‘A pure Masai man’

Sue Evans, Akron, Ohio — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 19:42:53 GMT

I was fortunate enough to visit the Masai Mara about 10 years ago. I am glad that the Masai have managed to keep their nomadic and tribal lifestile. I would love to go back some day

‘A pure Masai man’

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 19:47:56 GMT

What a pity for these men! Imagine, if these women have all gone away, these men's existence would cease. And you ... you want to become one, just like them. Such greatness in your ways of thinking!

‘A pure Masai man’

A.S., Chicago, IL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 19:56:38 GMT

We have our own version of the Masai man here in the US -- they are called "Executives."

‘A pure Masai man’

Anonymous — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 20:08:54 GMT

Interesting article as seen through Western eyes. I tried however to intuit the substance without seeing it through my westernized eyes. Something important can be learned from the Masai. The women don't try to do the work of men and the men don't try to do the work of women. Women in this society ARE respected. They hold the family unit together and are cared for by their men. Capitalism needs both people in the household to work in order for it to survive. This is where our manufactured judgments about the value of household work comes from.

‘A pure Masai man’

Joyce Fenner — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 20:24:11 GMT

I've been privileged to have Masai and other tribal descendant African men carry my wheelchair, drive me gently over ruts in Land Rovers, search in the town for replacement parts for my walker, and treat me wonderfully over many trips to eastern Africa. I've always felt respect was flowing between us.

‘A pure Masai man’

Delmar Fairchild, Barron, WI — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 20:44:45 GMT

We, American men, can only dream....! This is what the Muslim fundamentalists are fighting for also. Not that I support their efforts, I don't because I believe women are equal to men. This is something my wife tells me every time I have to do the chores.

‘A pure Masai man’

K.B. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 20:48:12 GMT

LOL

I'm not so sure how the day of a typical Masai man and woman differ much from our American days. We women may not have to BUILD the house but we are usually responsible for doing everything else in it. An American man usually has one job. Then he comes home and expects his wife to wait on him hand and foot. Sounds about the same to me...

‘A pure Masai man’

Liz MacKelvie; Appleton, WI — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 20:59:59 GMT

When I was in US training to prepare leaving for Africa, my trainer/mentor told me that he felt I'd have a hard time/as a feminist. 'See,' he said, 'the women do all the work and the men sit under trees drinking beer and playing games.' Oh, in Gabon, he was so right. Thanks, Malcolm, for preparing me!

‘A pure Masai man’

Brian, reporting from Phoenix, Arizona — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 21:01:08 GMT

Martin, Interesting enough story. I lived and worked in Africa for five years, traveling several times through East Africa (Kenya and Tanzania). Beutiful countries. Beautiful people. One that not many americans are familiar with. It is a gift to be ale to travel to this part of the world where development and technology is held at bay by tradition and culture and the overwhelming presence of god-given nature. No sounds of honking horns. No smells except those dating back thousands of years. After all this is a land unchanged, back to the days of live volcanoes and dinosaurs.

I currently find myself in a similar place. Arizona. A blindfolded man could easily be led to believe that he is in one or another of the two places. Also a land of active volvanoes and dinosaurs, dating back thousands of years. Also a land of beautiful indigenous people - the Navajo, the Apache, the Pima, the Havasupai, the Hopi. Many living in similar restraints as the Masaii. Simple wood beam and mud homes. Pastoral practices of grazing sheep and cattle. Minimum dry farming of corn and other grains due to the cyclical patterns of rain fall. Corn meal and grilled meats are the basic foods of both peoples. Monsoon season comes around the same time frame in Arizona as it does in East Africa - and causes a similar devastating flooding.

But peoples have been living and surviving in these barren lands long before the time of Christ. And subsequent generations still survive there today. It is amazing proof as to the adaptability and verility of man.

You are fortunate to have witnessed the contemporary presence of the Massaii and the surroundings of the East Afria plains. Come to Arizona to enjoy a similar experience. I have traveled the entire state in a variety of loops, any one of which will expose to you the breadth and beauty of the American Southwest. Regards, Brian from Boston

‘A pure Masai man’

Njeri — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 21:02:28 GMT

"We have a lot to learn from these simple nomadic Masai herdsmen, I thought, and their wonderful respectful customs."

Oh, trust me. Many [indigenous] peoples such as the Masai tried to teach your people but your ancestors preferred to "exterminate the brutes." I hate it when Westerners go to countries and make stupid comments like "we can learn so much from these people." No, there's one thing you need to learn and that is to value other people: Humanity.

‘A pure Masai man’

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 21:16:46 GMT

Dear Mr.Fletcher, I totally agree with you with regards to people interrupting eachother. Sometimes I think we ought to have a talking stick in my place of work. Especially at morning meetings. Anyway,I think the Masai woman certainly does her share of the duties for her family and maybe the Masai man could help out building the temporary home with the mud and sticks. Tending to the herd is one thing, but the herd was only 100 yards away, I don't really consider that hard work for the Masai man.I honestly believe that if the Masai women were given that talking stick they would have plenty to say about the Masai men and what they do each and every day. Mr.Fletcher, I'm sure you wouldn't mind being a Masai man, but your such a good reporter I think I prefer you stick to that job. I hope the Masai men enjoy their rest because someday the Masai women might decide to play role reversal. I wonder how long that would last. Peace to all!

‘A pure Masai man’

Amanda, Ridgefield, WA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 21:17:53 GMT

Jumbo!

I toured Ben's boma in January and whew-the flies! Driving down the "road" we saw two women w/ huge bundles of wood on their backs, one of the ladies I was with tried to lift one of the Masai women's bundles of wood and it was over a hundred pounds (she can bench about 80lbs) and the petite Masai women was about 7 months pregnant and still had about 2 miles to walk home. On top of the genital mutilation all 13 year old Masai girls undergo and all the work they do, they are so happy - I can't figure it out. As for the men, I am sure leaning on that stick all day in the shade is hard work(he he). Great article!

‘A pure Masai man’

Chad, New Albany IN — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 21:41:43 GMT

Martin over the coarse of my graduate work I had the opportunity to make two 2 month long trips to the Lower Omo Valley, of Ethiopia. While there I lived with The nyangatom, and Mursi tribes. I became close to my guides they actually told me about their everyday lives, the gender separation was very much like that of the masai. There too the women where always laughing and happy. I think it goes a long way to show that Americans spend too much time being unhappy for things that don't really matter. These women live such tough existences that just being alive and able to labor is reason to be happy.

‘A pure Masai man’

Robert Bruce — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 21:48:51 GMT

So... We have a lot to learn from these "simple nomadic Masai herdsmen." Yes, don't we! Women!
Know your place! And build it, clean it, keep it working, make my dinner, and clean my clothes. Whew!
I'm tired after ordering all that. I need to take a rest!

