It is dark. The elegant, small lodge is lit with lanterns. Lanterns that remind you of the Sultans. The fire roars in the massive fire place. An Irish man plays acoustic guitar and his voice carries off into the hills. The Maasai who work at the lodge listen intently, wide eyed. When the Irish man finishes, the Maasai are asked to sing. In their red shukas they gather and break into song and dance. It is an ancient tradition, a guttural song and pulsating dance. It is a privilege, an absolute privilege to listen and watch. To be a part of such an ancient custom. What will the world be like without these rich tribes? Will anyone notice?
Si-Mbaya
Si-mbaya means not bad in Swahili. It is a common response. when someone says "Jambo," hello, people reply by saying si-mbaya. Not bad. Even if things are bad, they say with a smile, si-mbaya. Its all a matter of context. I have my family, I have food, I have shelter. Not bad.
