Smarter Than the Average Savage

Smarter Than the Average Savage

A Catholic minister went into deepest Africa in an attempt to work
with and convert a tribe to the Catholic religion. He wasn't able
to speak the language very well, so he asked a member of the tribe
to help translate what he wanted to say. He received permission
from the Chief of the tribe to speak to the whole tribal population
at once. The minister stood atop a very large boulder, and as he
spoke, the translator translated all that the minister was saying.

"If you let me, I will show you how to dig in the ground and get
good water with which to drink and cook."

"Hoon-gow-wa," was the large response from the tribespeople.

"I can show you how you can capture animals without leaving your
village."

"Hoon-gow-wa!" shouted all the tribe. (By this time, the minister
was very happy with his effort)

"And if you will let me, I will show you a way to make peace with
the other tribes that are trying to take your land and your women."

"HOON-GOW-WA!!" was the enormous response, so loud that it scared
away the birds in the nearby trees. This was the end of his talk
and he thanked the tribe for allowing him to speak to them. Then
followed was a large feast and dancing.

Later that afternoon, the translator came up to the minister and
said, "The chief of our people said that you have given him much
joy. As a sign of his appreciation, he would like to take you on a
tour of animals and tribal land."

Well, the Minister was absolutely delighted at the acceptance that
he had been shown. He thanked the chief and told him that he felt
honored by his offer.

So the chief, minister, translator, and four worriers went walking
through the small kingdom. As the Chief gave the minister the
guided tour, the translator explained the different places that the
Chief was showing the minister: the large sparkling stream that was
their water source, and a large area bountiful in deer and elk that
provided their meat supply.

After another hour of walking, as the party came on a large lush
green pasture that looked to have about 100 cows (to the best guess
of the Minister), the Chief said something to the translator and
pointed toward the ground.

The Minister inquired what the chief had said.

The translator replied, "My Chief tells you to watch your step on
this path, and to be careful not to step in the Hoon-Gow-Wa."