‘A pure Masai man’

Dave — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 21:53:25 GMT

I would be interested to find out what their life was like a hundred years ago. Where the men required to go to battle against other tribes? Where their fewer men than women due to this? Would make sense then that the women have most of responsibility and that men would be shared around :)

‘A pure Masai man’

Fran — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 22:09:44 GMT

Mr. Fletcher,

I enjoyed your article tremendously. Many times those of us caught up in the whirlwind of the technology age (21st century) assume that everyone on the planet is envious of all of the things we have accumulated, NOT. There is something to be said about simplicity and as the women's laughter rang in your ears I'm sure you were acutely aware that items don't always make us happy. Cheers to simplicity!!!!!

p.s. since you are "somewhat" envious of the Masai man I wonder if you are also fond of the blood and milk mixture?

‘A pure Masai man’

Sundee, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 22:27:41 GMT

Your take on the Masai is very funny but missing some information. While in Kenya I learned that the Masai men share their wives with their friends and relatives. They, the other men, place their spears infront of the woman's doorway to tell the husband that they are visiting!! The Masai I visited told us this a common practice.
Also, the houses are not made of mud and sticks. The houses are made from cow manure and sticks. Cows are the most important thing in their culture. Did you see the brambles they cirlce around their villages at night to protect them from lions? Did they revel you with stories of their lion hunts for the men to be initiated into manhood? They are wonderful people, but a very difficult culture from ours. A good place to visit, but I'm with you, no way I'd like to be a Masai woman.

‘A pure Masai man’

jim, houghton, mi — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 22:37:54 GMT

I have spent parts of the past 5 years in Kenya in the Rift Valley. I have concluded that the Masai way of life is very civilized, compared to, say, the United States. Seriously. No traffic for one thing. Think about it. Better yet, come and see for yourself.

‘A pure Masai man’

Guy, Israel — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 22:48:01 GMT

This is great! I thoroughly enjoyed this slice of Masai life. I need to get one of those sticks!!

‘A pure Masai man’

Hoppy — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:21:09 GMT

All those wive's AAAHHHH!

‘A pure Masai man’

Fred Dungan — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:27:27 GMT

Is there a bride price? I want to know how much it costs to sit under a tree and drink beer all day.

‘A pure Masai man’

Mumu, Newport Beach, California — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:33:40 GMT

Hi Martin,
So did you get to dine with the Maasai? Did you get to explore their dishes?
Having been Born and raised in Kenya; this kind of a story mesmerizes me; it's such a great culture/ community who live in the middle of nowhere and yet they are very satisfied with their way of life. Their determination like you said to keep the traditions a live is amazing.

I know they will keep resisting the western culture but i know someday things will change, beacuse i think they are such bright people and they can do alot besides herding. But it's their way of life which is very respectable and interesting.

Am sure you noticed the difference between different tribes;in most cases the Man has the "SAY", most of the time; but with the western having almost overtaken most of the major cities and most people wanting to adopt and live like the westerners, Men are losing the power.

Most women in cities and even in the villages are learning to and wanting to provide for themselves without having to wait on a man.

My grandfather had two wives and they didn't mind sharing him; they got a long well, and even now that my grandpa passed they still talk; laugh and do things together.There is jealous sometimes but you can hardly tell. Well as for me, that's not for me' He dare not look at another woamn while with me;

Keep doing what you're doing Martin.

Be Safe,

Mumu.

‘A pure Masai man’

Don Cargile Salt Lake city, Utah — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:35:41 GMT

It might be interesting to note that the apparent leasure of life of a Masai man begins with a feroious cost. A boy goes through a rite of manhood that involves killing a lion, somewhere around the age of 12 to 17.Needless to say , this only required of the males. Feirce warriors for thousands of years, they occasionally served as mercenaries to their ethnic cousins, the real ancient Egptians, who for all their power knew better than to cheat or backstab a Masai king! Remaining free from being subjergated, decultralized, colonized, and undone even in modern times, the Masai men, cousin spirit to Spartans, have alot to crow about. most Americans seem to still be fairly ignorant about acient African history, but if they weren,t they would be radiant with awe and respect for this incredible people. The ferocious love that the Masai man has for his womenfolk, his children, his culture, indeed his world has historically translated into fierce battles against astounding odds, and although ancient Egypt is gone and her lands, atleast inthe north, seem mostly populated by Arabs today (we keep calling that region Egypt, they call themselves The United Arab Republic),the women of the Masai have alot to sing and laugh about. Somewhere on Earth, rol up the sleeves tough, hardy, masculine men who don,t and never will apologize for being men are still loved and appreciated.Especially when the price of safe house and home might come in blood, and do even flinch about the cost.

‘A pure Masai man’

Wairimu, Kenya — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:39:14 GMT

As a Kenyan it is quite amusing to read the reporter's very romanticised view of the Maasai and their way of life.

Maasailand is a hard place to live in due to scarcity of water and other resources. Nonetheless, the Maasai make the best of it. The women he heard laughing must realise that in life you make the best of what you have and don't whine and moan about it. Life is always better with a smile no matter what your circumstances. You can see that all over Kenya.

Funny enough, the only reason why the tribes like the Maasai 'an ancient and proud tribe' (per the reporter) are able to maintain their traditional way of life is because their land was undesirable to the British who then did not drive them off their land or do their best to eliminate their traditional way of life in an effort to 'civilize' them as they did in many other parts of Kenya.

Finally are there any 'modern' tribes? Anytime I see the word tribe, it's usually preceded by ancient so I'm just wondering which of our tribes are not.

As for Brian from Arizona, interesting comparisons between the East African plains and the American Southwest. I'm not sure about the thousand year smells, can't imagine what that's like :-)

‘A pure Masai man’

vicky bailey, atlantic city, new jersey — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:40:27 GMT

It's interesting to see how some cultures live their lives. Because, they don't live and behave as we (americans) do this doesn't make their lifestyles weird, crazy or ridiculous. They seem to appreciate their lives, and everyone should respect this. We (americans) could learn some lessons on how to respect the differences of others. We can't expect others to adjust to the lifestyles of americans, I think, we're pretty weird. Young people no longer respect older people or anyone for that matter, we have no regard for life these days, we will kill at the drop of a dime, the racial divide lends itself to situations such as the Jena 6, after all these years of inequlaity we still don't treat each other equally, I could go on forever. We could certainly benefit from the talking stick, this intricately carved wooden object (a simple stick) radiates the majic of respect with these people and because they understand and respect the meaning of the talking stick it works for them. When was the last time you remember someone listening to what someone else had to say without interrupting? Although we may think this lifestyle is unusual women building houses, walking long distances for water and wood, it seems to work for them. Perhaps we should teach our children while they're young and still in school (and at home)how to respect the rights and beliefs of others throughout the world. The Masai people seem to be a very happy group of people, and although we may not agree with how they live and function they look extremely happy and peaceful to me, even the women, no one seems to be complaining, what a wonderful thing, let it be, let it be.

