Ghana Times

Tuesday August 18, 2009: The Experience of a lifetime

2009-08-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

***If you are reading this, then it means that I have made it safely back to the USA and am somewhere resting and/or sleeping***

Whew! This has been quite the experience. Quite the adventure. You never really understand why things happen the way that they do. You sit back, try and change what you can and brace yourself for the things that occur with no prior warning. No one really understands how and why God does the things that he does, we simply must have faith that all those things in Christ will work out for the good.

I sit here constantly erasing what I am writing. I don't quite know how to synthesize my words to convey the sense of meaning that I so earnestly desire you to have. It has become a real challenge for me to place all of my gratitude, understanding of place and self, and heavy emotional undertones within the confines of this blog or even a conversation. The fact of the matter is that one must experience something on their own to really gain a greater sense of understanding and admiration for things other than what you are used to.

As my fingers rush across the key board, typing what seems to be a reflection of what is going on in my head, I realize that, not a book, a blog, or a lecture can really begin to shed light on a journey of self. This trip was not about Ghana, Africa or the US foreign mission to Accra, it was about me. How would I take the things that God gave me, refine them, embrace them, and share them with the people here..in this physical space. I remain speechless yet moved by the strong sense of moral realization occuring as I type.

This has been one of the best summers I have ever had. In the same breath it has been one of the most challenging. This summer has asked me, on many occasions to face my fears and ask myself honest questions. To learn to bear the burden and carry my own cross. It has also asked that I become saturated with more than what I have known for many years living at home. I lay awake many nights dreaming of my future. What will it look like? Who will be there? are among the many questions I have. Certainly each step forward in life brings with it more understanding and a clearer sense of self worth.

I could have never imagined that this was how I would be serving my country. For me, diplomatic work has become more than just an American pastime but certainly a way to enrich your life while also enriching the lives of others. I define diplomacy as the "true act of making and keeping good friends". In that, you deal with both the positives and the negatives yet you remain steadfast and dedicated to each other and the depth of the relationship. Diplomacy has taught me many things about life and about people.

How have I changed? Well..I know but I doubt this is something to broadcast. What I can say is that within 10 weeks I have become a better individual for me. The world may not see all that I proclaim, but this trip was not for the world...it was for me. It was my time to change. God has revealed to me more of his perfect will for my life and he used Ghana, not me, as a way to show that. A way to show me that sometimes you have to be taken out of your element to grow up. I was getting too comfortable in the things I knew that in many ways it prevented my own growth. Hence the revelations God presented me; so in that sense, the trip was for my growth indeed. I took a lot from Ghana, to help better me. Each day of my life I try and give of my self to others. Advice, mentoring, guidance, money etc. that now I needed something for me and experience that gave me the opportunity to ask real questions about what I believe, who I care about and where I plan to go in life.

Indeed I also gave a lot of myself to Ghana. To help improve where I could, do what I could and learn what I could. Another real definition of diplomacy is like putting together a puzzle. You take each piece place them side by side until you get a bigger picture that allows you to get a glimpse at how others live and learn. That was Ghana for me. It was a time for spiritual growth and mental growth, things I could not have gotten here. It just so happens that God placed this time in my life at the time I was going to Ghana. He used Ghana as a conduit to help me understand more things about myself, and consequently my world.

When I think of where my life is going and where I stand on things I think about the relationship that I have with my fraternity brothers. The definite love we each have for each other. The loyalty we confirm through our actions, and the trust we have in the house-- all symbolize something greater.

I think of my relationships within BSP. Our ups and downs help define who we are. We were brought together by God and held together by love. The only thing stronger than our influence is our bond.

I think of the Cobb family. How they epitomize for me the level of understanding it takes to bear great fruit and sustain a great family. Their strong love for each other and willingness to go above and beyond to protect their unity goes unparalleled. This reminds me of the strong Ghanaian family unit. Touched by God's grace.

I think of the Johnson family and my cousin Jojo who serves his country with pride and due diligence but brings that same level of pride and sophistication when he is serving his family. Despite the hardships he has seen and bear he keeps moving forward and holding our family together.

I think of my aunt Betty. The eldest of my grandmother's kids with a heart heavy with love. She takes care of her husband who is dealing with many life altering illnesses, while also taking care of her mother who is faced with old age and severe dementia. Her strength to keep going reminds me of the women in the villages who despite having very little remain the glue that binds the communal spirit of those that dwell within.

I think of my father who is the hardest working man I know. He has taught me more about manhood than I think he realizes. His tenacity and simple understanding that someone must bear the hard work, makes him a clear sign that God's work is powerful. He has been a firm stance, for me that life's problems must we deal...so that in the same instance life's glories we can feel. He reminds me of the men in Ghana who toil day in and day out to see that their kids have a better life.

I think of my grandmother, Beulah Davis. Her strength is enough to move mountains. Her wisdom enough to fill libraries. Her love enough to overcome any evil. Despite her age and now trying times with dementia, she still shows us how to love. She is the elder, the queen mother and the reason I stand firm today on who I am. She taught me that if you work hard enough and remain vigilant, anything is possible. She helps me everyday to remember that we are simply passing by this place headed for something greater. She reminds me of the Queen mother elders. They can sit back and look at how their posterity is abundant.

I think of my God. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"- nuff said.

Ghana will be ok. Africa will be ok. When your steps have been ordered in such a way that God has something for you...it shall be revealed. pray for me, pray for Ghana, and pray for mankind. Thank you to all of those who have been following my journey. I will continue to pray that you get something from this blog just as I have gotten.

Life is a beautiful orchard of fruit. As you walk, what fruit will you pick?

God bless you all!

Monday August 17, 2009: A Day Away

2009-08-17T01:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes having patience is a good thing. I could learn and have learned to be more patient with myself. This past weekend was relaxing, but not by choice. On Friday evening me and Kukua hung out. We ate and I taught her some steps. She was excited to learn some stepping. She wants to take them back and teach the kids at the church. After she left I laid down and began feeling wheezy. I had eaten some fufu earlier, not my favorite dish, and I figured it was something in there that made me feel bad. Around three am, I woke up in a cold sweat and ran to the restroom. After what was one attempt at throwing up, I fell back against the bathroom wall feeling dizzy and light headed. I laid down on the floor and placed my feet above my head. I felt a quick cooling sensation, I had never felt. I really thought I had come down with something terrible. After sometime I began to feel better but had a light headache.

The next day I had enough energy to go to Abrui Gardens with a friend. It was a botanical gardens about 30 min drive away from Accra. We took some food, wine, board games, and snacks and ate on the grounds. It was a small pic nic. very relaxing and we all had time to just chill and recap on the experiences. On the way back I started coming down with a fever. I thought it was Malaria. A fever onset by flu like symptoms. I rushed to the nearest pharmacy and got some anti malarial drugs. They are very strong. I took one and started feeling worse. Come to find out the pills was what was making me worse. I developed ab pain, kidney pain, and throat pain...all side effects listed on the side of the drug. Of course I stopped taking them immediately. I am still feeling those effects. I don't have Malaria, I don't think. If I would have just waited and been patient to see what was really wrong with me I could have avoided all the other pain that came. I guess, in a place with high Malaria outbreak you have no choice but to be over paranoid. I hope I am ok.

I will be back in the States tomorrow night. Much rest will be needed. But I will be glad to be home. I cannot wait to see family and friends.

I will put up a final post tomorrow.

Thursday August 13, 2009: Thursday the 13th

2009-08-13T01:32:00.000-07:00

Despite the title on this post, today has not been a bad day. I just could not think of anything catchy enough, I feel like I am all out of titles.

This weekend will be the last weekend before I head back to the USA. Some want to throw a party while others would like to do some smaller things. All for me? wow I have only known these people for a short period and yet they are willing to pull the best wine out. I guess I could learn a little from the manners and dispositions exuded here. America, we got a lot to learn about hospitality.

I have been spending the past couple of days inside just reading some of the books that I bought. I should be finished with that 700 page book tonight. Then I can get back to the other reading I started before I was given the larger book. I must say, I really enjoyed the State of Africa. It told the stories behind most if not all of the African nations and then had sections about many of the things that have happened in Africa since colonization. (Apartheid, Hutu and Tutsi wars, Congolese insurgency, Ethiopian famine, black hawk down etc.) Three movies to watch again are "The last king of Scotland, Hotel Rwanda, and Black Hawk Down" Three great movies that introduce people to some troubling but important events that happened in Africa. I know there is a good one on Apartheid right? Any suggestions?

When I get back to the US I can't wait to do the following things: Drink water from the tap, eat at Popeye's and Burger King, have fast reliable Internet, take the metro, go to Walmart, have ice, see my grandmother and family, eat fried pork chops and bacon!

Its the little things that you really miss when you are away. The ease of going to McDonald's and the convenience of wal-mart.

I also plan to rest and sleep past 9am, talk on the phone for free after 9, watch music videos on demand, and have my emails come to my phone. Oh what joy these things will bring.

But I will miss from Ghana- The very friendly people, the ability to have someone wash-iron-and cook for you, some great friends that I have met here, the pace, the weather, food, low prices, and spirit I have each day I wake up and realize that I am in Africa.

Let's see what today brings!!

Tuesday August 11, 2009: Another Day

2009-08-11T02:06:00.000-07:00

Today is just another day. I am not certain what will come of it but being in Ghana really makes this a mystery. Literally, the mood, the time, place and setting could change. The free flow nature of things really makes for great entertainment. I mean, there is no such thing as a dull moment.

Yesterday my barber got sacked (fired) from his job. I am not sure what he did but when I went to get my weekly cut and shape up he was not there. I asked the guys where he was and they hesitantly said he was sacked. I had been training him on better cutting techniques all summer, and just when he got the hang of cutting my hair he is gone. Someone told me in Ghana, that if you like something you should enjoy it then because tomorrow it may not be there. This person was mostly talking about things in the market, but who would have ever thought it would mean people. He was a cool guy and was overjoyed to see me spending so much on getting my hair cut. The new guy is a little off. The edge is just not quite right. I will wait until I get to the male spa this Friday and get another one. I won't risk his newness on my head. I normally cut my own hair, but since I could afford, quite regularly the cuts here, I said why not.

On Mondays Joel has the day off. They send a guy named Theo who wants to be in the America army so bad he can taste it. He says that he dreams about coming to America to join our military. I asked him why not the Ghana military and he turned his nose up and said they are corrupt. The corruption in Ghana is a quiet thing. People don't normally talk about it, they just deal with it. After talking a bit longer with Theo I found out that he wants to first go to college and major in political science, and then he will go to America. I also found out that he just graduated from high school, is 19 and sleeps 3 hours each day. He works from 6pm-6am and then he leaves and goes home to sleep for 3 hours and then he reads his Ghana history book and then goes and spends the rest of the day talking with his friends. I told him he should be more productive with his day. So we mapped out a plan for him each day. I have him using email, browsing the Internet, reading news headlines and everything. He will spend the next year absorbing information. He plans to go to college next fall.

I feel like I am really getting used to this place. I will miss the hospitality. Perhaps some of yall in America can invite me over for a free lunch or dinner. LOL. Well today is yet another at work, gonna spend some part of the day learning all about visas. I figure I should know more about them.

