Monday, May 16, 2011

FINO' I MAN ÅMKO' #3

Del mismo cuero saca la correa.

From the same leather the belt comes forth.

An elderly woman in Saipan used to tell me this.  It's pure Spanish, but there was a time when many Chamorros, even those who could not speak Spanish well, peppered their conversation with Spanish expressions and proverbs. 

What is the meaning of this adage?

The solution often arises from the very problem itself.

For example, one has a load of leather to transport to the market, but lacks the means to carry it.  What to do?  Make straps from the very leather that needs to be hauled, and carry the load with the straps.

Wisdom!  Tinemtom!

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