‘A pure Masai man’

Betsy Zink — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:45:55 GMT

Having been a Peace Corps volunteer in Kenya for two years, and having lived 7 additional years in other African countries I can attest that all of your ovservations are true. Happiness in life is about managing expectations. The Masai women are not unhappy because this is the life that they know. Western women cry out for equality because compared to the life that THEY know the Masai swomen seem to be mistreated.
Masai women are revered for their ability to balance all of of their responsibilities and men are honored to have such capable wives. There is more love and respect between these partners than is apparent to the eye. How can we judge them?
I had many female tribal friends that insisted on going throught he circimcision ceremony to prove their dedication to their future partner. They WANTED to undergo this procedure to show their tribal bond. They do not see it as undergoing a horrible ordeal. My efforts to inform women of their choices were NOT well received, by men OR women.

Culture shock is called culture shock for a reason..very often the ways of one culture ARE shocking to the other. That does not mean that they are wrong. It is not our job to change others, but to respect what they do and learn from them. We can choose to be in their culture, or not. If what they do willingly is bothersome to you, it is time to go home. YOU are the visitor.
Thanks for bringing us this story.

‘A pure Masai man’

Amy — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Is it any wonder they still live in the dark ages?

‘A pure Masai man’

Sean, Torrington CT — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:10:57 GMT

As a man, I gotta do all the yardwork, fix the cars, fix/improve the house manage finances AND earn the dough. I don't see what you women are complaining about.

I'd trade places with my wife in an instant if she could earn what I earn. She probably wouldn't want to :D

‘A pure Masai man’

Michael Cohen, Deltona, FL — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:28:12 GMT

We westerners mostly are raised with modern comforts and conveniences. But there was a time when our ancestors lived like the Masai, as herdsman and farmers. We are only as happy as we make up our minds to be. Most of us could not live like the Masai and other pastoral cultures and be satisfied. Our western culture has become very complex. Our women have fought for and gained many privileges traditionally reserved for men. But we have allowed our family values to deteriorate in the process. When our women exercized their traditional duties we didn't have so many separations and divorces. And we didn't have the technology we have now but probably were happy anyway. The Masai are blessed that they are left on their own lands and not victimized by Westerner's addictions like alcohol, tobacco and cocaine and heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and cancer.

‘A pure Masai man’

Maarten Haarhuus — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:32:21 GMT

John writes: " What a pity for these men! Imagine, if these women have all gone away, these men's existence would cease. And you ... you want to become one, just like them. Such greatness in your ways of thinking!"

what a presumptuous little man you are, to assume that our forms of bondage are somehow morally superior to theirs, or that they find anything at all binding about their lives. and the reductio ad absurdum about the disappearing women: just silly.

‘A pure Masai man’

Ken Arthur, Brownsville, Vermont — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:40:25 GMT

Njeri; You have hit the nail on the head. Western civilizations have a history of showing "lesser" cultures the PROPER way to live. From Africa to Australia to the Americas, "progree" has been sewn with force, coercion, financial ruin and extermination. With all of the temptations thrown around by Westernized nations, its a true wonder that there are any of the old cultures left. A tribute to their beliefs and the buffer zone that distance can allow.And the fact that they have little to offer the insatiable appetites of the modern world ---- yet. As attractive as the life of a Masai might seem, I doubt there would be few takers for a swap of life styles - on either side.

‘A pure Masai man’

Kathy B. Avery Island, LA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:03:27 GMT

It seems to me the Masai women are quite capable of managing the society as a matriarchal one, and indeed, may be doing so, only keeping the men around for sex (multiple partners are always a more interesting scenario), procreation, and to fetch the cows in at milking time. I'd like to suggest a portion of the chattering and laughter is directed towards the hapless chaps under the tree passing around a stick to enable each to speak. The Masai women control the rhythms of life in their community.

‘A pure Masai man’

Scott , Vanouver,WA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:13:04 GMT

Dave makes a good point. Before the Germans and the British put an end to it 100 years ago, the tribes of East Africa spent a great deal of time combating each other, which I'm certain did occupy the men's days with something other than herding their cattle.

‘A pure Masai man’

Gramma SCNM — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:24:05 GMT

What the Masaii women accept is adult responsibility. Its a shame that so many men of all nationalities think of themselves as men when in fact they are still children, incapable of taking care of their own basic needs...including the responsibility to safegauard, educate and be responsible for the children. As the reporter noted, they laugh and smile when among other women & children. Perhaps that is because they have no real use for those men other than procreation!

‘A pure Masai man’

Colin Arch, Los Angeles, California — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:28:12 GMT

Yes, they are a wonderful simple culture, where the men have a great life, the woman work hard all day and yet are happy. But first consider they live in a hot climate, without any sort of luxuries. They indure terrible deluges during the rainy season and don't have indoor plumbing. If a predator comes calling they have to protect both humans and cattle with spears and sticks.
The real problem with their nomadic way of life is that it is not sustainable. The increasing number of tribal members, cattle and decreasing open range for their cattle is starting to interfere with the the game areas which are the key tourist attractions in this area. The long-term future looks somewhat bleak, as man, whoever he is, will eventually force the wildlife into smaller and smaller pockets, and especially during long droughts and floods there will be a limited source of grazing for both their livestock and wildlife, and we all know who eventually wins.

‘A pure Masai man’

Walker — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:28:01 GMT

You people need to get a grip. The Masai, if they visited the Western world, would move in a minute if they could. And I wonder what the Masai life expectancy is compared to that in the West; not to mention the many pests and diseases they deal daily with that we, here, never even think about. Their lives are simple and less cluttered with stuff to be sure, but It ain't all peaches and cream, I assure you.

‘A pure Masai man’

Anonymous, Dallas, TX — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 03:04:37 GMT

One thing you forgot to mention about Masai traditions. Usually a man propose for marriage while a women is pregnant, and incase if the child is a boy, then he will be his best friend. Go Masai Go!

‘A pure Masai man’

Papa Dallas TX — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 03:49:37 GMT

You go to someone's country, he treats you well, gives you gift or treasured items, allows you into his social circle, you go back to your country and disparage him. Of course, I should kept in mind that that is how arrogant and condescending white people are. Of course they would never treat a Black American, never mind an African, the way the Masai treated them...