Monday August 10, 2009: Free Flow

2009-08-10T01:46:00.000-07:00

Ghana is the type of country where you would really have to work to get an ulcer. Despite the tough terrain, poor quality of water, the "foreign" factor and a few other things, living and working in Ghana is quite relaxing. People are nice, the food is good, the weather is nice, and things seem to be so much simpler. A guy could get used to enjoying the simple things in life. I know when I get back to the US just as soon as I get off the plane, life as I know it will go to gear "hectic". Things in the US are so rushed and things here, for what its worth are laid back...sometimes almost too laid back.

This past weekend was relaxing in that same right. I have been determined to get some summer reading done so that I am not only more culturally educated but more erudite. After work on Friday, I went to Ghana University in Legon and visited the book store. To my chagrin there was not much there in terms of casual reads. Most of the books there were books for classes and such not general read. I was surprised not to find certain books there. I thumbed through most of the fiction and non fiction and nothing seemed to strike me as a must read. I was rather disappointed, that is until I went to the back of the store and saw some nice ties for 8 cidi a piece. They were nice ties too. So what started as an adventure in buying more books and becoming more learned turned into me asking myself whether or not I had a shirt to go with this tie, and whether the shoes I had here went well with the ensemble.

I left the store with two ties and an irritating feeling that I had come all the way out here and found nothing to read. Good thing I had already went to the book store in the mall and gotten something to begin my late, but rewarding stretch to erudition.

I got home to find Sola-mae heating up the banku in Okra soup with the Guinea Fowl. I had gotten two Guinea fowl from the north. I had them smoked. I love banku, okra and guinea fowl...so it was a combination that really made my afternoon. The guinea fowl is so much more healthy than chicken. It is a small turkey/chicken like animal that is slightly gamy but delicious. In fact, it is so delicious that many of the tribes in the north fought over them. The war was called the Guinea Fowl war. It was a war over the guinea fowl and how someone killed a tribe's Guinea fowl. The war, which was quite interesting, actually ended on a more serious note than it began.

I digress...Back to my eating diatribe: I added some bread to this mixture to "sop" the remaining okra soup with and my slight irritation turned to a quaint smile of satisfaction. After dinner, I had no desire to nap, as the "itis" did not hit me so hard here since I was already moving at a slow pace. I began my reading. I began reading a book called A Squatters Tale. It is about a Nigerian boy once adorned with the finest suits, women, and loads of money who lost it all due to the economic crisis the world is facing and has been left with no other option than following his wild uncle to California to try and live a better life. What he finds in the US is not much different. The story defines character, truth, love, and greed all in one short story. I am quite entertained by the piece.

I am also reading Nelson Mandela's A long walk to freedom. Which illustrates, in his own writing, the issues surrounding apartheid in South Africa. It is a pretty decent balance from the fictional novel about the young boy. Although, I really don't know how fictional it is. Both books began my Friday afternoon well.

After reading for what seemed like 3 hours I grew restless and decided to meet up with some friends. I invited two friends over to eat the remaining bits of the Banku and Guinea Fowl. After we ate, we all played the Ghanaian game of CARDS. A catchy name right? Well it is similar to a mixture of tunk, for those who play that, spades and I declare war. The Ghanaians play it well. They even slam the cards down on the table like many of us do in Spades. The apple don't fall far from the tree does it?

We played cards and then afterwards they took me to an outside hang out spot. Apparently this spot was probably the most happening spot I have been to in Ghana. The music was blasting, the people were crowded around many tables and chairs and the servers were moving from table to table with a level of satisfaction I have never seen. The night began with a few people dancing to the latest Ghanaian and Nigerian hits, and then turned into a heavy dance hall with music from all genres.

After sitting there for a couple of hours I saw a crowd begin to form not far from where we were sitting. Sam, one of the guys I was with, told me that at a certain point this dance group comes and begins doing all kinds of crazy dance moves. I took his explanation as being no different than the dancing I saw already. Boy was I wrong. The guys were in tights and they were dancing and doing flips and eating fire, and eating glass. It was acrobatic stunts times ten plus the "African" factor. It was def. a show. They did stunts with ease, ate glass from people's tables after breaking the beer bottles, and rubbed fire all over their body. It was nothing that I had seen before. I prepped myself to see some really crazy miracles like people turning into snakes and stuff, which actually happens here, but that did not happen. We ended the evening taking one of the guys home. He drank way too much.

That next day I woke up and watched some Ghanaian movies that I had bought. "Scorned" and "Perfect Picture". Both of which had some of the same Ghanaian actors. The films here are interesting. They seem a bit more realistic than ones in the states. I mean, I actually felt like some of these things happen regularly. The films over here are low budget to our American standards, but seem a bit less sensationalized. They are good but it is interesting to see some of the places they go to in the movie and know that I was just there, it is also equally as interesting to hear the birds squawking in the background just outside the spot where they are shooting the film. I bet it is that same bird that wakes me up every morning. It sounds like a bad cough compounded with a flem type gargle. Yeah it's a bit much.

I find myself getting up early, even on the weekends and actually feeling ok about it. After I finished my bed and movies experience I showered and went to meet my friend's parents. My friend Kwabena's mother works here at the embassy and she invited me over for lunch on Saturday. I arrived at their house awe struck by the wealth, artistic design and elegance. Not that I did not expect it, but it was still great to see this really unique style of living. The bucknor's have class that I am trying to get. wow! We had rice balls with Guinea fowl in ground nut soup. This was the best food I had since being in Ghana. I mean, I could have wrapped the stuff up and ate it again even though hunger was no longer an issue. We had some great conversation and I took away some interesting things about Ghana and some more literature.

I left thinking wow, this could really be me in a few years. On the way home I stopped to get a Ghanaian newspaper called the Chronicle, low and behold who do you think is in one of the stories on page 6? Me! They did a small write up on the commissioning we did in the north. It was cool. I kept a copy.

After lunch I headed to the embassy to do some Internet work...emails and face book mainly until I went to an all male bible study group. It was interesting to see how many of the Ghanaian men hold bible study. I learned a great deal and I also realized that much of the Ghanaian cultural tendencies don't go away, even in the midst of God. LOL. They argued there too. But it was all healthy conversation. I left feeling more spiritually energized.

I ended the evening doing more reading.

The next morning I attended church. For some reason I felt a bit more empowered and showy so I wore a bow tie. I wore a black shirt with a gold bow tie. Besides it being very Alpha like of me, I for some reason wanted to feel impressive. I don't know where it came from and why I wanted to go like this to church but I did. In Ghana, you do things as you will. The Ghanaian way..everyday. LOL. Church was quite good and the message was very clear. I had been thinking about God's perfect will vs. God's permissive will for my life. I have been battling with really seeing what God has allowed me to do vs. what he has planned for me to do. Since being in Ghana I have realized more of what God's perfect will is for me. I embrace it more now. Church, this past Sunday, really helped me solidify what God had been telling me all along. He made it very clear in church. Now, the test is, acting on that realization. Faith without works is dead.

After church I went over to a friends house for brunch. Thanks Karis for a wonderful time and conversation. The brunch was great and the conversation was even better. After being here for only 9 weeks now I have been able to articulate, rather clearly and convincingly, the issues of Ghana and Africa. Her father, who is a retired professor of English and literature recommended some books. One was called The State of Africa. It was a 700 page book he lent me and told me to read it by next Sunday so I could return it to him. wow, 700 pages in a week, with work and fun in Ghana? It's tough but I am up for the challenge. In my eagerness to get the book done, I read 150 pages last night. At my pace, I should get it done. I would love to have some further conversation about it when I am done. The book really provides a historical analysis of Africa and how the countries evolved and fought for independence. It really paints a vivid picture of Africa. One cannot truly understand contemporary African politics and culture without reading this book.

After my reading tirade I ate, watched some movies on tv and talked about the Ghana experience with a colleague. Sometimes its good to talk about Ghana with a non Ghaniain. You find things are a bit more frank. Debriefing is good.

Well enough with my long narration of my weekend. Believe me, it was more relaxing than I make it seem in the post. This is my last week of work. wish me luck everyone....evaluation time is coming.

peace out.

August 7 2009: Slowly but surely

2009-08-07T01:21:00.000-07:00

Slowly but surely I am becoming more and more like a Ghanaian. I find myself clasping my hands when I talk to make a point, I am more direct when it comes to things that I would like, and I am really beginning to understand what it means to live and exist in this economy. My initial "wow" has now turned into a quest to find a deeper meaning, a more profound idea and a better understanding to compound some of the experiences that I have been having. It is no coincidence that I am here in Ghana at this moment. It is beyond a serendipitous occurrence that I am meeting the people that I am meeting. This experience has been like a coming of age theme in a book. I am the main character Kwaku, and I have come home. When at first I am wowed by the new way of life I see, I have begun to understand more of why I am here.

A friend asked me not too long ago why Ghana. When I was at Cornell I used to attend the Ghanaian student banquet each year. Many could not understand my connection. I have not traced my family lineage back to Ghana, I don't have any family members that are, I am not married to one or anything. There is this profound attraction that I have to Ghana. It has always been an interesting curiosity. Nothing I dwell over, but it certainly is stark enough for people to see it. I suppose in someway I showed favoritism to Ghana. I grapple with that question all of the time and have still yet to find a clear answer. I chalk it up to the idea that God does things for a reason. Sometimes we don't quite understand what he is doing. This is where that F word comes in. No..not the bad one but the one that kept Job alive and ultimately made him rich, and the thing that has kept me going strong each and every day..its called Faith. Perhaps by the time I finish my time in Ghana I will have a better understanding of why Ghana..until then, lets ride the faith wave until something comes my way.

I plan to stay in and relax this weekend. I don't plan to do much. I bought some books written by African authors and so I plan to get through them this weekend. I have also been invited to a friends house to have lunch on Saturday. Kwabena Bucknor's (Cornell '07) mother actually works in the embassy. She has invited me over to their house for dinner.

Other than that, things have been pretty simple around Ghana. After this weekend I have one more weekend left. I will end with a bang.

See yall on Monday.

Thursday August 6, 2009: Hustle and Bustle

2009-08-06T01:23:00.000-07:00

Just so you all are clear, I did not take the child. Would one of you have raised it? When the guy called I got on the phone with him and told him that there must have been a communication misunderstanding and that I would not be taking the child because under government regulation I could not do that. In a very interesting way, that would fall under trafficking in persons. This would mean me breaking the law in both Ghana and the U.S. Thanks for the gesture but sorry I will not be taking the child. He took it ok I guess because he heard me and we ended the call and I have not gotten a call that some man is here at the embassy with a child. So all things are ok.

For the past couple of days I have been out of the office attending conferences. Many conferences are going on here in Accra. There is one for the study of Africans in the diaspora. A few Cornell folk have come in town for that one. There is a small one on AGOA, which is supporting the larger one in Nairobi this week, and there is one on AIDS and HIV and another on Intellectual Property. I have been trying to get to all of them to really expand my knowledge on what is going on here in Ghana. The AIDS and HIV workshop was amazing. It was chaired by a physician here in Accra working with the Ghana AIDS commission. All I have to say is please be sure you are getting yourself checked regularly.

It has been an interesting week in that it seems like it has been longer than most. I plan to go out tonight to dinner and a movie. Kukua and I will be going to see the new Jack Black movie. See America, you can go to the movies in Africa. A big movie screen. LOL. This should help beat the many misconceptions that people have about Africa.

