Whispers of Nzulezu: The Sacred Snail's Journey and the Wisdom of Ancestors- Day 2 of the 7 Days of Wonders story

In the serene village of Nzulezu, where homes stood on stilts above the gentle waters, there was a story passed down through generations, a tale that bound the community with threads of respect and mystery.

It was a late afternoon, and the sky watched over the village. Beneath the oldest tree, which had witnessed countless seasons and secrets, sat Mr. Phylip, the village elder. Around him gathered a group of wide-eyed children, their curiosity as vast as the skies above.

Mr. Phylip, known for his wisdom and tales, began to speak of a journey long past, a journey that led their ancestors to the very grounds they now called home. It was a tale of a humble snail, an unlikely guide that emerged during a time of wandering and uncertainty. This small creature, moving with purposeful patience, led their forebears across vast lands to Nzulezu, the place of water.

As he spoke, the children's imaginations took flight, envisioning the snail's slow but steadfast journey. They learned how, since that pivotal moment, it had become a taboo in the royal family to harm snails, let alone consume them. Snails were revered, a symbol of guidance and survival, a totem of the village’s history.

Mr. Phylip's story meandered through the children's minds, just as the snail had wandered through the lands. He explained how this respect for the snail mirrored the community's broader reverence for all life. In Nzulezu, animals were not merely creatures but symbols, each holding a unique place in the village's heart. Some were treasured as pets, others respected as totems, and some, for others in the world, served as food. But for the people of Nzulezu, the snail was sacred.

As the evening crept in, bringing with it the cool whispers of night, Mr. Phylip shared more of the village's traditions. He spoke of practices like not counting money, using oil after sunset, not sweeping at night, or pounding fufu.

"Why? the children ask?" inquired one of the listeners. Mr. Phylip smiled gently, his eyes reflecting the wisdom of years. "It is because," he explained softly, "often, the respect we hold for the mysteries and the unknown, those things we cannot yet understand or explain, offers us a key to solving many of life's puzzles. In embracing what we do not know, we open ourselves to learning, growth, and the humility necessary to navigate our complex world."        

"Concluding his tale, "is not just about knowing these he said; it's about understanding and respecting the wisdom of our ancestors, the mysteries of the world we live in, and the lessons we are yet to learn."

The children, now enveloped in the magic of their heritage, looked at each other, their hearts filled with a newfound appreciation for their customs, history, and the little snails that moved slowly around their village, guardians of a story that defined the essence of Nzulezu.

No matter who you are, what you are or where you are, B. INSPIRED WITH STORIES FROM AFRICA (B.ISA)