‘A pure Masai man’

Najivunia Kuwa Mkenya — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:39:53 GMT

While I always enjoy a story from my homeland which has a positive spin, I feel that each article should have a footnote stating that ... "this is a specific case not applicable to the entire nation or to Africa as whole." More power to you Mr. Fletcher. How about a story about the digitized Nairobi Stock Exchange, The properous flower industry, The business and politico-savvy women in power or the vibrant entertainment scene?

‘A pure Masai man’

m parker, sfca — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:44:31 GMT

another easily arguable "downside" to being a Masai woman is experiencing the ritual clitorectomy ...
(still want to be a Masai man?)
i visited the Masai Mara very recently -- between us, i prefer California, even with Arnold.

‘A pure Masai man’

MLZ, Philadelphia. PA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:48:08 GMT

Having spent time with the Masai in Kenya, (and trust me you DON'T want to be down wind of them) when I returned to the States it was the 1st,last, and only time I did a "JP2"---knelt and kissed the ground. If their life is so great, why is their life expectancy around age 32?

‘A pure Masai man’

Kevin Wong, San Diego, CA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 05:14:49 GMT

How/Where do the Masai people obtain medical care
when they are sick or injured? Do their children
go to school of some kind? Please respond if you
can to kevin_r_wong@hotmail.com

‘A pure Masai man’

Abdul, Karachi, Pakistan — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 05:30:08 GMT

Mr Fletcher, I very much enjoyed reading your article. Keep up the good work!

‘A pure Masai man’

David — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 05:35:01 GMT

Westerners!!, come to reality, masai people are just as other african tribes, the problem is, "selling your stories", you need to look at these people as human and humans only. I live with them and the one thing i wish you do is live a "Respectiful life", the way of the masai's, Period.

‘A pure Masai man’

r.d. edmonton ab canada — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 05:40:54 GMT

nice and interesting good pictures too.

‘A pure Masai man’

ndegwa wainaina, atlanta , ga — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 06:08:57 GMT

As a Kenyan man living in America i tend to differ with the author. As much the author craves to live as a man in this unique african society, the women are the matriachs, every man dreads a woman who can't bear them a heir to their wealth (which the women cultivate). The woman in the Maasai, African tradition and african modern culture as a whole hold the same influence over man thus the african saying "behind every successful man is a smart woman". Polygamy (note: no woman will agree to marry you if you cant afford to take care of her) on the other hand, cures many social ills i.e high divorce rates, abortion and single parenthood.

‘A pure Masai man’

Craig Wilson, Vacavillle, CA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 06:31:09 GMT

What is not said is that defending the teibe against predacious lion and other tribes (not to mention poachers servicing demand from the "civilized world" and government troops fighting poachers io curry favor with the "civilized world" is a duty that falls only to the men - as is hunting, scouting and virtually every other task that entails significant risk of death or maiming. On average the woman outlive the men by several years, and inherit whatever "wealth" and "status" their husbands possessed. They are not unhappy with their lot, nor are the men... and we would judge (and condemn) them for this? How utterly and westernly arrogant.

‘A pure Masai man’

Mapa, Vientiane, Laos — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 06:59:04 GMT

The western idea of living the great life is to acquire wealth and power. It is so unlike those cultures and peoples that we call primitives. Maybe they found what we are still looking for, namely happiness. They've lived like this for thousands of years so they must be doing something right: living in harmony with nature and family members actually do care for each other and they all know their place in society. We have to find something to complain about, something to change and change it again and again... we just can't be happy and content with what we have.
When you visit the very same Masai twenty years from now you might still find your way around for probably nothing has changed. Do the same in a city and you'll be lost. So maybe the moral is: why change something that has been good to you for thousands of years?

‘A pure Masai man’

Phillip Preston — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 07:54:35 GMT

Good 'ole USA, where the women are women and the men are too! Seriously, our culture suffers from a lack of the 'rites of passage'. While warrior spirit is genetic to human males, its spiritual recognition used to be celebrated by the fine tradition of USMA. It may yet be discovered again when the scalawags need be driven from the land.

‘A pure Masai man’

Margaret J. — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 07:58:05 GMT

Genital mutilation at 13 (initially so woman wouldn't want to stray) means that there is no enjoyment of sex with their husband. Women want children and home and companionship. Sounds to me like women may have invented polygamy. A 20% share of the lazy pile of arrogance resting under a tree would be enough of a share for me. I would prefer to share the burdens and joys of day to day life with other women who were my equals than to share that life with someone who considered himself above me because he had a stick and did all the talking.

‘A pure Masai man’

Ralph Grimaldi — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 08:56:38 GMT

The article was presented in a proper way and the feedback from interrested readers was placed along side it in an honest fashion. I enjoyd the heck out of each. Thankyou for the "presentation" and esp. for the way it was handled.

‘A pure Masai man’

Rick of T'ton — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:47:58 GMT

I was fascinated by your story, and by some of the comments I read following it. Women in America should be so glad that they have a CHOICE in working or not, and for the freedoms they have to pursue life in whatever way they want. The factthat the NBC group heard "laughter" shows that the people are either happy or resigned. I think the latter!

‘A pure Masai man’

Steve Santa Rosa, CA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 10:04:16 GMT

Lisa: basically Masai men tend their cattle keep their women pregnant and tending the fire. You go guys! Amanda it is Jambo; not Jumbo.

‘A pure Masai man’

Connie, Rome, GA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 11:09:54 GMT

Very interesting article - enjoyed it. Had to smile at the last line tho, I know he must be absolutely exhausted!!

‘A pure Masai man’

james ruttan sarnia ontario canada — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 11:10:17 GMT

get the politicians a talking stick they spend all their time with their mouths open and their ears shut.

‘A pure Masai man’

Jared S. — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:07:55 GMT

Thank you to all the Africans who are pointing out the rediculousness of this article. Romanticized images of African 'tribes' is an old European racist notion based on the Noble Savage. Maasai as an identity is not ancient, not in the least. And the people who claim Maasai identity do not live exactly like people who claimed Maasai identity one hundred years ago. People everywhere at every time change. These people are smart, cruel, hard-working, etc. In short they are just like everyone else, with all of humanity's strenghts and weaknesses.

And just because there is no long legal process for a divorce doesn't mean that the man can just throw the woman out at will. I wonder what the divorce rate among Masaai is. If it's less than the 50% which is common, and increasing, in the West than maybe we should reconsider which people don't value the opposite gender.

‘A pure Masai man’

C., South Carolina — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:52:33 GMT

I had a birthday party a few years ago and one of the male guests was loudly dominating all conversation.

Finally somebody picked up a banana out of the fruit bowl and started talking into it, like a microphone. No one talks unless they have the banana!

It worked.

For a little while.

Ultimately it became clear that if a person is that callous towards others, no amount of bananas could inspire their respect for very long.

