Affirming Shared Values

In a village nestled within the lush green valleys of Nigeria, the people thrived as farmers. Their community, surrounded by palm trees and thick bushes, was a peaceful place where the villagers cultivated fields of yams, cassava, corn, and various vegetables. Just beyond these fields flowed a deep river known as “Baba.” The river was a cherished companion to the villagers—men fished its waters, women washed clothes along its banks, and children played joyfully in its cool embrace. However, during the rainy season, the river’s gentle nature turned treacherous as it overflowed, posing a threat to the village. To protect themselves, the villagers built a strong dam at a bend in the river, hoping to hold back its powerful waters.

One of the villagers, Modupe, whose name means “I am grateful,” lived alone on a mountain overlooking the valley. A quiet and reserved man, Modupe had lost his wife, and his children had all married and moved away. He built a small hut and cultivated a modest garden on the mountainside. Though he was rarely seen in the village, the people deeply respected Modupe for his healing abilities and considered him one of their own.

One year, as harvest season approached, the rains were particularly heavy. The villagers, busy with their abundant crops, paid little attention to the increasing rainfall. From his vantage point on the mountain, Modupe observed the swollen river straining against the dam. He realized that by the time he could reach the village to warn them, it would be too late; the floodwaters would devastate everything in their path. As he watched, the dam began to crack, and water started to leak through.

Concerned for his fellow villagers, Modupe knew he had to act quickly. An idea struck him, and he rushed to set his small hut on fire. When the villagers saw the flames, they exclaimed, “Our friend is in trouble! Let’s sound the alarm and go help him.” In keeping with their tradition, men, women, and children hurried up the mountain to assist Modupe. But before they could ask what had happened, a thunderous crash behind them made them turn back. To their horror, they saw that the river had broken through the dam, flooding the valley and destroying their homes, temple, and crops.

Amidst their despair, Modupe reassured them. “Don’t worry,” he said, “My crops are still here. We can share them while we rebuild our village.” His words brought comfort, and soon the villagers began to sing and give thanks. They realized that in running to help their friend, they had actually saved themselves.

This story illustrates the importance of being prepared for crises in any community or organization. Like Modupe, leaders must have a strong foundation of shared values to guide their actions, especially in uncertain times. It’s crucial that everyone within an organization understands and aligns with these values. Modupe knew what to do because he had internalized the village’s values, just as his friends had. This is why leaders must work to build consensus around shared values—ensuring that all members of the organization see themselves as part of a larger whole, where survival and success depend on a common understanding of purpose and principles.

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© Ben Benson