Utendi (The Book of Mwana Kupona) stanzas 12-21 - Mwana Kupona

12

The first thing is to hold fast to your religion,

not rejecting the ordinances and obligations of God,

and when possible it is your duty to follow the Traditions,

it is a must you obey.

13

The second is to behave

properly and discreetly,

so that you are a welcome creature

wherever you go.

14

The third is to be trustworthy;

what you do,

do it conscientiously,

and do not make friends with a dishonest person.

15

Then, my child,

give respect to people of quality,

and wherever you see them,

make haste to greet them.

16

When they come in,

rise to meet them gladly,

and afterwards escort them

when they are about to leave.

17

Make yourself friendly,

but without deceit;

do not be stubborn and big headed,

that will make people hate you.

18

Talk with them cheerfully

so as to give them pleasure;

but it is better to be silent

than to give offence.

19

Do not express opinions on matters

that you do not know about,

and guard against talking and whispering aside

I advise you.

20

Do not consort with slaves

unless there is work to be done;

they will lead you astray

as I must have told you.

21

Do not associate with stupid people

who do not know how to behave;

have nothing to do

with immodest creatures.

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Mwana Kupona [Mwana Kupona binti Msham] (died c. 1865) Kenya

Translated by Tashrifa Silayi

Source: African Poems [in: Tendi by J. W. T. Allen, The Chaucer Press (1971)