In Hausa “Sai Hankuri” means “have patience,” and they say it after pretty much anything. Time is a concept that is very different here than it is in the states. Things tend to happen when they happen. If anyone was privileged enough to see me flip out on Tony my sophomore year of college about his unique perception of time, this is very similar. People either do or don’t show up to meetings, people are continuously late, and they believe that if it doesn’t happen it is not at the fault of the person, it just means that God didn’t want it to happen at that time. There is also an Arabic saying “In Sha Allah” which means “God willing” or “If God wills it.” It is used in an overabundance –
“Do you think it’s going to rain?” “In Sha Allah”
“Do you think the Mayor will show up to this meeting?” “In Sha Allah”
“Don’t you think your daughter should get a good education?” “In Sha Allah”
“Am I ever going to learn French?!?!” “Sai Hankuri, In Sha Allah…”
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3 comments:
I like this way of thinking. Very down to earth and simplistic. :)
HA HA!!! I was privileged enough to see you flip out on Tony..."I just don't understand, I just don't understand!" And from that description alone...I DO understand what you're trying to say about their perception of time! KIRA!!! Please tell me that you're reading "The Alchemist". It fits right in!
Oh my gosh, for once, you won't be blamed for being late! You are definately in your element! Love you... Mom
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