What sustains us, as humans? Work puts food on the table, work can challenge us to grow in different ways, but what makes us feel "whole"? I say, it's the people in my life at any given moment who I love, and who love me in return.
Anyone who thinks his wreckless work ethic that neglects his own health (mental or physical) is a product of his own talent is sadly delusioned. The only reason he might be able to operate self-destructively for long periods of time is that somebody is sustaining him through it. Somebody there to say, "Stop, breathe." Somebody to bitch to. Somebody who knows when you want a latte, or when you REALLY need a beer. Somebody to make you laugh at your own frustrations.
I've been doing a lot of reflecting on differences in lifestyle between Senegalese people, myself, and U.S. Americans as a whole (surprise, surprise). Since my arrival here in Senegal, I appreciate even more the people who support me on a daily basis. Family is the center of everything here, and everyone IS family. Whether you are friends since childhood or if five generations ago you had a relative who came from the same ethnic group as somebody else, they're considered family and they're a part of your support network. My host brother Momo once explained: if one person has a problem, it quickly becomes everyone's problem, and everyone comes together to offer their support. I see and respect that value of human support more and more as my time in Senegal continues, and I intend to continue to value those who support me on a daily basis, and do my best to offer the same support to those I care about.
Everyone needs relationships and human support, even if they live in the states, where everyone is supposed to be able to make it on their own.
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