A diplomat should be yielding and supple as a creeper that can be bent but not broken.
More Malawian Proverbs:
Every man is a prince in his own bed.Malawian
It is the fate of the coconut husk to float, for the stone to sink.
Malawian
Though near shore, you're still in the ocean.
Malawian
A deer tethered with a golden chain can escape to the forest to eat grass.
Malawian
Just as a bamboo cane forms a round jet of water, so taking counsel together makes men of one mind.
Malawian
When you are crossing over a river you might be eaten by crocodiles, but don't let yourself get bitten by the little fish.
Malawian