Akazvara sekera muchitende.

Word definitions

dende: hollowed out and dried gourd used as a container.

(Large gourds are also used to mount the mbira musical instrument. The gourd resonates and enriches the sound.)

Translation

To those who have had children, laugh behind a large gourd.

Inspiration

One’s face behind a large gourd would be concealed, and the resulting sound muffled or disguised, making it difficult to clearly recognise them or the sound.

Application

Every parent should realise that they are not immune to the possibility of being disappointed by their children, even with the best parenting. It is a warning to parents not to be unfeeling towards those parents with problem children.

Similar Proverb

1. Abara atochena mwoyo.