He had no shame, only the entitlement of a male ego- that begged to be questioned by everyone there who suffered it.

No matter.

Banana or walking stick aside,
respect is respect is respect.

If the Masai man believes he is entitled to silence, mutilate, prostitute and make slaves of others, it begs the question; does that not matter?

Is he not a sociopath?

‘A pure Masai man’

Andrew, Minneapolis — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:02:21 GMT

Something to keep in mind is that the Maasi are not unchanged. Their traditional range has been shrunk, some of their activities are no longer possible or are changed to accomodate the outside world. One of the ways they've chosen to adapt is to accomodate tourists--what Martin Fletcher witnessed was at least partially a tourist attraction.

‘A pure Masai man’

C.P. Miami, FL — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:14:39 GMT

I spent some time in Kenya, and the Masai culture is unique. I must say, as a woman, I respect them for not assimilating and changing their customs toward our more western society. Our society is not necessarily better because that's what we are accustomed to as a standard. They do have numerous wives, and their women work extremely hard. I could not imagine working as a Masai woman, and my schedule is hectic enough as a physician. However, there is piety and a mutual respect amongst them that we lack in our society now. I do, however, dislike the fact that their women are not allowed to attend higher levels of education. Ultimately, I respect their culture despite their differences with our own and Masai men were the humblest, nicest, most caring men I met while in Kenya.

‘A pure Masai man’

Abdirahman Dahir, Grand Rapids, MI — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:50:52 GMT

As a Kenyan living in the USA, I always feel great and happy to read comments like this from the land i love!!!. But to an average america, Kenya a small coutry only about 583,000 sq Km has about 42 tribes, making a similar 42 of such traditions. I come from North Eastern province of Kenya, My dad is married to 3 wifes and i have 28 sisters and brothers, and my family were the happiest family i have ever met. Therefore as the saying goes, one mans meat is another mans poison, dont dwell much on circumcisions,polygamy etc. We need to get to know other cultures, thats why when we see a muslim women fully covered the western cultures goes to conclusion saying they are been abused, get educated and we will be respected!!!

‘A pure Masai man’

Tony — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:56:16 GMT

In Japan, women are not allowed to go to Sumo Rings, simply they are considered unclean. How about that? That is the culture and tradition!!!.
It is even reported that a female Mayor in one of the cities had to delegate her powers to a male during a presentation ceremony!!!because females are not allowed near the SUMO areas!!
Every society has its own cultural values.

‘A pure Masai man’

Peter, Greensboro, NC — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:58:52 GMT

By going out there, my good friend, to mingle with the Massai, you have done what we all Americans should be doing. Global cultural awareness is the key to getting along and respecting one another. Our level of ignorance of other cultures and unwarranted spite for them is very disturbing. Every culture has it's negative aspects and there is always something positive to learn from every culture as well. Massai is such an example. If you're ever in Greensboro, NC, come and watch the cultural display of Ibos of Africa. You will be thrilled as well.

‘A pure Masai man’

Joseph Hull — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 15:02:00 GMT

Why not do an article on the oddities of American family life, of which there are many?

‘A pure Masai man’

Dan Salt Lake, Utah — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 15:07:45 GMT

How sad that so many typical feminists and neutered men are offended by the lifestyle of the Masai. It has endured for eons. I read women on here talking about "waiting on their man hand and foot while he has only one job." Bull! That "one" job often consists of earning an income, doing repairs at home, maintaining the yard and the equipment for it, heavy lifting, pest control, auto maintenance, soundboard for the Mrs. problems of the day without reciprocation and also getting lambasted for not "helping around the house." In the meantime, these "subservient" women are at their own jobs while sticking their children in daycare or turning them into latchkey kids when older and constantly complaining about it.
The Masai culture is an ancient one and it functions. How about stopping the arrogance and assuming you all know what they would prefer or how "demeaning" it is to their women and blah, blah, blah. See to your own life and the second, third or fourth marriage you're in and try to figure out why you can't succeed at a relationship.

‘A pure Masai man’

Troy Wilson, Wallops Island, VA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 15:26:40 GMT

I loved your story, I also spent time on the Mara with those Great Masi tribesmen, and being an African American male it was a feeling of LOVE, HOME, and total ENJOYMENT! It is good to hear good news of Africa and not the "usually" bad news of my beloved Homeland! God Bless you Sir.

‘A pure Masai man’

R. Marshall, Wash, DC — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 15:45:07 GMT

What the article did not mention is that it is the men who defend the tribe, who are expected to fight and die, if necessary, to defend the women and children.

What happens to a Masai woman who is devorced?

‘A pure Masai man’

Gene Paccasassi, Memphis Tn. — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 15:52:29 GMT

You showed me dayes of their living conditions, I wonder of their dieing conditions?

‘A pure Masai man’

Alan, Anchorage,Ak. — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:21:45 GMT

Your article and the readers comments caused me to think of my childhood while growing up in N. California 55 years ago. As the years passed by, our quality of life improved, while becoming so much more complicated. I've learned through life's experience, and having spent considerable years in Thailand and other S.E. asian countries, that too much western influence,(technology), while improving many aspects of civilized life, is a two edged sword, having negative side effects for some cultures. If people of other countries are happy with their lives, leave well enough alone. Ah! as they say, "I miss the good old days".

‘A pure Masai man’

benthere Panama City. Fl — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:25:02 GMT

For all of you who think we have so much to learn, and those so quick to run down our society in favor of the Masai, buy a plane ticket, go live with them and do as they do. Be sure to buy a round trip ticket so you can come back to the USA when you need medical help for malaria, and all the other health problems you will encounter. What we can really learn is that sitting on your a-- all day and making slaves out of women does not get you much in terms of longevity and contibuting to the human race.

‘A pure Masai man’

mwaura worcester ma — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:42:41 GMT

The same old americans ignorance. like Njeri said the main thing is to respect humanity

‘A pure Masai man’

Jenny, Washington DC — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:43:40 GMT

I have to disagree with someone earlier who said that the Maasai way of life is degrading the landscape and threatening the wildlife. Having studied human wildlife conflict in Southern Kenya with the Maasai it is not the traditional nomadic herding behavior that is threatening the landscape. It is that some of the Maasai, but also people other tribes moving into that area that are settling into permanent settlements and growing crops that is threatening the wildlife. These permanent settlements are threating the natural wildlife migration not the pastoral lifestyle that has coexisted with the wildlife in that area for a very long time. The problem with this is that the wildlife is so important to the local economies there kenya esp. gets a significant proportion of the GDP from wildlife tourism so it is important that all the people living in that area find some sort of balance to co-exisit with the wildlife. The Maasai have so far proved to have the most compatiable lifestyle to this balance.

