Just as the left hand went from being called « la main de Satan » (Satan’s hand) to being recognized as a mark of creativity and intelligence, left-handed people have marked an international day.
Left hands was used as a sign of mockery by kids when engaging in their playful activities « la main de Dieu », demonstrating their right hand as God’s hand, and « la main de Satan », which is the left hand. On August 13, Cameroon joins the global community in celebrating the 33rd International Left- Handers Day. This year’s theme, « Recognize and Celebrate Creativity, Adaptability, and Individuality of Left-Handed People », highlights both the challenges and unique qualities of left-handed individuals in a world primarily known for right-handers.
For many left-handers like Baba Moussa, using their left hand is simply second nature. « I do not face any difficulties being left-handed, » Moussa explains. « The same way right-handed people use their right hand is exactly how I use my left. It’s completely normal to me not strange at all. » His matter-of-fact perspective shows how left-handedness can be an unremarkable part of daily life for many.
Take Ojong Suresh, who takes pride in his left-handed identity. « It is a wonderful experience being different from others, » Suresh shares excitedly. « There is this belief that left-handed people are more intelligent and outstanding. Whether that is true or not, I enjoy knowing I’m part of this special group. » He adds with confidence, « I don’t see challenges I just see myself as unique, not different in a bad way. » Interestingly, handedness can vary across different activities.
Some individuals are left-handed but right-footed, preferring to kick balls or lead with their right foot. Others perform activities with both hands perfectly without any disturbance. « The only difference you can notice is when we are writing, » Ojong says. Left-handers occasionally encounter difficulties with tools, desks, and equipment designed exclusively for right-handed use, such as spiral notebooks and computer mice.
What was once shunned is now celebrated. So the day does not only honor left-handed people, but their unique ways of navigating the world. Where societies once saw « Satan’s hand », we now see genius, resilience, and diversity.
