During my precious time in Scotland, particularly when I was a very talkative waiter between 2007 and 2014, everytime I responded to the curious, grinning white patrons’ “where are you from?” In response, the names “Alexander McCall Smith” and “Precious Ramotswe” connected the sentences of many.
“Ohh I know of Botswana, I’ve read The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency books – it sounds like an amazing country”.
“You must also like bush tea! Do you?
Were generally the reactions.
While I would have preferred to hear of “Gaborone”, or “Okavango Delta” if not the delicious “seswaa”, I did find great joy in knowing that my country was famous (ish), too.
Indeed, it was the many white patrons who first introduced me to Alexander, I learnt that he is a Scottish author of “The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” series. I learnt that he was born in Zimbabwe, then Southern Rhodesia, in 1948. I also learnt that, “for many years he was a professor of Medical Law” and he co-founded the University of Botswana Law Faculty in the 80s.
I was very lucky that in 2008 BBC One showed “The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency” series. Finally, I could also start making informed contributions to the Botswana inspired restaurant conversations regarding the likes of “Precious Ramotswe”, “Matekoni” and “Mma Makutsi”.
Even though I did not enjoy taking bread as well as olives to “my tables”, before carefully pouring extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, nor carrying jugs of sangria to most tables, I always looked forward to the countless Alexander McCall Smith and Botswana talks at the La Tasca Restaurant in Union Street, Aberdeen.
In my quest for personal development, yes, “in pursuit of happyness”, today, I’m acutely reminded of my precious time in beautiful Scotland and I’m very encouraged to actively enjoy my journey (still re-learning) in this life and not be too obsessed about the goals or destination.
Because, I might just miss out on the wonderful lessons and rewarding experiences such as the look of hungry customers while I expertly pour oils and vinegar for my tables.
#AlexanderMcCallSmith
#MmaRamotswe
#Botswana
#Scotland
#LaTasca
Blessing Kgosi e tsile Kgasa 