you stop building, or do you change the nail?”

Sometimes, a person can be smiling on the outside but suffering on the inside. So be mindful that smiles can often hide great pain and suffering.  As the ancestors say: “Teeth do not see poverty.”

We all make mistakes, but we can learn from them if we do some reflection and are gentle with ourselves. Being kind to ourselves in our moments of learning is the best way to strengthen our spirits.  As the ancestors say: “Don’t look where you fell; look where you slipped.”

All of our actions have effects, both intended and unintended. As the ancestors say: “If you pick up one end of the stick, you also pick up the other.”

The wisdom of our ancestors helps us better speak wisdom over ourselves and our communities. Our benevolent forefathers and foremothers have given us the strength to survive oppression, white terrorism, and negative energy. Their words are powerful. Speak to yourself accordingly.