I also plan to volunteer this weekend at a Children's home. You can actually go in and hold babies that are never held because they have no parents. I love to do service no matter where I go. It really helps you see the community and understand the way of life. This is a lot of what diplomacy is. It is not about simply reading the newspapers, or sitting in an office. It is about getting out there, seeing the issues, talking to people and asking questions. It makes for a better understanding of how we can help Ghana help itself, not just help Ghana. For too long now people have been taught, in developing countries, to hold their hands out and get something, as opposed to working within the system they have to bring relief, support and leadership. The whole "teach a man to fish thing". We have to assist and not direct. Most of my work has been finding out the facts and assisting. Most of my personal work and growth has stemmed from this very same notion.

For example, I want to help the tour guides in the cape coast area improve their English. When taking the tours of the slave castles, it is very hard to understand them. They have heavy accents and it makes the tour less enjoyable. I plan to send them some material that would help them. In addition, I have inspired someone who will be here to set up a toast masters club in the area. That way, they can really work on improving their English. They can take control over working the club, and helping themselves in speaking better; especially since more Americans visit these sites than anyone.

We will see how it goes. The hustle and bustle keeps me going everyday. Each day brings with it something new and exciting. Time is winding down. I have one more full work week in Ghana.

cheers

August 4, 2009: Funny Things Happen

2009-08-04T01:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes things happen that make you laugh. Having a good laugh in the morning can really make the day go well. Try it. Wake up and read something that makes you laugh and see how much different your day goes.

I have been having a few rough days. Internally I have not felt good and I have developed a small sore inside my mouth that pains me when I eat anything! I got it from eating so much of the hot spices here. The spices burned the inside of my mouth and left a small ulcer like sore. I had to pay 12 cidi for some orajel! WOW talk about expensive. But with pain like this I did not mind. I have not been able to enjoy eating and talking for the past few days..two things yall know I love to do.

Here are some funny things that may help you begin your day well.

1. My friend Keziah sent me a wonderful care package. She put in underwear, socks, gushers (my fav.), sour patch kids, deodorant, ramen noodles, pepto bismal, anit diarrhea medicine, anti itch medicine, little debbie cakes, and a bunch of other stuff that made me smile. So I decided to share a pack or two of the ramen noodles with Joel. I gave them to Joel before I went to bed for the evening. On the outside of the package it says Chicken. So he got the chicken flavored one. The next morning sola Mae asked me why I had given Joel some old chicken. I said I did not give him any old chicken I gave him some noodles. She said oh...well Joel took a bite out of the noodles and spit them out thinking that it was a biscuit with chicken in it. FML

2. So when we were traveling on the trip to the western region we went to a very small village. This village had about 100 people in it max. They lived off of farming coco, plantains and yams. We arrived there and met the queen mother who greeted us with open arms. They did not speak English or Twi but Sechwe. You know how sometimes you say yes even when you do not understand what you are being asked. You say yes partly because you want to make it seem like you know what is going on. Well...that came back to haunt me. Just yesterday we got a call from one of the city councilmen letting me know that he was almost in Accra to meet me..Justin. Mind you, Accra is about a 7 hour drive from the nearest city they are located near. When asked why he was coming to meet me he said he was bringing the child that I said I would take. Apparently, in my saying yes I confirmed that I would adopt one of the children and take him back to America with me to raise him as my son. FML

3. Peeing on the side of the road is very common in Ghana. People just stop whip it out and let it run. Men and women do this. In my opinion it is very disgusting and contributes to Ghana's problem with sanitation. In my opinion, Ghana's number one problem is sanitation. If they improve sanitation they can really move to help prevent disease and sickness due to major health problems. Well anyway, one evening at around dusk I was walking back home. I decided to walk because there was a lot of traffic and I did not want to sit in traffic for an hour to go 10 min down the road. The walk was about 20 min and so I began my trek with every intention of making it home so that I could use the rest room. Finally I gave up, I could not hold the pee in any more, I had to go. I think the juice I drank earlier was heavy concentrated and overworked my kidneys. Anyway, because humans are contradicting I decided to stop and pee on the side of the road like most Ghanaian men would do. I walked just off the main road, I whipped it out and began to pee. Moments later another man comes up beside me whips his out looks at mine and says "nice penis". I won't pee in public again. FML

I hope that this makes your day a lot better. Sometimes a good laugh can really go far. These stories are real and are about real people. Please folks, do not try these at home.

I am off to a day of learning about AIDS and Malaria in Africa. until next time...please find a bathroom.

Monday August 3, 2009: Familiar Faces

2009-08-03T02:09:00.000-07:00

Another day another week to begin in the office. It is crazy how much people do the same things over and over each week. I could not get into that. I mean, humans are creatures of habit yet, sometimes I feel like we use that as an excuse to always do the same things over and over again. I try and spice my life up with creativity all the time. It really keeps things interesting. I really enjoy what I am doing. There is really always something different every single day. The question becomes are you ready for what you see and experience?

This past weekend was chill. I needed the rest but I always wanted to spend less money and just do what I wanted to do. On Friday, I got off work and actually went to this male spa they have in Ghana. What an amazing place. I have never gone to an all male spa before. I went and got a manicure, pedicure, facial and a trim up. All for like 50 USD. I could have even gotten a 1 hour full body message but I did not have time. Maybe next time. The women working in the spa are great too. They really made the experience a lot less scary. It gets packed. All kinds of men come in and get manicures and pedicures. For a long time I thought those things were only for women. But the men over here get them all of the time.

After I left this male spa feeling all brand new I met up with a friend and went to the Accra trade fair. It was very similar to the flea market in the states where they had all of the local vendors selling items. It got just a few things. After that we all came back to the house and played "cards". That is the name of the Ghanaian game. It is called cards. Everyone plays it and for some it really gets heated.

Saturday morning I wok up rather early. During my trip, I had been waking up very early to begin the day so I was still used to getting up early. I woke up and went and met a good friend from Cornell. There is a conference going on in Accra and Ira Revels, and Dr. Washington came to Accra for this conference. Both of them work at Cornell when I was there. I met with them at the hotel and served as their official tour guide for the day. I took them to a chop bar, and to the cultural center where I was able to use my Twi speaking ability to bargain some great deals for them for some items they wanted to buy. I had a great time. I really felt like I knew what I was doing. And to think, I have only been here for 8 weeks and now I am showing other people around. The guys at the culture center know me by name and face now. They love it when I come, because I bring people to them. In turn, I get some really good deals. Sometimes though they try and get me, but I have gotten really hip the the bargaining game. I can even bargain better than some Ghanaians. Some of the call me worse. LOL

After that, I dropped them all off at the hotel and went to a going away gathering for a colleague at work. It was good food and a chill time. Afterwards, I went and had dinner with two people that I would have never guessed would be in Ghana while I was here. Dean Lisa, the former Dean of the college of human ecology and her husband. She was such a great friend while she was at Cornell. She is now the provost of temple university. And her husband is the dean of research for the temple med school. They are here in Ghana doing some work with a med school that is about to open. They are among the pioneers helping to open the med school in Kumasi. We had dinner and we had a blast. There was so much to talk about and just not enough time to talk about it all. Thanks to them for such a wonderful evening. it is times like that that I am really able to appreciate knowing good people. I was so good to their their familiar face while I was here in Ghana. I needed that.

I ended the night having wings at this place not too far from my house. I loved the wings. Great place to eat and have drinks. Honey Suckle is the name of the place. If you are in Accra, check it out. You just have to get over the smoke from the smoking.

Church was wonderful yesterday. the pastor talked about prosperity and success. What does it mean to be successful? How was Jesus successful. I really needed that lessen. He talked about how sometimes we get caught up on the carnal mindedness of success that we forget that knowing God is the true success. After Church, Kojo and Kukua and I made dinner, I taught them how to step, and we just hung out. I had a blast. Thanks for that time spent. Don't worry Kukua, I will get your fritos. She is in love with Fritos and has asked that I send her a box once a month from the states. LOL

Well today I am back in here for another week! Lets see what happens.

Friday July 31, 2009: I need rest!

2009-07-31T01:51:00.000-07:00

After a long trip I need some rest. I need to lay out somewhere and do nothing for a whole day. My eyes are sagging as I type because they are so heavy. Thank God it is Friday. I see what people mean now when they say it. That term means so much more to me now than it ever has.

What next Ghana? Will you leave me be or is there more adventure around the corner. I feel like it is an on going experience. Who knew I would be getting so much out of this experience.

I need a laxative, a nice bathroom, some rest, and some good oldies to relax my body, mind and bowels. LOL TMI huh? Yeah I know.

This weekend should be relaxed sort of. I plan to go to the Accra Trade fair today to check it out. I hear they have some great things there for people to see. I don't plan on buying much, but the experience should be worthwhile. Tomorrow afternoon I plan on sleeping and chilling out. A colleague at work is having a going away party so I plan to go to that.

Last night was cool. I hung out with a Cornellian who lives in Accra. We went to this place called purple pub. They have some pretty good food and very cheap drinks. They were telling me that one shot of something was 30 peswas. That is so cheap that it is actually dangerous... three shots for 90 peswas. Are you kidding? If that were the case in America, people would die of Alcohol poisoning.

Other than that the past day or so has been chill. Not too much to report today. Let's see what the weekend brings.

Tuesday July 28, 2009: Stark Realities

2009-07-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

The stark reality is that you teach people how to treat you. The moment you step outside of your house you tell people "this is how you should treat me" by what you wear, how you talk and your personal mannerisms. People meet you or they see you and then they walk away with a perception of who you are, or in some cases a real sense as to who you are.

Does one really know who they are? Can you sum up in just a few words who you are and what you stand for, given that each moment of each day brings with it something different and that different moment calls for a different you. It is tough to get a feel for who you really are.

Since I have been in Ghana I have really been teaching people how to treat me. The fact that I am much lighter than everyone else really makes this more of the case. I am light and they are dark. When I go out I get looks, double takes and everything. At first the attention was kinda flattering but always being seen as different even when you are doing all that you can to fit it really becomes rather disconcerting. When I go and try to buy something I get a much higher price, when I walk down the street people stop and look. And even when I am speaking the language I get a laugh first and then they think its cute.

On the other hand, I am lighter, I can actually pay more than the average Ghanaian for items and no one would ever expect me to speak the language, so what really is so disconcerting about the truth? I guess it is because I feel like sense I am an African American I would generally fit in more. I have found that this would be the case if I were a little darker. For one split second today I actually wished I were darker. I don't say this because it is a taboo thing or a desired commodity, but because I actually would not mind seeing how things would change if I were a darker American in Ghana. Would I get away with things a bit more? Would the starring stop? I dunno its hard to say, because when I open my mouth, they would tell.

Have you ever wished you were darker? I know some people have the "I wish I was lighter complex" but not so much the other way around.

On the other hand of all of that, I find myself becoming more and more Ghanaian every day. I take my time a bit more, I don't get bent out of shape for things I cannot control, I have the urge to argue with people a bit more, and I actually have now began starring at White people in Ghana. Yes folks, I am contributing to the weird stares that white people get in Ghana. I know it sounds funny but I caught myself starring at some Canadians that were walking along side the road. I actually said to myself, " what are you doing? " " Why are you starring?" I know it sounds funny but when you stay in an environment for so long you really begin to take on some of the mannerisms.

