Maasai Warriors

Let’s just say these guys are badasses. When they reach puberty, they move out of their villages and live in the bush for 6 years protecting the village from roaming pretadors and also hunting for animals. They rub gel over their bodies to protect them from the cold. Then, after 6 years of living outside, they shave their heads and become a man. Rough business if you ask me. 

These guys took us into their village and showed us their customs and their ways. Showing us how to throw a spear and use seeds and berries from the Acacia tree and native plants. 

They danced and made vibrating sounds with their mouths and jumped up and down. They were so friendly and proud of their culture. 

Later that night they built a fire and we all sat around singing songs and feeling at peace within our new temporary home, Africa. 

Next morning, we were shown the local school and the cutest kids you’ve ever seen. They counted for us in Swahili, English and their local language, then regaled us with singing and dancing. It was all so heartwarming. 

Since they don’t mark their age when the children are born, they have them drape one arm over their head and measure. If they can reach their ear with their finger they are five.

 

(Checking her age.)

 

Sleeping on the ground still sucks, but seeing these kids, and these Masai Warriors… well, it’s worth it a thousand times over. Kwa heri! (Goodbye in Swahili).