As we carve paths towards an uncertain and unknowable future, it is always helpful to look to the wisdom of our ancestors. They were here before us and in many instances, had a more intimate understanding of and relationship with nature and with the universe as a whole.
In many ways, the Akan concept of 'Sankɔfa' perfectly represents of this idea. As the well known Sankɔfa saying goes in the Akan language:
'Sɛ wo werɛ fi na wosan kɔfa a yenki.'
This saying literally translates to:
“If you have forgotten and you go back to get it, it isn't frowned upon.”
In essence, Sankɔfa teaches us that, in order to move forward, we must go back to our roots; to the ancient wisdom and knowledge of our ancestors. Thus for us to understand our present and secure our future, it is essential that we know our past.
This piece speaks to this idea and was made in honor of our forebears.
PS: “Sankɔfa ” is represented as a bird moving forward while looking backward with an egg in its mouth.