The other thing is that I have actually wanted to argue with people a bit more. Ghanaians love to argue. Oh My do they love keeping up some mess even when it is most unnecessary. For instance, I was in a tro tro. The guy in the back said something about a young woman on the street who had a child in her hands. Another guy in the back of the tro tro chastised the guy saying why would he even care. So those guys got into it. Meanwhile, another guy in the front started arguing with the second guy for poking his nose into the first guys business asking why was it any of his business what the guy said. Then the bus driver got into it with the two guys and said he would put them off. Instantly, they both turned on the driver saying that he was being foul. Then the tro tro mate (the guy who collects the money) gets into it with the two guys. All of a sudden a lady tells the guys to relax and they start on her. Whew! yeah it was that much in just one argument over one guy saying something like, why is she carrying her child like that. I mean it was frivolous at its core, yet it was still a very real argument.

Another example is when I went to the soccer game. A group of guys go down to the gate to the field and begin arguing with the security guy at the gate asking why they could not get by. He told them they had no business on the field, and they insulted him. That went on for 10 min and then a new group of guys came down and did that same thing. By the end, about four groups of guys had been arguing with that one guy. And at one point the guy let one of the guys in the group in and then the ones who did not get in began insulting the guard even more. And when the guy got past the gate, he paid no mind to his friends who did not get in. LOL. So funny. But you know, sometimes I see the same trait in us African Americans. We are a bit aggressive when it comes to many things. But hey, you gotta be tough or you will get got easily. Especially in Ghana.

Another stark reality is how the police take money from people. Bribes are heavy when traveling. The police will actually create a road block and stop each car passing by to check for their materials. The driver will also hand the guy 1 cidi to let him by. Or else the cop would keep the guy a long time and put him through unnecessary trouble because he did not give him the small small that he had been looking for. They cannot stop a diplomatic car but yet even when we pull up behind another car they will ask us to go around and still take small small from the driver. The reality is that police don't get paid enough in Ghana. Come to think of it most people don't get paid well. The waiter at the restaurant in Tamale told me about his life. He said that he gets 40 Ghana Cidi a month. He lives with his grandmother and his little brother in town, who do not work. His 40 cidi a month has to pay rent, water, electricity, school fees, and food for the house. The rent et al is 20 and then the school fees are like 4 and then food is like another 10-15. So how much does this guy really have left at the end of the day. And we thought living pay check to pay check at home was so bad. I mean it is, but comparatively not at all. To stay at the hotel a night costs about 90 Ghana Cidis. Just over two months worth of pay for him, just to stay in the hotel 1 night. The reality is tough to bear, but people live off one 2 cidi a day.

Those are just a few stark realities that I have been on my mind lately. I am headed back to Accra and will be back in the office on Thursday. What a great trip. I actually got a smock ( a traditional garb worn predominately in the north). I don't know when I would wear it but we will see, its kinda something nice to have laying around for when an opportunity arises.

Stay tuned for more is always to come.....

Monday July 27, 2009: The commission

2009-07-27T10:32:00.000-07:00

So I am ending my day in Tamale with Hamid. Hamid is a young man that I met while sitting in the computer lab showing another Ghanaian guy Muksin, how to send emails. The computer labs are interspersed around the city and many Ghanaians take advantage of the world wide web. Just when I thought that limited technology prevailed the countryside I found that this was not the case. Many of the youth are just as hip to American lifestyle as we are. In fact, Hamid scours the Internet and looks at pictures of Washington, DC. He enjoys looking at the city layout. You would be surprised as how much information is taken in within the boundaries of this developing African nation.

Today was a great ending of my ten day trip. The self help program commissioned a sheanut grinding mill in a local village about 45 min outside of Tamale. Kurga Fong is the name of the small town. You get there by traveling a long dirt road, laden with men and women walking and riding bikes back and forth into town. When it rains it makes it very hard to travel to the village, as the road washes away. Infrastructure is a big problem in Ghana. With limited means to transport people to and from the town, get medical assistance and taking building supplies it makes it very challenging for the people of Ghana to live well. Yet, they still do and they do it joyfully. God makes away for his people. Despite how I may view their limitations.

We arrive to the village about 30 min late. It was not a problem because we actually did no begin until an hour and a half later. We had to wait on the local assemblymen, the chief, and the men, women and children in the town to assemble. We had to commission the grinding mill so that they village could begin to use it. The mill, will facilitate the grinding of sheanuts so that the women can sell it and bring revenue to the village. Food is particularly not in need in most communities, as they supply themselves with plenty, what is needed however is vocational training, sanitation, and ways to bring money into the village so that the people can buy medicine, meat, and travel back and forth to town. Even school fees have to be paid.

We arrived to a village that just mourned the death of one of the men yesterday. But still they welcomed us with open arms to help them celebrate the finished product. We sat down and patiently waited for the chief to arrive with his men. We greeted the women who sat on one side and the men who sat on the other. Aside from intercourse the men and women in the small Muslim villages do not interact regularly. Many of the women, in a sign of respect give the men their space to do what is needed to govern the village. This village was typical in the sense that the chief had many wives. He had 7 wives and 15 children all from the many wives he had. The chief must have been in his late 40 or 50's yet still bore children as if he was a young stud. It was interesting to see how the chief commanded such attention and such respect. As I marveled in the level of respect that the people gave him I noticed that the children paid him no mind. I don't think they got it yet.

When the chief arrived we stood in respect and bowed down to him. He wished us good afternoon in the local language called Dagbani. He said "Antire" and we replied "Nnaa". After we did this he clapped and we got up and took our seats. We began the program with a prayer. After that the elders spoke and thanked us for coming. Then it was my turn to speak. I had written a speech that centered around what President Obama told to Ghana, Africa and the world. "The future of Africa is in the hands of Africans" This timely prose could not have come at a better time. The people of Africa must take matters in their own hands. How can we as Americans come into Africa and tell them how to run their country? It puzzles me how much we think we know about governance. This is why the project assists the community to fulfill its own needs, we do not lift a finger. We assist them in financing the projects. But the proposal must come from the community, no NGO, no government agency, they need a community task force. The Kurga Fong community did just that.

After I spoke they then went over to the mill and cut the tape to mark the grand opening of this mill. Before we cut the tape I talked about how symbolic this was for me as an American whose origins go back to Africa. This does my heart well. Just before the chief and I cut the tape, I challenged the Ghanaian people to continue to be resilient, to continue to be strong, and continue to believe in tradition. For it is with those tenants that Ghana can remain a strong democratic state, a strong traditional empire, and a place where people like me can call home.

After the tape cutting I gave the kids some color pencils that I brought from the States. They all rushed me as I handed them out. I had just enough to give one to each child. As I was handing the pencils out, one of the young boys jumped into my arms speaking dagbani. I, of course did not know what he was saying but he kept shaking his yes in the affirmative. He was probably about 2 years old and for some reason I just knew he was saying thank you in his own way. He knew that the wealth generated by the mill would trickle down to him and one day make it such that he would become educated, well informed and perhaps the next chief of the village.

As a going away gift the Chief gave us a live Goat. He offered the small goat as a token of appreciation for what we have HELPED the community to do. He wanted us to take the goat for breakfast and make soup out of it. What a gift.

After we left we came back to Tamale, the local town, ate, and shopped around the market. What a day and what an ending. The Ghanaian TV stations even came out to the commissioning, so for those in Ghana check me out, I may be on TV! Who would have thought that I would be on TV in another country speaking even before my own. Shows you how tough it is to penetrate the American airways.

Ghana...is gaining some good ground swell. The commission is in effect.

until next time...

JD

Saturday July 25, 2009: Giving to give

2009-07-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

I am still in shock of being given land and chiefdom of a small village. It has really not dawned upon me how important something like this is. What an amazing trip this has been. What is next in my life? Who is next in my life? Question that only God can answer.

Dear God,

Today has been a blessing. A blessing in a sense that you have allowed me to give of my resources to your people, my people. Times are very hard here and yet in some way you make a way for these people. Your love is ever plentiful. It's all most tangible. I can see how you manifest in the lives of so many who need your help. Thank you for all of your love, kindness and support thus far. I pray that you continue to teach me and show me things that will change my life and use me to change the lives of others. How can I repay you? I can't. I exist for you.

love,

Justin

--I had to write a short note to God. It's really unbelievable how he moves over here. I feel like I have never been so close to God. Yesterday I needed to check my email. I am in a new town and a new place and it is tough to find my way around so fast. So I asked a young boy to point me to where it was. He stopped what he was doing and walked me all the way there, sat with me and walked with me back to the hotel. It was dark and he was worried about my safety so he walked with me.

After we returned, I asked him if he was hungry. He said yes and I invited him to join me for dinner in the hotel restaurant. He declined saying he was not allowed in there. I asked why and he said that he was too poor. I begged him to differ and persuaded him to join me. In the midst of his severe shyness he sat down and joined me. During dinner he told me more about the way and life of the northern Ghanaian people. He did not speak twi, he only spoke Dagbani and English. He ate like he had never eaten before. After dinner he said God bless you. I told him he is more than welcomed to come back tomorrow and I would feed him again. He said that this is the 3rd time in his life that he has eaten meat. I gave him chicken and rice. He said he might come back. Today when I asked the guard who he was, he told me that that was the first time anyone had seen him and that he was not a worker at the hotel. He has no idea where he came from. Who knows perhaps he was an angel.

Today I went and got a haircut. After I finished the guy said it would be 1 cidi. That's much cheaper than ever. I only had a ten and he did not have any change. I told him to cut the head of every young boy that comes into the shop until the money is done. I pray he upholds his part of the deal.

Today we went out to a small village where they build huts. We went to go and check on a project. We were giving them money to build teachers quarters. The distance for the teachers to travel was too far, so having quarters would be good so that they can stay there in the village and teach. After we wrapped things up, two women asked if they could ride with us back to the distant town. We had no problem at all. It would have taken the women 3 hours to walk when it took us 35 min to drive. Even though they do it often, I pray this helped them expedite their tasks.

Giving never felt so good. I mean 20 cidi can change someones life here instantly. But of course helping the community take ownership in their progression will go much further.

Lesson learned: God will always make a way.

Give someone something today. Someone who is least expecting it. Pay for someones gas, buy someones groceries, or send someone a gift they need. You would be surprised how when blessings are given out...well you know the rest...

until later

Thursday July 23, 2009: A Time to Remember

2009-07-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

So I have just completed my first couple of days traveling around Ghana. By the time I am finished with this I will have seen all of Ghana and really, truly be able to say that I am Ghanaian.

After leaving Takoradi, the capital city of the western region, we trekked up far north west to the Sehwe tribes. We traveled there to check out some sites for the self help program. After traveling for 7 hours on a partial dirt partial paved road and then two hours on a very dirt road up to a small small tribe we arrived sleepy eyed, not the driver, to the small village. The guy who took us there met us in the local town about 30 min away. When we arrived I was met by many men and women who thought at first I was president Obama but then I told them no, but I am Obibini Oboruni - African American and me ye adwuma wo American Embassy, I work at the American embassy and me fi America. I am from America. Many of the kids stood back and watched my every move in amazement. My arrival was the talk of the town. The Ghanaian woman and the Ghanaian driver were not even looked at, all eyes were on me. They were requesting money from the embassy for them to build a school for the kids in the town. As of now, they are schooling in a small shack like building with a fallen in roof.

I approached the men first and they greeted me. They then took me to the site where I could meet some of the teachers and the kids. Big smiles came from all of the kids who saw me there. Keep in mind, this village was very small and very rural. In fact to get there we had to travel a dirt road filled with water and covered by leaves.

