A Traditional Rwandan Story

In the first few months while I was here, I frequently attended traditional art. I started making a traditional Rwandan basket. It’s something that I enjoyed doing very much. I’d spend an hour or so sitting and working on the basket. One of the most fun parts of working on the basket was sitting and taking with the 4 house mothers that thought the class. It has been months since I attended but finally I made my way back…and boy am I glad that I did.

I sat down last Wednesday to continue work on back basket. The house mothers and I began to talk about their increased knowledge of English. One of the house mothers asked me if I’d like to hear a traditional Rwandan story. I was very excited and of course said yes. Then she began. Here’s what I remember of the story that she told. If I make any mistakes I apologize. Do you know Jesus? She began by asking me this question. I told her that I’ve heard of him.

Here’s the story: Jesus and his mother Mary were both together in Rwanda. They were both enjoying listening to music and dancing. Then they decided to go to hell to find Satan and Bob Marley to help them create great music for Rwanda. Jesus was sent to get the 2 musicians. Mary told Jesus that he better return on time. Time management was what she told him. Jesus went to get them and returned late. Peter was at the door and would not let them into the room because they were not on time.

During the whole story the other house mothers and I could not stop laughing.