Image source:metaAi
Life in the village is the direct opposite of what is obtained in the city. In the village, it's either you're a farmer or a business person. The majority of the people are farmers. In the typical village settings, food is never a problem. Residence may lack money but food will always be in surplus so long as you're ready to work.
As usual, Mazi Ebube, an Old man in his late 60s, appears younger than his age. He's stout like a cyborg. Most of his age mates can't do anything meaningful for themselves. They stay indoors and they are taken care of by their wives and children. Mazi Ebube’s case was different. He still goes to his farm, harvests crops by himself and does many other things. Until you're told his real age, you might mistake him for a 30-year-old man.
The other day, Mazi was pursuing his grandchild, Emeka, who refused to go to school. The boy took to his heels when he was asked to take his bath. Mazi almost ran him over when he met Chief Nkem.
“Mazi” he said, “it seems you've forgotten that you're an old man. Why are you chasing your grandchild this early morning, if you fall down now, you might not stand up again”
“Chief, as you can see, I am still very strong, nothing is wrong with me” he responded
“I know, the gods have blessed you with good health. That doesn't mean you should play around with it.” Chief Nkem advised.
“Don't mind me, I am as strong as an iroko tree in the middle of the forest.”
“I wish I could be like you” The chief muttered as he walked away.
In the evening, the sun was rounding up the day's activities, the time ticked towards 6pm, and many people started returning from the market and farms. Mazi was returning from harvesting his yams. On the Carrier of his bicycle was a basket with 5 tubers of yams and vegetables. Upon sighting a convoy of vehicles coming towards him, he alighted and began to push it.
The village road was narrow, hence one must be careful not to ride into an oncoming vehicle. Three tinted cars drove past him and headed towards the village square where the king also resides.
Many thoughts ran through his head. He wondered who such a person could be. He cast his mind to early morning if there was any information from the town crier, but none. Other women who were returning from the market, together with their children stood still and watched the car pass.
In the end, Mazi concluded that he'll have to visit the village square and see things for himself. After all, he's also a chief in the community.
He climbed back on his bicycle and rode slowly to his house. He untied the basket, and his younger wife helped him take the yams one after the other into his barn.
“Mama Precious, just find a better place and keep those yams when I return, I will keep them in the rightful place”, he said as he climbed back on his bicycle and off to see the king.
The king's sitting room was already filled with people. Three of the visitors and four chiefs. As Mazi Ebube stepped in, everyone greeted him, and he was offered a seat.
“Mazi, the king called, sorry”,, he apologised. I was about to send for you when you just showed up. That means your movement is directed by the gods”
“As always” he tipped in”
“Okay”, the king continued after clearing his throat. “This young man you're seeing here is a son of the late Chief Michael', he said, pointing his finger towards the direction of the young man. He then continued “he came into the country yesterday and decided to visit his village.” He paused, looked into the faces of his chiefs and they were all nodding in unison.
“As you all know, his father was a good man; he died in his old age, so his son has decided to drill a solar-powered borehole for the community.”
The chiefs smiled at each other. It was obvious that they were happy with the news.
“As you all know, he continued “, water has always been a major challenge for the village, and women have to leave as early as 4 am to fetch water in the nearby community. So as a King, I want to ask you, my chiefs, do you welcome this development?
Chief Nkem stood up and agreed, followed by Mazi Ebube and every other chief. They were happy with the development.
Two weeks later, the Asaka community gathered to celebrate pipe borne water rushing from their community. Indeed it was a great relief to the women and children and even the men.
What a wonderful story, I love it! It beautifully reflects strength and, above all, vitality. Water is hope and unity, and your story captures that wonderfully.
Thanks 🙏
I love that you took your story to the local setting. Portraying culture and tradition. Beautifully done.
Thanks @zerah..I appreciate
So good of the young man to solve one of the problems of his community. Nice story. I was reading this and picturing the village road in my mind. Weldone
Wow...thanks 🙏