In the past, girls would adorn themselves with beautiful face paints and colorful beads just to fetch water from the river. It was a sight to behold, a tradition that only occurred once a day if there was one girl at home. If there were more than one, it happened as often as they could.
This moment was significant because it was the only opportunity for girls to be seen by potential suitors. Fetching water, with the pot balanced on their heads, was not just a chore but also a way to shape and enhance the walk of the girls. They understood this well and took pride in it. I realize that these moments are hard to capture in pictures—there are no photos online that truly do justice to the experience. They would often gather wood, do laundry by the river, and form lasting friendships, all while sharing in the beauty of our culture and traditions.
This piece honors the girls we once were, and the women we want daughters to be.