After we left the site where the new school would be they then wanted to me to meet the Queen mother. The wife of the village chief. The chief was not around that day. She greeted me and asked me to sit. They then invited all of the village councilmen and elders to come and sit with me. When the queen mother arrived and sat we all sat down. They asked me in the language which was not Twi, what was the purpose of my visit. I told them we had come to see how progress was for the school we had given them money for. So far they had built one of the rooms for the school. As you can imagine, a project even that small would take months or maybe years to develop.

They all sat quietly as I stumbled through speaking Twi to them. They could understand Twi even though this was not the language that they spoke. They sat in immediate silence and watched my every move. Finally I began to speak English and the guy who took us there interpreted in the local language. They kept comparing me to Barack Obama. How did this village know about Barack Obama? Beats me, but they all know about him and what he does in America.

After I told them what I had come to tell them they desired to pray that I travel safe. After we left the woman, Jennifer that was with me told me that they prayed to a god called Kwame. They practiced a traditional religion. She even said, to them, some really pale whites would have been considered a deity.

This town was big in farming cocoa. So I asked to see one and they got one for me and cut it open. I was able to taste the insides. It is better than candy! I did not eat the seeds but I took the sweetness from the seed before they dried out. When I got back to the car there were nearly 50 plantains for us. It was a gift for me and the group. We took them politely and left the smiling children who waved goodbye. Yebehyia bio...I will see you all again.

We left there and headed to Kumasi. The Asante region.

We arrived in Kumasi and had fufu at Jennifer's friends house. She has been feeding us now for three days. She is so happy to have us. I have been able to eat fufu, banku and I even had my hand at making the banku. It takes a lot of strength.

The highlight of the trip so far was my visit to Atrima Boko. A small village just outside of Kumasi about 20 min. We were going there to see how the progress of a small bathroom site had been going. We gave them money to build a bathroom site in the village so that the men and women would have a place to use the restroom. When I arrived we were greeted by the chief of the village. He was, at the time, dressed in regular clothing, so I did not know he was the chief until we went to his house and sat down. Again they invited all of the village elders to sit with us.

They invited me to pour libations and have snapps with them but Jennifer kindly refused saying we were at work and did not drink during work hours. The chief heard me speaking Twi so he said that we should do the entire session in Twi. So he began to talk and Jennifer helped me to translate. In Asante culture you do not normally talk directly to the chief you have to talk through a linguist who then repeats everything you say back to the chief in a better more beautiful twi. The interpreter was a 7ft tall muscular guy who towered over everyone standing near him. I would say something or Jennifer would say something and he would stand and repeat it back to the Chief. The the chief would say something and then the interpreter or would repeat it back to us, even though the chief heard everything the first time. The Asantes believe deeply in tradition.

After we handled business the chief stood up and commissioned me to be Nana Kwaku Appiah. Nana is a title they give chiefs and Appiah means intelligent one or enlightened one. I am now Nana Kawku Appiah. He had made me a progressive chief of the village. In two months time when we come back to commission the new site he will give me chief's garb, sandels and make me a real chief!!! Can you believe it? Wow..the last thing I need is for someone to be calling me chief. My head is already big enough. I will be back in the States in two months so he said I could have someone stand in for me. The interesting thing is this, the chief told me that I am welcome back anytime to come and stay, the village will respect me as an honorary chief and that eventually I would have some land portioned to me to build a house. He even went as far as saying that if I did not have a wife when I came back he would find one in the village for me. LOL. I politely declined the last offer. Then Jennifer, on my behalf, accepted all offerings and later told me that even if you don't want it, you must accept the chief's gifts.

So I guess I will have a wife in Atrima Boko. LOL. My job as a progressive chief, and the Ghanaians who read this can help me to give the correct title of what I am, my job would be to bring what progress I can to the village. I plan to send back school supplies and books for the kids. Please, everyone help me to raise this to send back to them. Anything you donate will be appreciated.

Wow I am a chief, this is moving. So much so that I shed a tear for the first time on the trip. The chief told me that there was no need to trace my lineage and that it really came from this village. He said God called me home and it was my duty to be here.

It was tough to leave the people. Never have I been so honored for such little work. This has to have been the single most memorable moment of the trip. I wish I could be here for the actual ceremony where I am honored. This means a lot to me.

After we left the village we came home and rested for the rest of the day. The next day we visited some other villages in the Asante region. Some in the mountains and some by a natural lake in the Asante region. I cannot remember the name but it is translated as the praised antelope or something. The village was surrounded by a natural lake caused by a meteorite that hit the area long ago. I watched the men fishing in the lake. We bought some fresh fish. So when we asked for it, the elder called the men and they came rowing the boats in with baskets of fresh fish to sell us. We bought 30 cidi worth of fish, which was a whole lot! The kids had just gotten out of school so they were there to help descale (sp) and de-bile the fish. After, they asked us to send them books to read. It makes me feel good to know that some kids ask for books instead of money. After we went back to the car we noticed that it had been washed. The small boy about 7 years old washed the car for us. It was shining. It took them just a few minutes. After wards we gave them 1 cidi which was more than enough for them.

My heart is heavy world. It has only been half way through my trip and already I have laughed, cried, been made a king, and made banku. What's next? We head to the Northern region tomorrow. Me doh Ghana Paa

peace.

Monday July 20, 2009: THe WeEkEnD hIgH

2009-07-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

This past weekend in Accra was probably one of the best that I have had yet. I mean, I did not climb a mountain or save a young child from the woes of city life, but it was one of much joy and fulfillment.

12 noon hit friday and the sun was shining in Accra. I was in a hurry to leave the embassy, one to enjoy the nice day and two to get home and take my sowing to the tailor. I planned to get my kente cloth sown into my blazer this weekend. To fulfill my number one wish, to enjoy the nice day with no rain, I practically ran from my office and jumped into the pool. I have really enjoyed swimming as a great way to exercise and cool off in the hot Ghana days. I jumped in the pool and swam several laps. I did this for about 30min, by then I was good and tired and ready to eat. Good thing before I left I grabbed a dinner from the kitchen to take home for the evening. I knew I did not want to cook.

After leaving the embassy I met up with Sola-mae who took me over to the Tailor so that he could tighten up my blazer and then also make some alterations to some of my other things. I really like fitted suits. They make the suit look so much better when the jacket fits nicely around your chest. I took the Tailor three suit jackets, a vest and then the jacket for the kente peice. I asked him how much and thank God I only paid GH 50 cidis for the everything. That is a steal. I have paid 30 USD to have one done nicely in the states. Here I got soo much for so little a cost. For the tailor he thought he was making good money and for me I was sure I was paying a great price. We both win. Told me to come back on Tuesday to get the stuff. Such a great turn around.

I left with a big smile on my face and itchy hands to buy something else. I bought a nice traditional shirt and some black soap. I have been itching to use the black soap. I went home, showered and began reading my materials for the finance class that I am taking. I am taking a free basic intro class to finance. I am learning about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, indexing, retirement planning and all the works. I figure why not, its free, its beneficial and it will def. be helpful. I read through some of that material, took a nap and woke up just in time to prepare things for the small shindig I was having at the house. Some of the guys at the embassy asked me what it meant to have a "guys night out" cuz they heard about it. I told them they could come over and we would have one. They all came over with plenty of beer, I had some gin and we played cards and talked 'ish all night. Some were french and the others Ghanaian. We talked about everything from women to dating to food to cultural stuff. We got a little toasted yes, but we kept it all in house. I have not had a better time. It was refreshing to unwind and just be chill for a while.

The next day they invited me to come swimming with them. So I went, we had a great time. I found out then that one of the guys was married with kids. Eiii! He was one of the main ones talking about women and this and that. LOL. Hey a man's gotta be a man I guess. But it was funny to see how he behaved in front of his wife and kids since they joined us at the pool. What an interesting guy. After that, I went home and met up with some friends at the mall to go to this really ritzy club called Rhapsody's. It is a nice restaurant that turns into a club at night. I actually got called out at the door for being under dressed! I had on some nice leather sandels but they do not let people without dress shoes in. I put on my American charm and got us all in. The food was decent and the after hours was nice. The drinks were very soft but the music was cool. A nice mix of all kinds of things. Naturally, I had to show some people some group line dances that we do in the states. They got a real kick out of that. But the women were gorgeous. They all go there on the weekends. I mean, they were model type women. Beautiful. fefefee!

The night ended well. But I knew I was going to church the next day so I got home in enough time to get some rest before going to church. I promised Marcia, a girl that I met here, that I would go with her to church. No worries, people we are just hanging out. no need to jump to any conclusions America! I know how yall are. Anyway she came and picked me up and we went to church. She took me to a mega church. It was fantastic. God is moving all over Ghana, I tell you. This church was packed and everyone was praising God. I know this sounds crazy that I am talking about drinking and God in the same blog, but I am telling the truth. I did not get drunk off the wine but certainly I got drunk off the word for that day. He spoke about praying and how people should be praying more a day than they do. Interesting because this was something that had been on my mind all along.

After church Marcia and I went and ate lunch before Joel and I went to the futbol game. BOY OH BOY!!! going to a soccer game in Ghana is WILD! Detroit basketball fans aint got nothing on Ghanaian soccer fans. The people went wild over the game. We got there to see hundreds of people crowded in the streets trying to get tickets. Joel and I paid an extra 5 sidi to go to the VIP section which was just a closed off section of the stadium. In order to get the tickets you literally had to fight your way to the front to get them. There was no line no order at all. Joel handed me his phone and book bag and off he went to fight to get us tickets. It took him about 15 min to do the whole thing. There was no way I could get in that crowd. My butt would have been tossed. LOL. He got the tickets and we went in. The crowd was roaring and the sea of people with their team colors alomst blinded me. I have never seen Ghanaians with so much pride. Wow! They ran around the arena all throughout the game and really made the event enjoyable. What an experience. I loved it! Every second of it. I actually gave me some spirit. By the end of the game I was jumping up and doing what everyone else did. When in Ghana you do what the Ghanaians do right? Oh yeah.

After that I went home packed for my trip and took the rest of the evening to make some phone calls and rest. What a weekend of events. I needed to fun and chaos.

Now I am in the western region at a place called Takoradi. I will be traveling over the next week doing a complete tour around Ghana. I mean complete. By the end of this 9 day tour I will have seen all of Ghana, every region every major city. I may have limited access I am not sure so I will try and blog when I can. I hope to go to Mole national park ot see the elephants. Trunks up.

Pray for my safe travels. I am currently in an internet cafe in town. My excitment has been tapped again. The journey continues.

Excuse the grammer I am in a hurry and dont have much time to type. Oh yeah and the kente blazer is hot. I got it done early.

up and out.....

Friday July 17, 2009: A day of importance

2009-07-17T01:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was powerful in its own right. The sense of importance was overwhelming, yet humbling.

Yesterday marked the kick off of Panafest. A biannual celebration where many African Americans, and African people in the diaspora come together to celebrate and commemorate the lives lost in the transatlantic slave trade, as well as this presents many of us with the energy and purpose to dig deeper to find our roots. The celebration began with several wreath laying ceremonies. The first ceremony was for Dr. W.E.B Dubois, the second for George Padmore and the third for Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. At each location they held cultural performances, reciting of speeches, and talks centered around the occasion.

The Ambassador was invited to attend the one at the Kwame Nkrumah memorial site, where the VP of Ghana was expected to attend. The Ambassador could not go, so yours truly got to represent the United States at this event. When my car drove up, I got out, introduced myself as Justin from the U.S Embassy and immediately I was escorted to the VIP, air conditioned section while they waited for the event to begin. I met the Ambassadors to Guinea, Sierra Leon, Togo and I met the deputy ministers of foreign Affairs. At the start of the program we were escorted out to the VIP section where we were greeted by a cultural performance. These were men dressed in Kente stepping, singing and using instruments to make sounds. It was a typical African dance but very powerfully done. It makes me wonder where stepping really originated from. These guys were amazing. I captured much of the display on video and will post soon.

