WHAT DOES COLOUR MATTER?--Part 1

This subject of albinos was another one that I had been thinking and praying about for a long time before I found the right person to help me write it. For the first (and so far only) time I used the real person’s name. I would like to introduce you to Matildah.

I met Mathilda at a seminar I was teaching in Zambia. When I saw her I was so excited. I had done lots of research about the hurdles and hazards of being albino in Africa. I had the privilege of learning firsthand what it was like and how a Christian handles it. “Thank you, Lord.”

Just the physical handicaps are difficult enough. The fragile skin, the poor eyesight. But the superstitions are a whole other level of risk. I thought Tanzania was the only place that albinos were killed for body parts. No, I have learned that it happens in Zambia and Congo; and if there, then you can be sure it is elsewhere. I have also recently learned of the belief that having sex with an albino can cure AIDS.

The explanation of albinism involves understanding genetics. I had to explain that scientific principle in very simple terms. I consulted with some doctors after I got the script written to see if I got it as accurate as possible.

I quoted Matidah and used her exact words as much as possible. When I sent it to Zambia before giving it to anyone to use for her to read and correct, I learned that when she read it she started crying. She loved it.

I love giving people a voice.

NOTE: I use the British spelling because that is what is most common in Africa.