‘A pure Masai man’

Root of All Evil? — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:56:51 GMT

I look forward to the day when I can read one of these articles and the ensuing comments without being repeatedly insulted and belittled for being white or American. (Njeri, Papa Dallas, etc...) I find it amusing that the people making these comments are making broad, negative generalizations about people based on the color of their skin. Guess what that makes you? Yep! If you want spout ignorant racist commentary, please find yourself a nice little hate-oriented website and leave me alone. Thanks!

‘A pure Masai man’

quizzical, oakland ca — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:57:50 GMT

I think of my friend and colleague Mpeti Ole Surum, who came to Boston from Kenya and earned a living telling school-children about the Maasai way of life. An amazing man with a handshake to be prepared for! He married and had a son with an American woman, and lived in the suburbs and drove a Lexus. We were devastated when on one of his frequent visits to Kenya, he was killed in a car accident outside Nairobi.

It's tempting to think of any group of people as purely anything - Westerners as greedy consumers, hamster-wheeling to keep up with the mortgage and bickering over division of domestic labor, or "tribal people" as simple and basic, got it figured out ages ago and paid for that by not noticing when they're oppressed ane foregoing indoor plumbing.

But wow. Mapping the values of one group of people onto the daily lives of another is bound to yield some some surprises and contradictions, some form of "culture shock," some wistfulness about how "they" have it better, or judgement about things we find alien or even repugnant.

What's cool to me right now is the way WE have found to have our say, then pass the stick and listen. Thanks for the article and the discussion.

‘A pure Masai man’

Steve, Chicago, il — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:15:07 GMT

These people are happy and uncontanimated. They are are organic. They are happy and contented with what they have ( being alive). Westerners whine, complain, always busy, never sleep, and who does not have some pills in the med carbinet. Polygamy is an agreed thing.The first wife always suggests and the man goes for it. As bad as it sounds where this is "purely" practiced there are no single mothers, no abortions, no orphans and by the way what % of Maasai have HIV/AIDS. The food they eat ( Meat,soups and blood), you need two or more...
I may not do what they do but trust me if this keeps them healthy and organic I am visiting...
By the way how many westerners and really happy and contented and not blaiming everything on somebody? By the way, do you know why Americans are never happy? It is because of Bush... Here we go again.
Did you just say say the the chief spoke to you in English? I thought they were living in stone age.. sorry.. somebody said they just stand on those sticks the whole day. Maybe somebody has been going to school.
Lastly, the young boys have to kill a lion armed with only an sharp stick and a spear to be a man. Now lets try that to a Westerner. Okay, gear include a semi Automatic, a telescope, binoculars, a ladder to climb on that tree, a cell phone to call 911, an ambulance in case, a nd a backup pistol if it comes too close plus three months training at $200 /hr.
Who is the real man?

‘A pure Masai man’

Craig, travelin all over — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:21:48 GMT

Nice article Fletcher, it occurred to me however that the modern version of your talking stick is displayed below your article here. Hard to interrupt someone elses blog.
Enough can't be said about being happy no matter your circumstances. Elie Wiess had it right. For anyone to determine whether someone elses life is right or good or appropriate is the epitomy of arrogance, welcome to western civilization. If enough Masai were unhappy with thier lifestyle they would change it. Thats how it works. since they are obviously happy lets not interfere with a good thing. Just think of your reaction to them if they came to your house and insisted you should tear it down and build a "nice house" out of cow dung and sticks or that you should quit being a selfish disrespectful woman and quit work and be a good mother and housewife.

‘A pure Masai man’

Margie, TX/ VT — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:24:13 GMT

In response to Kevin, their medical care is pretty aweful. My sister used to be a nurse in the Rift Valley, and she treated so many Masai women and babies with deformities and diseases that are quite preventable, with better nutrition, pure water, etc. My mom and I went to visit her, when I was twelve, and I still have distinct memories of holding grinning, laughing babies (who stank terribly of urine and sour milk), whoes lips were cleft, or whoes bellies were bloated and sore from infections. But, like the author said, they were generally happy, the children and adults. They thought nothinging of tasks that would totally daunt a Westerner (and they don't have huge problems with stress and depression-go figure). For instance, there were some mothers, who were no older than middleschoolers, who walked for days to get to the hospital, to try and get help for their children.
So many of them die, when they don't have to. I am all about preserving traditions, but at the same time, more modern medicine would go a very long way towards improving the quality of life. They don't even have such simple things as Advil! I really can't speak for their education, but medically, they're in pretty tough shape.

‘A pure Masai man’

sgt shot, just got back from second tour — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:31:41 GMT

I don't find this difficult to believe at all, I am the ruler of my house (when my wife isn't around) I make the decisions (when my wife lets me). I like seeing different cultures and how they work. I have travelled this earth extensivly, and I am always amazed at the cultures I encounter. Americans are unique in our own way, we are truly the melting pot of the world and we tend to progress quicker than the rest of the world. We are open to new ideas and inventions. We are constantly striving to reach new hieghts. if these people are content to live how they see fit, so be it. I am going to take one idea from them and I will be constructing my own talking stick, it will most likely be made from a wooden spoon as it is my turn for dinner tonight, but I will parade about my house with my talking stick, barking orders and running the house as I see fit. Of course it will not take long for my wife to remove the walking stick from my grasp and quite possibly whack me on the head with it. She will then be the bearer of the talking stick and I will be back in the kitchen speed dialing Papa Johns....mmmmmmm....paaaapaaaa joooohns...but it will be fun while it lasts. cool article.

‘A pure Masai man’

Janey, St. Louis, MO — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:40:14 GMT

One of many challenges about reporting different cultures is gender- many times, when women come in and interview the same people, they'll get a different story. For instance, if someone were to interview the women, they may have said, "Men say we do what?!". Seeing as how America constantly struggles with sexism, racism, and colonialism, we certainly seem to look through that lens when learning about indigenous people. Pastoral people tend to be semi-egalitarian...then you have the issue of what the people were like before western influence, which is something that we probably will never know.

Maybe the women were laughing because they knew the men were making up stories that the westerners would believe- or maybe they were laughing at the men who have to use a stick to talk when they just figured out how to converse without props. Or maybe they're laughing at the guy who believes men are making all the decisions....or at the men who believe they're making the decisions...because *if* they're truly the ones doing most of the work, they're also obviously active decision-makers...or maybe they're laughing at the men who think they're the only ones with more than one lover, or that they've fooled him about the paternity of their children the man is supporting...maybe they weren't happy at all, but were being polite...

