Ojú t’óti r’òkun,

Ojú t’óti r’òkun, kòlè r’ọsà kóbẹ̀rù.
Translation: The eyes that have seen a mighty ocean will not see a river and be afraid. 

“It is an illness that one treats; one does not treat death,”  explains a Yorùbá proverb. This proverb, deeply rooted in the Yorùbá culture, suggests that one should focus on addressing the issues rather than dwelling on the inevitable. An illness left untreated before death intervenes too late for many victims, emphasizing the importance of timely action and acceptance of life's realities.

A Yorùbá proverb on tragedy implies, “All eyes that see evil and do not go blind will see joy at the end.” The Yorùbá people, who have faced the horrors of deadly viruses and other calamities, have emerged stronger, braver, and more confident. Their resilience is a beacon of hope, a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and overcome even the darkest times.

The Yoruba use this proverb to console victims of tragedies, offering a comforting reminder that joy can follow even in the darkest times. This wisdom is not exclusive to the Yorùbá people; it resonates with all of us, regardless of our cultural background. Just as the wife in this painting is consoling the husband, the Yorùbá proverb provides a source of solace and support in times of hardship for all humanity.