Sleigh Bells Ring, Are Ya Listenin'?

Before Tracy hung this bell outside our door, we would oftentimes, especially with our poor hearing, fail to realize when one of our Zambian friends was at the door. 

Tracy's mother gave this bell to him before we left for Zambia. It is an antique sleigh bell, and it has a great nostalgic sound to it. Several times we've begun singing, "Sleigh bells ring, are ya listening . . . . "

Zambians are very quiet when they come to the door. They will gently tap or quietly speak, "odi," which announces their presence. In Botswana they say, "koko," which I also like. Zambians somehow missed out on the rowdy, loud gene, when it comes to knocking. In fact, a person who knocks loudly is probably a thief, as they are wanting to know if anyone is home so they can get into mischief. 

I like this gentle way. And hearing the pleasant jangle of this sleigh bell reminds me of these gentle ways. Thanks, Mom!