We were ‘out and about’ in Lilongwe today when we were pulled over by the Malawi police. This happens often. The officer saluted smartly and asked Ron for his driver’s license. No problem! Ron always has it in his pocket!
Mmmmm ….. problem. It had been soaked in rain yesterday and was laying on our bedside table drying out!
‘So sorry sir – it is at our house just around the corner. We will go back and get it.’
‘What kind of driver’s license is it? It is an offence in Malawi not to carry your license.’
‘We appreciate that and we are very sorry sir. We both have international driving licenses. Can Lauris show you her license?’
Surprisingly, he agreed. She pulled a photocopy of both of our licenses.
We asked ‘Would you like us to pay a fine?’
The officer reiterated – ‘It is my his job to enforce the law.’
And then he smiled broadly saying ‘Since you are so organized and wise to carry the copies, you may continue your journey.’
One more big warm Malawian smile and we were on our way.
Malawian kindness in uniform.
We did not ‘push our luck’ by asking him if we could take his photo!
1 comment:
Great post!
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