Wednesday, June 11, 2025

He who burns his granary during a drought year must be insane

The Ganda proverb, “He who burns his granary during a drought year must be insane,” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prudence and foresight. In essence, the proverb warns against making irrational decisions that could jeopardize one's future, especially in times of scarcity. 

During a drought, resources are already limited, and burning a granary, which symbolizes food security, represents a foolish and self-destructive action. This proverb highlights the necessity of maintaining what one has, particularly during challenging circumstances.

Naledi, a young girl from a disconnected family, embodies this proverb's essence. In her family, there are frequent arguments, and her parents often make rash decisions, whether it’s financial or emotional, that ultimately harm their well-being.

For instance, during a particularly stressful time when her father lost his job, he impulsively spent what little savings they had on a lavish vacation, thinking it would alleviate their stress. This decision was akin to burning the granary, as it left them without a safety net during a precarious time. Naledi learned that, like her father, she could also make poor choices when overwhelmed.

Implementing the lesson from this proverb in practical terms involves recognizing and valuing existing resources, especially during difficult periods. Naledi could encourage her family to communicate openly about their needs and fears instead of reacting impulsively.

For example, instead of resorting to anger or rash spending when faced with financial stress, she could propose budgeting their resources carefully, ensuring they have enough to meet their needs.

The overarching lesson from this proverb is the importance of wise decision-making, particularly in adversity. It teaches us to preserve our resources and maintain a level-headed approach when facing challenges. 

By applying this wisdom, individuals like Naledi can foster stability in their lives and families, ultimately leading to healthier relationships and better outcomes.


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