After the cultural performance the motorcade arrived with the VP of Ghana, His excellency John Mahama. At the time he was actually acting president, as president Mills was out of the country. As he sat down I realized who I was sitting behind. I was sitting behind the VP of Ghana! Never in America would people have this right so easily. When they introduced me I stood up and waived my hand. The VP turned around and gave me a smile and nod. America and Ghana are well.

I could not stay too long, because it was getting late. The event was suppose to begin at 12 but in true Ghanaian style it began at 1pm. I think, for the most part, I have gotten used to the lateness in Ghana. It is just something that you have to prepare for. You really cannot expect much to begin promptly at the time stated. So people actually show up late to give time for things to actually get started. It just so happens that when everyone does that, who then shows up on time to get it started? Kinda funny. But I really can't talk because African Americans do it too. They just do it on another level.

The day ended with me having some talks with a British agency committed to developing intellectual property rights in Ghana. As it stands much of the intellectual property issue is a new thing across the board. Many of the unique crafts, resources that the Ghanaians and other African nations own are not protected under international property rights. The Ghanaians do not own the property rights to Kente, Shea Butter or Black Soap. It just so happens that these products, in some way, help to define Africa. Some large pharmaceutical company will come in, buy up the rights to black soap and then market it as their own. The Africans will no longer be able to call it their own. I think this is something to look into. It could generate some healthy revenue for some African nations. Let's keep talking about it.

cheers!

Thursday July 16, 2009 : The Frustrating Part

2009-07-16T01:45:00.000-07:00

The frustrating part about life is not getting what you expected to get. Granted you will not always get what you expected out of someone or something, but what if your expectations were really low and you still did not get that. Or what if it was no fault of your own and you still did not get what you expected. As people, we are entitled some times to get what our expectations will provide to us. This is why we have standards, set goals and set expectations. Think of a world where there were no goals, no expectations and no standards. Anything goes mentality.

A lot people think that Africa is an anything goes society. Given that Africa is a continent, with many cultures, people etc. it still gets put into this monolith where people think they can just come here and do what they want when they want. Sometimes I grow shameful of some Americans who visit African nations with all of these wild expectations and this "holier than thou" attitude towards people. I see it everyday in Ghana. The people have created a subservient mentality and just accept it. It is disparaging to see how in a place so rich and full of culture and tradition that outside negative influences often tame how people view their world --in their country.

In any case, tis life. What can you do other than empower people. How to empower people in a developing country? Where each day is not promised. Clean water, food, and protection is not guaranteed. People are not concerned with being empowered. They want to simply live.

I have become more observant of how people behave. My mind and thrill have moved past the "omg I am in Africa" stage to the "omg why" and for what? stage. In a place like this you have to be very observant. You, as an American are being watched all the time, why not return the favor.

Sola-Mae, is doing most of the cleaning today. I saw her yesterday and this morning before I left and she seemed not to be herself. Joel informed me that her grandmother was sick and that she had been worrying about that. In addition, she has been worried about her job. After I leave, she does not know who she would clean for. It is a double jeopardy that many Ghanaians play each and every day. I am working with her to find her a post Justin employment. My little 20 cedi a week goes a long way for her, an outcome that I am just now beginning to understand.

It is a lul right now in Ghana. Post Obama mortem. Everyone is winded down and people's frustration, for most, is setting in. Joel is down with a mild case of Malaria, Kojo is also fighting a mild case, Sola Mae is dealing with her grandmother, the rain has settled down a bit so people are hot. I for one am not upset or down, I am a bit frustrated though for no reason at all. I think it just rubbed off. Any words to get me out of this awkward frustration mode would be helpful. I need all the energy I can get for my trip over the coming week.

Until next time.

Wednesday July 15, 2009: Kweku Days

2009-07-15T01:37:00.000-07:00

Today is Wednesday. The day that I was born. Therefore as I mentioned earlier I am Kewku. Come to find out Kwekus are the mischievous ones. I am not bad, am I. Don't answer that please.

Most of my housemates have moved out and myself and another person are sharing the house. Still a rather large house for two people. Being in that house makes me think "damn I never had it this good" and according to most other diplomats the house is not the best it can be. Geeze, what do people look for nowadays.

When I begin working in the Fall full time this will be the first full time job that I have ever had, save summer time working. But I mean actually being a full time professional and not a student anymore. I do have plans to finish up the Law School as my last formal degree but in the mean time I want to enjoy making some money. I plan to invest in an IRA, 401K, do some saving and open up with a gov. credit union. This money saving and investing thing is intimidating. I want to ensure that my future is secure and that I am making the right investments with my money.

The remainder of the week is TBA. I plan to chill in Accra this weekend and catch up on some rest. Next Monday I will begin my excursion across the Ghanaian countryside. It will be about a 9 day trek but I am looking forward to the adventure.

1 luv

Tuesday July 14, 2009: Days Swiftly Pass

2009-07-14T01:50:00.000-07:00

After the POTUS visit things have really calmed down all across the board. Everyone is a bit more relaxed. People have moved back into business as usual.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to speak to a group of Ghanaian women who are planning to attend a convention in Las Vegas called COSMOPROF. A convention that brings together men and women from across the globe who do cosmetics, hair dressing, packaging etc. These women are going to find out new things on the market that they may be able to use in their stores. Their eagerness to visit the United States only eclipses their love for what they do each day. The opportunity for many of them to travel to the United States comes far and few in between. They plan to cherish each moment of their time.

Being in Ghana has taught me a few things about being black in the world and even more so about being black in America. In much of our pushing and shoving to the top we begin to overindulge in Afrocentricity. Allow me to explain. We are so concerned with presenting this idea of what it means to be black that we forget about the fight. We indulge in Afrocentricity so much that we miss out on opportunities to serve, fight oppression, poverty and provide opportunity to the countless who do not have it. We forget and become selfishly consumed in our own attempts at being black. It all boils down to us wanting to remain connected to the fist. We pump the fist of unity in the air and at the end of the day all we have done is reposition the air particles. We have done little in advancing the ideals that surround real unity. We allow our own egos to grow larger than the movement itself.

Being here I have come to realize, in some small way, that Africans do not care about this idea of black superiority. They care more about being self sufficient, educating their children and hoping for a better tomorrow. Their kind disposition warrants such a thing. While in the US, sure our struggles are different, yet we still do not educate our children, provide for our sick and poor nor do we control how America sees us. We are slaves to our own existence. We remain couched in outdated notions of Afrocentricity, wants and desires, and hope in people. Lets move on to a bigger and better tomorrow, how can you do something today that will enhance tomorrow? Literally.

Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind....its time for real change folks. Lets not let the "Yes we can" remain a slogan but lets move that into a mentality.

be loved.

Weekend of July 10-12, 2009: A presidential awakening

2009-07-12T06:54:00.001-07:00

The time is 10:55pm, and I am walking around the Ghanaian White House re-checking over and over again the steps that my president will take upon his arrival to Ghana. Fatigue set in as my eyes perused the document I held outlining the weekend's events. Never in my life did I think I would be this close, doing this much. My president, the first African American president of the United States is coming to Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time as President and I am there.

These words are even tough to write because it feels like I am still in a dream somewhere caused by the Malaria Pills. In an effort to break from daydreaming and affirm my real state, I pinched myself and quickly realized that this was all about to happen. I lay down that night with my pulse ablaze and my mind wondering all over. Did I do all that I could to ensure this one man's safety, enjoyment, and a memorable experience in Ghana? After talking to myself and going over the protocol steps again in my head my eyes glazed over and I headed for REM sleep.

My phone buzzed at 5:15am. I awoke showered and prepped myself to look my best for this most important day for me and for Ghana. I have never been on the planning side and strategic side of a presidential visit. So much to be done, so little time, so many people. As I wondered how it all was to come into place, my sense of comfort emerged well within my confidence that me and my team did everything right.

I headed to Osu Castle, where the president of Ghana sits, and the first stop for President Obama on his visit. I noticed the amount of people walking the streets, the amount of cleaning being done and the amount of traffic. Everyone was preparing, in their own way, for this man's arrival. If I did not know any better I would think that the people in Ghana care more about our president than theirs.

My heart bled patriotism as I stepped out of the car and positioned myself for his arrival. At 9:45am everything was in place. The attendees for the breakfast were seated, the honor guards were sharp and focused, and all his staff and support poised. Our eyes locked on one spot, the gate where his motorcade would enter. Alas, his arrival, the honor guards clicked their heels and his vehicle entered. I stood at the door just as his vehicle came in, I saw him smiling in the back seat. It was really him.

The days event went well. Every move was calculated, each person was scanned and vetted before they got any where near either president. The Ghanaian staff that helped to serve, clean and make the palace nice quoted to me that this was one of the happiest days of their lives, other than when Ghana celebrated 50 years of being independent. Everyone had a place and everyone was in it. The entire time he was there I could not have been any more than 15-20 feet away from him. So much so that after a short time, and the excitement ran its course he became a normal guy. He and his wife. They were humble, energetic and happy to be in Ghana. For many of us it was a success for America, a success for Ghana and a success for Africa.

After the Bilateral meeting and the breakfast, The president and the first lady went to La Hospital in Accra. They spent 45 min there holding babies and visiting the indigent. Upon leaving the hospital they noticed hundreds of Ghanaians assembled in the streets. He gave the word to stop the car. President Obama got out, and began hugging people in the crowd. The press could not get enough and the people assembled cried in awe that this man, this icon to some, was giving them hugs..no strings attached..no vetting...no security scans. As he was leaving, some of the Ghanaians were kissing the staff in thanking them for this wonderful experience. One of the Black Agents, actually teared up. For him, it was unbelievable to watch our president hugging the older women, almost as if he were their son. For me it was a reality that hit me when I watched him walk up to the dancers who were awaiting his arrival and watched them for 10 min, commenting on their cultural practices, of which he paralleled to his own.

After the visit, they all headed to Parliament where he addressed the nation and the world, saying that "The future of Africa is in the hands of Africans"- the crowed roared at this obvious notion, but because it came from him at a time like this, this a was music to their ears. It is indeed true, the future of Ghana is in the hands of Ghanaians, not America, not GB or South Africa. We have to have faith and trust that all will be well as long as the right resources are in place. Hope is one of the most powerful weapons against oppression and poverty.

He and his family flew to Cape Coast to see the slave castle. They were greeted by the chief of the area and given a guided tour by some staff. He and Michelle were moved by the experience. His daughters entered through the door of no return, the door where slaves were sent to board the ships to America. After they went through...due to progress by our ancestors, hard fought battles and blood shed...they came back through those doors. When I spoke with Michelle Obama about her experience in Cape Coast she informed me that she wished she had gone longer. I told her to visit Elmina Castle as well. Before they left, the chief of the area gave the Obama's a plot of land to come back and build a home to live. "You are home" the chief said.

