Learning a foreign language is often a daunting task, but our ninth-grade English teacher, John from Sudan, had a unique way of making it more than just an academic exercise. He transformed our classroom at Al Farabi Preparatory School in Salalah, Dhofar, into a space where language became a gateway to profound life lessons.
One of the most impactful stories John shared with us was about a simple village struggling with a choice: to build a bridge that would bring modern conveniences or to maintain the status quo, valuing their connection to nature and the rhythm of life that had sustained them for generations.
The village elders, representing wisdom and caution, advised against hastily altering the landscape, while the younger villagers, driven by the allure of progress, were eager to move forward. The decision ultimately fell on a young man who chose to build the bridge, symbolising a step towards modernisation. At first, the bridge seemed to signify progress and prosperity. However, the decision, made without considering the environmental and social implications, led to a catastrophic flood that devastated the village years later.
This story, narrated by John, was more than a tale of caution; it was a lesson in the value of wisdom and careful deliberation before making decisions that could irrevocably change our communities. His teachings resonated deeply with us, embodying the Sudanese virtues of patience, prudence, and a profound respect for communal well-being.
In Oman, many of us who have had the privilege of knowing Sudanese colleagues, friends, and mentors have experienced this wisdom firsthand. My own journey in academia was shaped by a Sudanese supervisor who taught me the importance of thoughtfulness in teaching. I honed my skills in translation and interpretation under a Sudanese mentor in international relations, and I continue to learn from Sudanese entrepreneurs whose resilience and foresight inspire me daily. My understanding of the post-colonial struggle and its enduring impact was profoundly influenced by reading Season of Migration to the North by the late Tayeb Salih, one of the greatest Arab and African novelists, whose work captures the complexities of identity, displacement, and the longing for belonging.
GOODBYE JULIA
Today, the inherent wisdom of Sudan's nearly 50 million people is being tested as the country endures a brutal civil war that has dragged on for over 16 months. Yet, I hold an unshakable belief that Sudan will rise again. This belief is rooted in the understanding that the true strength of the Sudanese people lies not in military might or political power but in their wisdom, their civility, and their capacity to draw on deep cultural and communal ties to overcome adversity.
The recently acclaimed film 'Goodbye Julia', directed by Sudanese filmmaker Muhammad Kordofani, poignantly captures the essence of Sudan’s current socio-political climate. Set in Khartoum, the film explores themes of identity, guilt, and reconciliation, offering a lens into the complex relationships between Sudan’s northern and southern communities. The narrative is a reflection on the lingering scars of postcolonial, historical, and social injustices. It underscores the pain of facing one's past, the heavy burden of guilt, and the necessity of forgiveness and reconciliation as a means to heal and move forward. Through its nuanced storytelling, 'Goodbye Julia' highlights the importance of empathy and understanding, reminding us that the path to healing lies in recognising our shared humanity and embracing the power of collective healing.
The film’s message echoes the core lesson from John's story about the village and the bridge: decisions made without wisdom and foresight can lead to unintended and sometimes devastating consequences. However, 'Goodbye Julia' also offers a message of hope. Despite the deep divisions and painful histories, the film illustrates that reconciliation is possible. The characters in 'Goodbye Julia' represent the resilience, strength, and courage of the Sudanese people, showing that the path to healing and unity is rooted in wisdom, compassion, and a willingness to understand each other.
BETTER FUTURE
As we watch our Sudanese brothers and sisters navigate the tumultuous waters of war and division, we are reminded that true power does not come from conflict or force but from the wisdom to seek unity, resilience, and sustainable peace. The lessons imparted by my Sudanese mentors and the values depicted in 'Goodbye Julia' and 'Season of Migration to the North' provide a beacon of hope for a nation in turmoil. Pragmatism suggests that embracing patience, engaging in inclusive dialogue, and practicing collective decision-making are essential for building a resilient society. Sudan's future depends on the wisdom of its people to rise above short sighted regional opportunism, and focus on internal long-term strength and stability.
Long live Sudan, a land of profound wisdom, natural and cultural richness, and enduring resilience. May the strength and wisdom of its people guide them toward a future filled with peace, prosperity, and unity.
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