By: ToochiMaks/AfrocentricTouch Editor: PhenyoMos
Firstly, we wanted to welcome you all with this piece about Afrocentric Journaling. The idea coming from the book “Journal with African Proverbs” by ToochiMaks. This is a classy, spacious journal filled with traditional, thought-provoking and positive African proverbs both in their native and English language. Journaling, an age-old practice, offers a sanctuary where we can pour our thoughts, emotions, and aspirations onto paper. Which led us to this moment; creating more designs and exploring ways we can impact the world and share not only ours; but many of our talented and ambitious Africans out there, even those enthusiastic about the African culture.
So, the thought dawned on us; What if we combined the art of journaling with the wisdom of African proverbs? The result of creating such journal would be a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. African proverbs, passed down through generations, encapsulate the richness of culture, values, and life experiences. Embarking on a journey where ink meets ancient wisdom and discover the transformative power of journaling with African proverbs.
Many of Africans can remember growing up with strong African roots, cultured and well-mannered homes. Whether we were raised in our motherland or abroad. Our parents have always done the best for us; raising and equipping us with the tools to thrive as we leave the nest and explore what is out there in the world. That desire from them has not changed, even if we may have grown into the people we are today; with our own dreams and desires.
The Western civilization is a rapidly changing world, and it's ideal to get lost amid it all. Nowadays, we tend to be surrounded by the modern world of technology and ever-changing morals. Especially when it comes to the western civilization, it is different to the world we were brought up in. Many of things we could only imagine and see through mobile phones are now at grasp of our hands; the music, food, lifestyle... You name it. Yet most of us can agree we were not exactly brought up to be as expressive as the modern world seem to be, we were not taught to me mentally and emotionally aware of ourselves in the presence, let alone express or share to alleviate as we grow. We must be able to combine our upbringing traditions and ethics whilst keeping our thoughts and experiences or even tasks in our own personal space without been at jeopardy of judgement or ridiculed. Whilst also remembering and keeping our roots and principles with us. No matter how much we grow and explore the world out there, keeping intact of our traditions as Africans is a powerful tool to have, it is what allows us to be uniquely, and tremendously strong in our being. As an Eton proverb says “Ba’ateuda angnoun ou po’owoa no” which translates “He who enquires can never get lost;” we are never as alone as we may think or as lonely as one may feel sometimes.
Occasionally it takes writing things down to really begin to see situations from a distinct perspective and understand it. Or even figure out how to overcome such situations we may be going through. Often is better to write down something than try to remember even detail or tasks we may have.
So, as we continue growing and living potentially our best lives, may we keep those memories of our upbringing with us; no matter where we may be. The beautiful tales and teachings we grew up with, the love and affection we received from our grandparents and parents.
As a Shona proverb goes “Paduku paduku, Tinosvika” which translates “little by little, we will be there”. No matter what trials and tribulations we may face, we must remember we are not alone. Remembering our strength and the prayers and encouraging words of our loved ones. In doing so, may we recognize our interconnectedness with the collective human experience, transcending cultural boundaries and build a deeper understanding of our own heritage.
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