Be strong and patient

I am starting to lose track of what I have written about now, though I am pretty sure I have mentioned this in previous entries. I was just struck by the concept again today at work and wanted to share. Komera and Ihangane; probably the two most commonly used phrases in Rawndan culture. Be strong and be patient. If someone next to you stumbles while walking you tell them to be strong. A neighbor is describing a difficult money or health problem, you tell them to be patient. Even laboring women are told to be patient, though I doubt that's what they want to hear at that moment. Be strong and be patient. It fits this culture so well. Such a simple sentiment but one that can have so much meaning. Ihangane, be patient. It's said time and time again in so many different ways. Anything worthwhile is worth waiting for. Often we get weighed down by the trivialities and we forget to look at the bigger picture. We get caught scrutinizing and stressing about things we can't control. Be patient. Things take time. Especially in Rwanda where Africa time seems to be at its best. It will get done, eventually. Life doesn't revolve on the extra minute or two you would save rushing through your days. Be patient.

Komera. It is such an inclusive word. A common greeting around my area is "Ukomeye" meaning are you strong? Not just a simple 'hello' or 'good morning' but a question about you and how you are doing in all possible senses. Are you strong? This also fits with their version of good morning or afternoon which translates more to 'you have survived the morning or afternoon?' Life is tough. More often than not it kicks the crap out of you for no apparent reason, so how encouraging is it to have someone make sure you are strong enough to handle it. Be strong. I like to think that this goes further then a quick response to someone tripping or a passing greeting. Be strong, not just in your body but in every facet of life. Be strong in love, be strong in beliefs, be strong in joy. How much more simply can you put it. Even in hard times, there is someone who will be there to look at you, smile, and tell you "Komera."