At the end of their visit we were all tired. Our bodies ached of standing, our minds tired of pre-thinking and second guessing. When they arrived back in the motorcade and the president's stood next to each other on the podium and gave reflections and farewell remarks, I knew then it was all worth it. He came down and shook all of our hands. The crowd cheered Obama, and the euphoria became uncontrollable. This visit actually did more for Ghana than any amount of money from the US could have. It renewed a sense of tradition for many, Ghanians and African Americans, it strengthened the very ideals that Ghanaians hold about America and black Americans, as well as how the world sees Africa and Ghana. In addition, it tapped the joyful side of the people of Ghana. They realize that peace works, love works and joy comes in the morning as the sun rises along the African coast.

The first family boarded the plane, and wheels were up at around 8. My president and his family are now safe and home with reflections of their past, present and future; while we sat drinking Hennessey with the National Security Advisor for Ghana, the minister of information, the personal assistant to the president and other Ghanaian VIPs. The toast to good health and better countries was made by Ambassador Kanda, a staunch figure in the Ghanaian government. At that moment my reflection was nothing more than "I am home". God bless America and God bless Ghana.

Friday July 10, 2009: The Week's end

2009-07-10T02:59:00.000-07:00

What seemed like a rather long week is coming to an end. The president of the United States, Barack Obama will be in Ghana at evenings fall, another week will have been completed here in Ghana and my friend Ray will be leaving on Sunday. Not to mention the vacations that people are taking post Obama visit. I guess the stress wore people out so much that as soon as he leaves they leave.

I suppose this will challenge me in some ways. I will be left to get things done on my own while also managing how I am to spend my time left here, now that all of the most exciting things are over. I suppose the thrill of Ghana is slowly coming to an end. With five weeks left, that could be scary. But I won't speak so soon. At the end of July I will be traveling across the country to Tancoradi, Kumasi, Tamale and a few other rural villages. I hope to really get a glimpse as to what life is really like outside of the major cities. In addition, there are some really cool conferences and events coming up. I hope to be able to attend them. Aside from that I plan to catch up no some reading, writing and thinking. You can never get enough of that.

You would be amazed at how a person can learn to occupy time. What may seem like hours to some seems like minutes when you are reading and calmly enjoying the simple things that life can offer. Sometimes it's good to let peace be still. Allow your mind to roam where it has never been before. Allow your thoughts to control your emotions for once. See where your imagination will take you. I plan to hit the beach some time soon just to relax and do nothing. Its good for the mind.

Joel and I plan to go to a soccer game on Sunday. I want to experience the thrill and excitement that comes with really seeing this game in a place where it matters to everyone, no matter the age, gender or intellect. People love this game. I actually bought a soccer shirt, #10 of the Ghana team. I forget his name but I think he is the captain. I hope non of my Ghanaian friends read this one or they may get upset with me. Kojo can't though because I will blast him out for not knowing the one thing all Ghanaians should know. But I will hold it in. LOL.

Ray and I went out last night to a hangout spot called Bywell in Osu. It was an outside place with a live band. It was nice. We meet up with some folks I know from the White House and partied to ease our minds about the president's visit. Today I plan to order a pizza, put in a movie and ease my mind so that I can fulfill my duties tomorrow with my President, my fearless leader, my brother....Barack Obama.

l8ter

Wednesday July 8, 2009 : Hump Day

2009-07-08T02:14:00.000-07:00

Today is a typical ordinary Wednesday. Hump day. People are beginning to think about making plans for the weekend. Some are well in the midst of projects while others have gotten irritating towards each other. Hump day is no different in Ghana.

Despite the day of the week, or the sour feelings promoted by hump day, things still go on. Again, people in Ghana live in the moment. One of the driver's names is Adams. Adams has been driving in the motor pool business for nearly 15 years. He has two daughters and is happily married. For all that he has known, he has been driving for people. He owns a small pickup truck and drives a motorbike daily. He calls the motorbike his jewel. A rather simple man with a very intelligent mind set. Each day I ride with him I learn something new. I ask one simple question and he expounds on the history, the impact and the future. He is very aware despite his working 12 hour days 6 days a week to do his job. I never hear him complain, each morning he has a smile on his face and he goes out of his way to make a strong impression. Humble, intelligent and dependable.

Meet Esther. Esther works here at the embassy. She has been for the past 8 years. She works in the commerce division of the embassy and works with Ghanaian and American businesses. Each day she comes to work she has a big smile on her face, she is dressed to kill and she is overall like a mother figure. Her awareness goes unparalleled with others I have met. She has not missed a day of work in quite sometime. She loves what she does and not once have I ever seen her frown or complain about her life. Yet each day, no matter how I am feeling, she has a big smile and says "Good morning Justin"

Meet Patrick. Patrick is from Togo and is one of the cooks here in the embassy. He found out I spoke French he revels in that fact and speaks to me only in French, unless I begin in English. Each day I go in to get bfast and lunch he greets me and asks me how my day is going. He and I have played cards once where he taught me some games and I taught him. He loves working and is bright and cheerful each day.

Meet Kukwa or Spohia. Me and Kojo go to church with her each Sunday. She is beautiful. Her warm, charming personality really makes me think that there are still nice people out there. She is very kind, and always willing to help. She studied in London and is now working here in Accra. She makes hand made cards for people. She is very good. She is fully in Christ and her laugh causes instant comfort. No matter how the day goes, she helps to show the bright side.

These are just some of the people that I have met. I could literally go on and on about some. It simply amazes me how much potential a place like Ghana has. The sheer drive to learn is just one part.

One thing I have noticed is that despite people's living conditions, level of education or job, Ghanaians are generally very observant intelligent people. I have met some of the drivers who are trained engineers. The intellectual capacity here is remarkable. In the U.S. we lack, in some ways, the burning desire to learn and stay intellectually driven. Here, people yearn to learn. Of course I don't mean everybody yet the vast majority of people that I have encountered on all levels of income and living conditions have always been willing to yield their time to learn. It makes people generally a lot nicer and compromising when learning subsumes their wishes.

Ray is spending the day with Joel while I am at work. They are going to play soccer, eat at a chop bar, and visit where Joel lives. Yesterday we went to the movies at the Accra Mall and had dinner there. It has been raining since yesterday. We hope that the rain lessens as the weekend approaches.

Tuesday July 7, 2009 : Obama in Ghana

2009-07-07T03:18:00.001-07:00

President Obama will make his visit to Accra, Ghana this Friday. The country is poised and ready to accept his arrival with open arms. Ghanaians are hopeful that amid all of the chaos that his visit will bring, and I mean chaos in a good way, that they will get a glimpse of the world famous Obama.

The city is filled with Obama and Mills signs. It seems as if Ghana is more excited about our president than their own. President Obama, just like Rambo, Stalone, and Commando is truly loved and admired for the work he has done. The spirit of America is live in Ghana this summer. I am lucky to be here working on this event. I am ready and willing to do what I can to ensure that my president has a pleasant and enjoyable stay in Ghana. He, his wife and his kids are sure to establish, strengthen and display a sense of pride and love for who they are which consquently will allow for others to have that same pride in who they are.

The city will be filled with people trying to see President Obama. Ghanaians are walking from villages, taking buses from cities and some are even flying in from neighboring countries. I have never seen so much for one person. This weekend should be one to remember.

Already, I have been able to meet some outstanding White House Personnel. I met a fellow fraternity brother who is one of the leads for the White House advance team. Its all about who you know not what you know. God has a funny way of setting things up. He makes history worth while, he paints a picture clear enough for you to see.

God bless America and God bless Ghana

Sunday June 5, 2009.

2009-07-06T02:58:00.000-07:00

After a thriiling ride back to Accra we rested, ate and decided to go out to a nice club spot. I went to bed empowered.

We went to church Sunday morning. Before church started the members spent time out in the streets asking people to come to church. We brought a young boy by the name of Charles. He was a grass cutter. You could tell that he spent his days swinging a knife to cut grass. He initially said he would only stay 30min in church but ended up staying the entire time and giving his life to Christ. God is moving.

After church we went by the market to get a few items. And then we went to the Dr. Kwame N. national historic site. It was so telling of his legacy as Ghana’s first president.

What a weekend, what a time of understanding and knowledge, in all thy getting get understanding.

Satruday June 4, 2009 Cape Coast 2

2009-07-06T02:56:00.000-07:00

What if God had it planned differently? What if he meant for Africa to be the epicenter of wealth, resources, culture, and strength in the modern world? Africa is full of so many riches, many cultures, languages, gold, diamonds, coffee, cocoa, rice, corn, bauxite, a diverse group of animals, deserts, rain forests, jungles, Savannah, and much much more. What if we got it wrong? We were backwards? Where would we as African people be? Why would God place such wealth in a place that remains in such poverty?

I spent my 4th of July not celebrating my Independence from Brittan. My ancestors were not free. They were in bondage against their will, being sold for guns and gun powder, being maimed, raped and beaten. This may have been the most meaningful 4th of July experience ever.

We arrived with excitement to the Elmina area of Ghana. The streets were filled with merchants, the smell of fish, and wood. The fishing boats aligned the coast with the flags of many countries in Africa and the goats roamed the streets, making for Elmina to be one of the most thriving and captivating hubs in Ghana. Elmina or Al Mine castle sat at the top of the hill overlooking the ocean and the town on two different sides. The white eye sore sat quietly with power while below people lived off 2 cedi a day. We got out of the taxi with a slight sense of confusion. Why so much excitement below for such a negative piece of history above? Despite our ignorance, life still went on and the merchants managed to get a couple of cedi out of us before we headed into the castle.

For myself and Ray it cost 4 cedi to get in, for Kojo it was 1. If I had not shown my college ID then it would have cost 7 cedi. What a difference in price. We began the tour by visiting the small museum that gave the history of Elmina. I took a picture of the shackles in the museum. They were heavy and they seemed to have been made of a metal that rusted well and carved into the skin when placed up against it. Our first stop on the tour was the Female Slave dungeon. Adorned with the blood of my ancestors, painted over with white paint, the plain walls covered the open area where the dutch Governor chose his bed mate for the night. They would bring the slave woman out of the holding cell, wash her, and send her to his bedroom. If she was found to be pregnant, the child was taken and educated and she was placed back into the quarters away from her child.

The dungeons had little light, no system of cleaning the feces, and urine and had little, if any, ventilation. The most some places got were peep holes for the guards. Both the men and the women were crammed hundreds at a time for up to 6 months before leaving for America. The ones who survived the beatings, cramped living space, the feces and urine, the little food and the heavy hand and heavy lashings from the guards, were considered the strongest and therefore loaded on to the ships to set sail for America. Here, they would be placed in much worse conditions.

My skin begin to crawl as I still smelled the rotting of human flesh. It was in the walls. No amount of paint could take away hate, and the shedding of innocent blood. My mind was racing with question after question yet I remained in silence, to reflect on the experience and remind myself of how lucky I am, as well as to pray for my ancestors.

The most chilling experience was the condemned cell. This is where they placed you to die. They would not feed you, give you water or sun light. You simply sat there and watched yourself rot away. There I found markings on the floor of finger nails digging into the cement.

The entire experience was one of pain. Why did this happen? Could never be answered or asked enough. This point of no return signified the end of life in Africa as we know it. Many of those men and women were dead on arrival. Their spirits had been gone well before the slave masters tried to take it. All that was left was fight for some, sympathy, and even love. The beauty of it was that despite it all in the words of Celie from Color Purple “I’s here”.

Both Cape coast and Elmina castles shared a history so uncouth, so uncanny, so hated, so bad. This experience in history set the stage for how dark skinned people would be treated across the world. The experiences, however, are humbling, moving and emotional.

