Akokonan

Akoko Nan literally means: the foot of a hen. It is a symbol for nurturing coupled with discipline. This Adinkra is from the proverb, “Akoko nan tia ba na enkum ba,” literally, “The foot of a hen steps on the child (chick) but it doesn’t kill the child (chick).”  

Hens are known to trample on their chicks without hurting them. Meaning it’s important to create a balance between nurturing children and disciplining them. In this symbol you see 2 hen’s legs, with the left side smaller than the right side. On the smaller left side, the toes pointing to the right and represent the disciplining role of a parent, and the right side, which is the bigger leg with the toes pointing to the left, represents the nurturing and embracing role of parents. They are both equally necessary in the upbringing of children.

Love is... discipline, moderated by love’s highest calling, best intentions and most gentle hand.