The Richness of Simplicity: A Lesson from Tanzania
In a world where happiness is often equated with material abundance, Bro. Mark Jendam Bertumen, CRM, discovered a deeper truth during his pastoral mission in Tanzania. Among the humble yet joyful communities of Magogo and Kharumwa Parishes, he witnessed something extraordinary: happiness that was not born of wealth, but of gratitude, faith, and generosity.
One day, he received a simple yet deeply meaningful gift—a chicken, or "kuku," from a family he had just met. Though they had never spoken before, they already knew him from Sunday Mass. They welcomed him with open hearts, embodying a spirit of hospitality that touched him profoundly. The gift of a chicken, as he later learned, holds deep significance in many African cultures. It is not merely an offering of food but a symbol of honor, goodwill, and a desire to strengthen relationships. In that moment, Bro. Jendam realized that true wealth is not measured by possessions, but by the ability to give from the heart.
The people he encountered, despite their hardships, radiated joy. Children shared their only piece of bread with friends. Families, though they had little, were rich in love and faith. Their gratitude was not conditional upon what they owned but flowed naturally from their trust in God’s providence. It was a lesson written not in words but in the selfless gestures of those who found contentment in the simplest blessings.
In today’s world, where success is often defined by what we accumulate, these experiences challenge us to redefine true happiness. Perhaps joy is not in having more, but in needing less. Perhaps it is not in storing up treasures for ourselves, but in sharing what we have, however small. As Christ said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). It is in simplicity that we encounter the true essence of life, where love is valued over luxury, relationships over riches, and faith over fleeting pleasures.
The greatest treasures are not found in bank accounts or possessions but in the relationships we build, the faith we cultivate, and the love we share. True happiness is not about having everything—it is about seeing God in everything. In the simple yet profound gift of a kuku, Bro. Jendam was reminded that generosity is not measured by how much we give, but by the love with which we give it.
