“The possessor of a big stool is not necessarily a king.”
Outward symbols of status do not by themselves prove real authority or worth.
— Traditional Togo Wisdom, Togo
Source: Traditional Togo proverb, public-domain oral tradition
More Proverbs from Togo
A cripple does not start a war song.
A boastful challenge should not come from someone unable to back it up — a warning against empty bravado.
Traditional Togo Wisdom
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You change your steps according to the changing rhythm of the drum.
Adapt your approach as circumstances change; rigid thinking fails in a changing world.
Traditional Togo Wisdom
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Tasty soup draws seats to itself.
Good work and good character need no advertising — they naturally attract recognition and company.
Traditional Togo Wisdom
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Every country has its own way of dressing a chicken.
Different communities have different customs; respect local ways when you are among them.
Traditional Togo Wisdom
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The blacksmith of one village becomes an apprentice in another.
Status and reputation are relative to place; do not assume your standing travels with you unchanged.
Traditional Togo Wisdom
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Suffering and happiness are twins.
Joy and hardship are inseparable companions in life; maturity means accepting both.
Traditional Togo Wisdom
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