I take reeds from the river that have been nurtured by fresh water and grown in good soil, and I turn them into baskets, a product that has so many uses. I know how to make baskets from something so simple because my father taught me, and his father taught him. Make baskets of your own, he would say, make them all kinds of shapes and colors. But never forget that your baskets are made of something that is there for anyone to cut and use. And never imagine that you created the reeds yourself. You are only the person who shapes them into something that can be of use to others.
The quote emphasizes the importance of tradition and craftsmanship, illustrating how the speaker learns to weave baskets from reeds found in nature. Each basket represents not just a functional object, but a legacy passed down through generations. The act of creating something valuable from simple materials shows the deep connection to one's heritage and the lessons imparted by forebears.
Furthermore, the speaker highlights the humility required in the creative process. While he takes pride in shaping the reeds into various baskets, he acknowledges that the true gift lies in the natural resources provided by the river. This reminder fosters an appreciation for nature and the communal aspect of creativity, stressing that the crafting process involves more than individual effort; it is a shared experience with the environment and those who came before.
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