A Prayer for Settlement

 

Prayer

May the Divine guide travelers on unknown paths and grant them  peaceful settlement

A daily walk with Bruce Onobrakpeya: Day 8 

Even in times of forced change and uncertainty, we are never alone. The strength and wisdom of our ancestors and the enduring stability of nature guide and protect us. This connection offers hope and resilience, reminding us that in the transient journey of life, we carry forward the legacy of the past and the promise of safe passage, regardless of the challenges we face."

Picture Credit: Onobrakpeya  Travelers shows . the image of people on the move, carrying their essential belongings on their heads and shoulders, powerfully symbolizing the reality of forced migration, a global issue affecting millions. It evokes the struggle of leaving familiar environments, where generations have lived, due to unforeseen circumstances, be they natural disasters or human conflicts. This scene is not only a stark reminder of the transience and uncertainty of life but also serves as a poignant prayer for protection and safety over all those compelled to undertake such journeys. It underscores the profound truth that stability can be fleeting, and today's settled individuals might find themselves as travelers tomorrow. This visual and narrative representation captures the essence of vulnerability, resilience, and the unceasing hope for a safer future amidst the trials of forced displacement.

May the True Gains of our Work Never be dispersed

Nigerian Proverb (Urhobo)

Atete Gwre Ighoro-o

A daily walk with Bruce Onobrakpeya: Day 6

This expression which  roughly translates to "May the Hawking tray always return with its owner at the end of the day" can be understood as a prayer or a wish for both success and safety. The "Hawking tray" in this context symbolizes the means or tools one uses to earn a living, akin to a hawker's tray full of goods for sale. The phrase "always return with its owner" underscores the dual hope that the individual not only achieves success (represented by the tray being full of the day's profits and gains) but also returns safely home at the end of the day. This proverb, therefore, encompasses a comprehensive blessing – that one's daily efforts lead to fruitful gains and that these are safely brought back home, ensuring both economic well-being and personal safety. On a reflective note the expression may also be an invocation and prayer to God, for the Gift of a life well spent, crowned with attributes like Wealth, Peace of mind, Prosperity and a Great legacy in life

Picture Credit: Onobrakpeya. In Atete Gwre Ighoro-o, Onobrakpeya depicts two poles supporting a third bar to form an entrance gate to a village.  Suspended from the cross-bar is the "Atete" (straw-tray) which contains prayers and blessings tied to its middle.

The Leopard In a random walk in the Cornfield

Nigerian Proverb in Pidgin English

One Man meat, na another Person Poison

 A daily walk with Bruce Onobrakpeya: Day 4 

Though the forest might seem daunting and mysterious to many, it's a sanctuary to the leopard. This metaphor underlines the profound truth that what may be challenging and unfamiliar to some can be a haven of comfort and familiarity to others. It highlights the rich tapestry of diverse experiences and viewpoints that different individuals or groups possess. Furthermore, it serves as a call for unity, inviting people from all walks of life to embrace and learn from each other's unique perspectives."

Picture Credit: Leopard In the Cornfield by Bruce Onobrakpeya, 1966