I've never bought the argument that women in indigenous cultures a) are/were always oppressed and b) like it (which reminds me of the common idea during American slavery that slaves liked or needed slavery). That doesn't make sense- if women weren't stronger and smarter than that, humanity would have died off long ago. A group within any culture, if oppressed, usually finds a way to challenge it- be it building alliances, overthrowing, bargaining, etc. The only exception is when that group feels they truly have no way out except death. Unfortunately, people gathering information on these groups often have little or no reference point about oppression, so they'll miss significant subtleties. Not saying this is what happened- but I do have an anthropological background, and I know this is a consistent problem. People are people, and we tend to either learn to respect those in our communities & get along or kill each other off...

‘A pure Masai man’

Pat, Los Angeles — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 18:38:17 GMT

It is so easy for Westerners to criticize Maasai (Mr. Fletcher should learn to spell the word correctly) culture without understanding both the environment in which they live and the society itself. I've spent quite a bit of time with the Maasai and one thing that people have to experience themselves before they can truly understand it is that these people are 100% dependant on the land and the weather. Their livestock is their life. If they lose even one goat it is a major loss to the family. Thus, the most important job there is to do is to protect the livestock. Like any job in protection, 99% of the time you end up sitting around doing nothing. But you are paid, or in the case of the Maasai men respected, for that time when you have to defend your cattle against a lion, leopard, hyena, or whatever.
I am not in any way condoning some of the practices that the Maasai continue to observe including female genital mutilation, child marraige, etc. Those are things that should be stopped regardless of how they fit into their culture because they are cruel and inhumane. But the idea of a lazy Maasai man is something that is more a result of viewing a culture from an outsiders perspective than the reality of life in Maasailand.

‘A pure Masai man’

Chiku, Coolidge, Arizona — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 19:57:58 GMT

I enjoyed reading all of the comments from other people after the article. A couple really good comments are Njeri, Sundee, and Betsy Zink. They know the Maasai and the African culture well it sounds like. When I visited this tribe, the chief's wife came up to Pat and I. She was huge--not fat, but extremely tall and powerful looking--and BEAUTIFUL. She had a regal quality about her and a fierceness to protect the way her tribe was viewed. Before we began filming their circumcision dance ceremony (tonight was a circumcision for the males) she asked both Pat and I what we were to do with our videos and how we would portray their tribe. We assured her we only had good intentions with our research and we would not portray their circumcision or customs in a bad light. Only then were we permitted to continue, but she watched us the whole time, peering down at us--she must have been about 7 feet tall! I've tried to hold true to my promise to her because she was very upset with those who portrayed their female customs of circumcision and gender roles in a bad light. The women are a very proud and capable people as are the men and each enjoys their position in their tribe. One thing that nobody commented on was their religious view of God as a woman. I believe the Maasai men recognize a woman's great abilities and seeing deity as a female seems to show their respect and love for womanhood. I don't believe they belittle their women at all and the women take great pride in the responsibilities their men give them. I really enjoyed the comments on this article because I wasn't sure if the whole translation we got about their tribe came across correct, but it seems, from the comments of Sundee and Betsy, that a lot of what I understood was correct. Respect their way of life and don't judge their way of love or customs until you've lived with them, speak their language, and are given the "ok" from the main tribal lady.

‘A pure Masai man’

Alice Bigelow, Sandy Utah — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 20:14:57 GMT

I'm an ER Nurse who spent several with the Masai last year working in portable clinics. I saw many sick, malnourished women and children, many with large ulcers on their legs who had walked for hours to our make-shift clinics. For most of these Masai, this was the first time they had ever had any type of health care. The young girls (5th grade) were very afraid of their up coming "circumcision" and were NOT looking forward to it in any way!
Did the Masai warriors tell Mr. Fletcher about the young girls who run away to avoid circumcision? These girls are frequently eaten by lions, or other wild animals on the Mara. If they make it to a village/town, they must be able to enroll in school, which means finding someone, or a charity organization to sponser them or they will be sent back to their masai village, and to circumcision.
I am also wondering if Mr. Fletcher was able to visit a Masai market, if so did you notice all of the women selling their goods? They always looked to their man to make sure that they didn't settle for too little. If they had sold something for too little, the silent exchange between husband and wife was all telling. She would bow her head, looking ashamed, and frequently another woman would step up to the table to take her place. Two Masai women told me that they would leave if they could, but there is no where for them to go. These women have not options, so of course they make the best of their situation.
Yes the Masai sang, danced and laughed, as did the people in the horrible slums of Nairobi.
Kenya is rich in culture that is much different than ours, please don't sugar coat the differences or omit them. There is much we can all learn from these differences.

‘A pure Masai man’

anyone, anywhere, USA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 20:59:47 GMT

statements appearing here like,
"tough, hardy, masculine men who don,t and never will apologize for being men are still loved and appreciated....
When our women exercized their traditional duties we didn't have so many separations and divorces...
Yes, they are a wonderful simple culture, where the men have a great life, the woman work hard all day and yet are happy...
Good 'ole USA, where the women are women and the men are too...
While warrior spirit is genetic to human males... basically Masai men tend their cattle keep their women pregnant and tending the fire. You go guys!"

Regardless of what is and is not true of this article, American sentiments like this about gender equality or lack thereof are extremely disturbing (and telling). Ugh.

‘A pure Masai man’

sean fitzpatrick, Dallas, TX — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 21:29:32 GMT

I recently read a book about the Masai. It is called "Ivory". It is a Sci.-Fi. story about the last Masai and the 'greatest' animal trophy ever. In this story there are several statements about the Masai. I wonder how many of them are true:
1. Before foreign goverments took over, the Masai controlled the largest and best piece of grazing land in africa.
2. At that time there were only about 30,000 Masai.
3. They were considered the proudest and most fierce warriors in the land. Nobody crossed the Masai.
4. When the foreign goverments took over they took the Masai's spears and shields. The Masai men could no longer defend themselves or participate in the rite of passage to manhood by killing a lion armed only with a spear.They also lost their own language and spoke Swahili.

‘A pure Masai man’

ken houston — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 23:48:21 GMT

"We have alot to learn from these nomadic hedsmen". Do you all know that if we adopted masai culture of sharing wives and husbands (a masai woman is allowed to share her husband with other wives and a masai man is allowed to share other masai's wives through placement of a spear in front of their doorways) we would put cheaters program out of business?

