Maori of New Zealand (16)

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Food, the produce of your own labor, you may eat without stint.

The old home stands, but its owners disappear.

Food given by another person is only a throat tickler
but food gained by the labor of one's own hand
is the food which satisfies.

The fame of a warrior is precarious, while that
of a man strong to cultivate food is lasting.

The pattern of the reed lining of the house
may be followed by the eye,
but not the pattern or figuring of the heart.

❖

Promptness carries the day.

Fools do foolish things.

Prosperity is the fruit of industry,
while idleness begets poverty.

The flounder does not return to the place
he left when disturbed.

The bird which has escaped from
the snare it is vain to follow.

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The corner of the house may be explored
and seen, but not the corner of the heart.

The passing clouds can be seen,
but passing thoughts cannot be seen.

Woman and land are the causes which destroy man.

Rich food is not long stared at;
but a good looking person is attractive.

Old promises are left behind.

❖

In the planting season visitors come singly;
in harvest time in crowds.

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