In gratitude for
Malidoma Patrice Somé
January 30, 1956 – December 9, 2021
A Life of Service and Power

Malidoma was a West African writer, diviner, and teacher. Born in a Dagara community in Dano, Burkina Faso, as a child he was taken from his home, “literally kidnapped,” he said, by Jesuit priests in a nearby colonial town. He was placed in a Catholic boarding school, where he lived for the next 15 years, enduring “years of physical and emotional abuse from the priests, who were determined to create another black priest.” This began a life of power, service and ongoing hardship. He eventually earned three masters degrees and a Ph.D., and became a powerful bridge between cultures. A detailed biography can be found here.

I was fortunate to work with Malidoma briefly, far back in both 1986 and 87, and very occasionally over the years. His life story, his presence and his radiant smile will always be a source of inspiration and guidance for me. The world was made better by this man. If you are unfamiliar with his teachings, I highly recommend any of his books.

Here is the official announcement of his passing.

Jaime Meyer
SSP Board President