‘A pure Masai man’

Joel C. Lansing, MI — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 01:22:40 GMT

I just implore everyone to learn from this story. Don't judge, don't impose your western feminist or mysogynist views on this story. It sickens me to read the men who say things like "know your place," but it also disgusts me the way certain people post feminist comments about the women laughing at the men, or that the women could be a matriarchal society and that they could learn things from our western women. I am not saying I am against women's rights but to impose a western view of how women should act or be in a society on another culture is both ignorant and presumptuous. One must learn to appreciate cultures and people as they are. It is a habbitual error westerners make when they presume they know best and that their view is the correct one. Does anyone ever wonder why divorce and separation is so high here in the US? Does anyone ever wonder why the "richest nation with the most opportunities" produces so many unhappy people? I am not suggesting we emulate other cultures to be happy, although it is true that we could learn from them. To ignore wisdom from another source is idiotic. Now I am rambling...the point is we ought to evaluate ourselves before we presume to judge other people and their cultures. Don't be so sure we are "the smart ones."

‘A pure Masai man’

Dan B, Ft. Wainwright, AK — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 04:18:32 GMT

While some may claim that the lifestyle of the Masai is very convenient for the men, would you believe that we in the West are just as sexist? Just the fact that we believe the Masai's lifestyle to be wrong speaks volumes on it. If real, true feminists are so proud to be as powerful as men, wouldn't they cherish the responsibility of a man, a responsibility taken from an era when men ruled? To be the sole provider, to be the bread-winner/home-builder/whatever-doer?

I just find that interesting that we are so sexist in every way, we feel the need for everyone to be totally 'equal'. There is never equality in the universe. That is called entropy, and while all systems run towards it, there are always natural forces opposed.

I'm done ranting. Flame away, but I think we all can admit, at least us Westerners, that we have an unrealistic view on life, and are WAY too concerned with equality and material and monetary gains.

‘A pure Masai man’

Ewart Hinkson Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies. — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 12:07:41 GMT

A man is as happy as he or she feels. Proper medical health care, a good job, a fancy car and big house house does not stop one from committing suicide. Hats off the Masai man.

‘A pure Masai man’

Francesco Sinibaldi — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 19:33:20 GMT

In the tears of a shadow.

Near the streamlet,
and where a rustic
fireplace remembers
the sound of a
countryside, I see
a timid and innocent
care; and besides,
like the scent
of a swallow, a
tender bell-finger
discovers a faith.

‘A pure Masai man’

kibuthu2000 Birmingham, Alabama — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 07:40:54 GMT

well, well i've read every fact from every writer but you failed to acknowledge things keep changing like weather but reality gonna stand and judge you with the things happening now and the things which happenened at the past.For me personally i don't agree with you for that kind of a cultural and customs applied by masai as a tool to be honored by their culture is awkleward and living in a past life which does not benefit the whole society they should join with others to acquire knowledge because its' not sold in gourd in ablack market period.Leave about the past, history gonna remind you about the past.my point is ,can we leave like masai? ok if yes how are we going to shape our history?

‘A pure Masai man’

ali, minneapolis, Mn — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 22:38:34 GMT

another sad example were we try to impose our standards on other people.

‘A pure Masai man’

GaryB, PA, CA — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 23:07:01 GMT

I like the modern tribes. I wake each morning and herd my code on the internet. When people "talk" to me, we take turns, each with email or chat. Tis a simple life, but rewarding.

‘A pure Masai man’

Margaret Khan — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 01:58:04 GMT

While contentment and simplicity can always be achieved regardless of where one lives,is it not "our" business to educate others on how to promote "our" health? Mr Flethcher, did you ask Kipas if the Masai men and women are aware of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)?

‘A pure Masai man’

Jay Draiman, Northridge, CA — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 05:46:01 GMT

If we learn to respect each other and listen, we can learn a lot from each other. Family values and the family unit have been and is the strength that helped humanity survived to date. Where the future is going, I can not tell you.

‘A pure Masai man’

Matt, Birmingham,Alabama — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:45:21 GMT

Maybe you'd be less eager to be a Maasai man if you realized that killing a lion single-handedly (which is seldom done today due to governmental regulations)is only one of the prerequisites. If you think you're able to kill enough songbirds with a rungu (throwing stick/club)to make yourself a full headdress or able to stand the pain of an unanesthetized circumcision without showing ANY sign of pain, by all means go for it. Ati, I hate the way people here blather on about things they have no understanding of.

‘A pure Masai man’

Wairimu, Kenya — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 18:25:56 GMT

‘If the Masai man believes he is entitled to silence, mutilate, prostitute and make slaves of others, it begs the question; does that not matter?
Is he not a sociopath?’
C., South Carolina (Sent Friday, September 21, 2007 8:52 AM)

Now if that’s not an absurd conclusion, I don’t know what is. The Maasai maybe chauvinistic but so are men in many other countries, including this one. Drop the feminist rhetoric, it gets old and produces nothing positive.

For sean fitzpatrick, Dallas, TX, as you said it was a sci-fi book. People are changing with the influence of Westernization of the world so of course language and customs are dying away.
The Maasai like everyone else had skirmishes with others including their Kikuyu neighbours e.g. raiding for women and cattle.

Bottom-line for me is that whereas the Maasai have been able to sustain their traditional practices for a lot longer that many of us have, let us neither romanticize nor demonize the reasons for that or their way of life with no real understanding of whom they are. It would be good to see a travel article that does not advance either the ‘noble savage’ or the ‘poor backward African’ stereotypes. It’s patronizing and ultimately quite demeaning.

‘A pure Masai man’

lolo — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 19:11:23 GMT

just remember my people,learning and teching is the spirit of the future.

‘A pure Masai man’

mwisho, morogoro, Tanzania — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:07:05 GMT

i have taken the time to read all the above comments plus the story ! i am a tanzanian and we have massai s too contrary to popular belief that they are kenyan they are actually a nomadic tribe. most of the comments come from western minded people who can never say anything good about an african and always go attacking ower culture. the nbc guy says the cows were a hundred yards away i wonder if he asked from what time the man started sheparding them and how far they go each day to search for food and water and where they are located ( in the middle of the bush) .alot of masais also exist in towns and there u will find most of the woman busy doing business while the guys are usually night watchman this is how they live the man are trained warriors and the woman hold the people together making them the strong culture u seee today! so please before being critical try and understand the right way of living is certainly not the american way (western). i for one am so dissapointed when i try to get african news i only see DARFUR, SOMALIA and the rest is iraq

‘A pure Masai man’

Laura D., Newtown, CT — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 13:07:00 GMT

When I visited the Masai about 12 years ago I didn't think the women laughed anymore or less than a group of women anywhere else. What I did go away wondering was why some cultures don't change over time and others do. I keep reading comments that the Masai live with nature, accept their surroundings, maintain their traditions and way of life...but where is their inventiveness, their art, their urge to create, and explore? When day to day life is a struggle just to feed your self and you children there is no opportunity for anything else. There were a few more things I noticed on my visit: the oldest person in the village couldn't have been more than 40, half the children had conjuntivitis, and many of the adults (most in their 20s & 30s) had knee and joint problems, and a few had cataracts.