by Adam Shanahan

Created on: August 17, 2009

Lost

From the second I awoke on the day of my initiation into manhood, I felt concern and uneasiness about the trials ahead. I began thinking; why do I need to prove that I am worthy to be a part of my home? The slight burning sensation that could be felt in the air added to my unease, continuing to degrade my confidence until all that remained was fear. Seeing the familiar faces of the tribe purposefully engaged in their daily jobs, without even noticing me; sent a cold panic, shivering down my spine. Out of frustration I shook my head and broke into a run towards the clear, shimmering lake which ran alongside our village. I dove into the shallow depths feeling the cool water encompass my body, immediately soothing and relaxing my entire body. I was now ready within myself to face the initiation process.

I made my way through the rustling village, absently greeting friends and family who all offered their sympathetic expressions, but ensured it was vital to my transformation into a functioning member of the tribe, to be like all the other men. Still the question of why I needed to prove myself lingered. I feared the idea of conforming however I took a breath and pressed on towards the elder's hut; a dominant structure surrounded by totems and other sacred decorations to ward off evil spirits. I stopped momentarily to absorb the impact of seeing this foundation of our humble society, even though I passed this hut daily, this time was different; like experiencing danger for the first time. My heart stopped for a fleeting moment. The still, scorching air licked my motionless body. Everything slowed and the moment lasted an eternity; until finally the elders requested my approach.

Their fragile but strong bodies stood before me, their battle-scars stared into my eyes representing their honour in defending their people, and they had covered their faces and bodies in ceremonial paint outlining their ancient features instilling a spiritual aura around them. High Elder Kikuyu spoke slowly in our native tongue, chanting a prayer to deliver me to manhood, his voice was deep and gentle a somewhat comfort to my nerves. I was then covered in ceremonial paint and surrounded with the overwhelming smell of incense, clouding my mind and all of my thoughts. The remaining elders dancing around me chanted something incomprehensible; the commotion and natural high that was forced upon me; caused me to collapse.

I rose from the dusty ground in a trance unaware

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