As I stood amid the cannon balls and looked out into the ocean, I prayed for my family. My family members lost at sea, lost in battle and lost in Africa, will never be forgotten. They suffered so that I could live free. Those are real heroes, real martyrs. Even against their will they loved, even against their will they persevered. Never in my life has 4th of July meant so much more. For the first time, I consumed emotion, knowledge and appreciation on this holiday…not ribs, watermelon and potato salad. For some reason though, those foods have become slave masters in themselves.

Friday June 3, 2009 Cape Coast Trip 1, Kakum National Park

2009-07-06T02:54:00.000-07:00

The Friday began like any other. The morning orchestra never missed a beat, and Sola Mae sweeping the drive way with a make shift broom all made for morning nostalgia. I wanted to get an early start to the day so that we could beat some of the traffic when trying to leave Accra. Cape Coast is about 2 ½ hours west of Accra along the coast line. Ray and I woke up, got dressed and headed out the door with haste. We were suppose to be meeting Kojo at 9 am to head out to CC. We arrived at the Tro Tro station at 8:55am. With time to spare we walked around a bit and caught a glimpse of the hustle and bustle of the market environment. After about 15 min I called Kojo…he had not arrived. We sat there waiting for almost 1 ½ hours waiting on Kojo to come. And yes Kojo I know you are reading this you late bum! He finally arrived and we hesitantly decided to take a Tro Tro for 2 hours. Not the best decision.

We paid our 4 cedi and boarded the tro tro with the expectation that we had gotten a good deal. How bad could things get? Well, we sat down eagerly waiting the tro tro traveling experience when we realized that buses do not leave in Ghana until they are completely full. This means that every seat and every space that could physically fit a body would be full. By leaving early they would be losing money. We waited in the Tro Tro for about 1.25 hours! Aye Yae Yae! Sitting in a Tro Tro, in the hot sun, with your knees pressing against the seat is not exactly how one should spend any moment of the day. While we were sitting there the merchants selling items bombarded the tro tros trying to sell last minute items to the travelers. In addition, the drivers and promoters of the tro tro were haggling with potential riders. At noon we pulled off headed for Cape Coast. I had no space between by knee and the metal part inside the seat in front of me. My knees told me never to do that again. The ride was not too bad, I think the prayer that was done at the beginning placed a covering over us.

We arrived in Cape Coast at the tro tro station in town. We jumped out of the car and headed directly to Kakum National park. It was about a 15 min drive north of CC. We bargained with the taxi to drive us there for 12 cedi. We arrived to a beautiful park with abundant trees, walkways, animals, and smiling faces ready to take our money and show us a worthwhile time. Kakum was quite the experience!

We decided the camp out over night. We rented a tent, already put up for us, a night guide who took us on a night walk, a morning walk and sleep in the tent right next to us. To begin our roughing it experience, we went on the canopy walk. The wood and rope, fixture aligned the canopy swaying back and forth across the Forest. Many of the kids from the schools around the area were very scared. Our tour guide gave us a tour of the canopy walk wearing boat alligator shoes, a white dress shirt with cuff links, black slacks and a rather interesting love for nature. He was an engineer by training but loved to give canopy walks. I mean, if you love it you love it. I could barely do it in thong flip flops, cargo shorts and an express tee.

The canopy walk was exciting. I captured some great pictures. Check them out on FB. After the walk we sat down to eat Yams, Palava Sauce and of course chicken. Chicken and rice are staple products. We had to order the food for the camping trip because the kitchen closed soon. We asked to get camping type food for the trip. Instead we were given Jallof rice and chicken. I suppose in Ghana this is camping food.

We ate and waited for our guide to come and take us to our tent. When Baffour arrived he took us to our tent. It felt like we walked for a mile uphill to get to our camp site. We were provided with a mattress and a pillow. It was a cool set up. On the way back from the canopy walk we also bought palm wine, and ate coconuts from the trees. When we got to our camp site we decided to take our hour night tour around 8pm. Until then we sat and talked about our experience thus far. Then we got into a conversation about the future of Ghana. That occupied much of the remaining time until we began the walk. Two AAs, two Ghanaians, one who spent his life in the woods and another who spent his life in the oil fields set out on our night nature walk to catch a glimpse of the wild life. During the walk we heard monkeys, birds and bugs. We almost saw a bush baby but he ran behind a tree. What we did experience however were fire ants.

As we were walking, tossing spider webs out of the way, stepping in jungle mush, we noticed the guide begin to run. He was yelling ants! Ants! I looked down to see my feet covered with fire ants all biting my flesh. The same was for Ray and Kojo. It felt like sharp nails piercing my skin. I ran and left one of my flip flops. In my excitement and fear I yell forget the shoe, then after about 5 yards running in one shoe, I yell never mind I need my shoe. Ray grabs my shoe and I stop to put it on, then realizing that at any stop more ants were piling on. I put on my shoe and ran until it was safe. We all had many bits and light breath from the running. Apparently the trail was full of them for about 50 yards. This was a narrow trail so running through this was not easy. Yet our fear enabled us to do it. After that our eyes were no longer in the trees looking for animals but looking for ants on the ground.

We arrived back to the camp site hurting, tired and hungry. A nice set up for us to consume lots of palm wine. We ate our jungle food aka Jallof rice and chicken and downed the palm wine. We then begin to tell scary stories, talk about each other and make loud noises in the jungle. I think we should have just had a big sign that said "come eat us jaguar". We ended the night killing spiders and ants in our tent. None of us really slept, if ray was not getting bitten by mosquitos, then Kojo was talking about how he has insomnia and could not sleep or I was turning my flash light on and off looking for bugs. The ant experience has us all edgy.

We finally went to sleep to light rain, the sound of the local village celebrating a wake for their deceased, and Baffour snoring in the other tent. What a day.

We awoke to the sound of Mona monkeys swinging through the trees. We began our 5:45am walk with excitement that we would see so much wild life. We did get to see some monkeys. We arrived back to the main area, washed up and headed back to cape coast to our first slave castle……wow…never in my life….

Paradoxical

2009-07-06T02:52:00.000-07:00

Today July 2, was a half-day at work. Ray arrived successfully and my friend Sam met him at the airport. With a hand written sign that said Raymond, Sam stood proudly at the end of the ramp and waited to see a new American face.

I arrived to the airport about 45 min after Ray arrived. This gave him time to get through customs and get his luggage. I dropped him off at the house and hurried back to work to prepare for the 4th of July celebration at the ambassador’s residence.

I arrived at the Ambassador’s residence to find large tents, long grills with hot dogs flown in from Germany, hamburgers and chicken quarters. My job for the day was to be a puller. I stood at the end of the receiving line and escorted the VIPs to the food and beverage area. I certainly did not mind this because it gave me time to meet the VIPs, nana noms (chiefs), and diplomats from other countries. Within an hour of the gates opening, the yard was full of people trying to smooze with the Ambassador in hopes of getting a shot to meet president Obama. For about an hour cars pulled up to the front door and VIPs were dropped off by their drivers and escorted by another puller into the receiving line where they shook the hand of the Ambassador and the Deputy Ambassador.

At the event you had a Ghanaian Choir, imported American beer, a live band, flags of all of the states hung around the tents and happy people stuffing their faces with free food and political jargon. There were a few interesting things that happened at this event.

1. I randomly met this AKA whose husband just started working for the embassy. We had been seeing each other and talking to each other without even knowing. Greeks are all over the world I guess
2. I got to meet the widow of Bob Marley. What a phenomenal woman she is. Very graceful, intelligent, and captivating. Her smile was contagious.
3. The live Ghanaian band started playing and singing Mexican folk music. What was funnier was that at one point the Ghanaian bandleader was signing Mexican songs, at a 4th of July celebration standing right in front of the Mississippi state flag. The burning cross. The flag that still reminds a lot of slavery in the U.S. This was hilarious to me, of course me being a new person, I had to notice something like that. The world is certainly changing.

After the event, I walked home and ran into Joel riding his bike to work. He walked with me back to the house. Ray and I walked to a local restaurant got our $3 haircuts and enjoyed Banku, without the chop bar experience. He did not like the Banku so much, but hey its about experiences huh? Afterwards we walked around the area. We ended the night planning the next day’s events…which were sure to be quite memorable.

Thursday July 2, 2009: The little things

2009-07-02T01:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Republic Day for Ghana. I think is it the official celebration of when Ghana became a republic, which is sometime after its Independence in 1957 from Great Britain. So we had the day off. It was a rather unique day in that the sun was brightly shining in the sky, almost as if it had not be raining for the past week. The sun reared its head to see what was going on in Ghana. Quite frankly, so did I. I walked around outside the house and noticed that music and food was everywhere. I used my camera to capture some photos of the surrounding scenery and of the garden at our house. After taking the pictures I realized that we have one hell of a garden. I mean, its like a botanical garden, with lizards, flowers and all sorts of trees. Pics coming soon on facebook.

I went to the Accra mall again yesterday. I wanted to use the Internet and watch a movie in the movie theatre. I saw Ice Age 3. For some reason I thoroughly enjoyed the movie experience. It really was not anything different than the ones at home, but it was the little things that mattered. Before the movie I had a burger and fries, again not anything really different about US fast food, except that you can actually tell that the cows out here eat something different so the meat tastes weird but again it's the little things that mattered.

I bought some postcards to send out. I actually had fun writing them out. I have never been the one to do post cards but I see how it is such a big business. A quick letter from abroad. I could appreciate getting one. I hope my family likes them.

The Accra mall is a south African type mall in west Africa. It is the only mall, I think, in west Africa. The mall is way too small for the crowd it brings. The Internet station had a two hour wait! For 1 cedi an hour who would want to get up? The people walked around in droves. Many young Ghanaian men and women hanging out. They hang out in stores. Even in the grocery store they hang out! And I thought hanging out in Wal-Mart at home was bad. It's way too small, I mean you can barely walk around. And you can go from one side of the mall to the other in like a second. For those familiar with ATL malls it is sort of like a modern version of West End Mall. lol. But ya know it is good for the economy. It is a great way to begin to push Ghana forward. Even though the mall is small and packed, it's the little things that matter.

I keep saying in my posts that Ghanaians are some of the kindest people you will ever meet. I mean it. The other day I was in a car that stalled and we had to pull off on the side of the road. My friend told me that if that ever happened I would get a crowd. And boy oh boy was she right. Within 5 min we had a crowd of Ghanaian men around us. It was literally like about 15 men. They all pulled over and got out to help out. I think we had a small alternator problem that could be fixed with some WD 40. Guys came from out of no where. Remember when I said people are always watching? I mean they really came out to help. It was funny and very warming all at the same time. I saw another car failure not too long after and yet again there were at least 10 people out there. In America, we zoom right past people and don't stop. In fact, we have to use flares, a raised hood and perhaps pretty women to get someone to stop. We had to do nothing in Ghana. God bless these people. The little things.

We will celebrate the 4th of July today as an embassy. Boy do I miss the ribs, corn on the cob, potato salad etc. I have not been home for a 4th of July in years. I have always been away. Can someone send me some BBQ ribs? We are off tomorrow for the American holiday so I plan to hit the streets, rain or shine.

One of my best friends Ray McGill is flying into Accra today to spend a week with me. I am really excited. This will be a lot of fun. He arrives in about 30 min and I am scheduled to pick him up at the airport with the driver. Ray is a bit more adventurous than I so Stay tuned blog world, maybe these blogs are about to get really fun. Thanks everyone for keeping up. I still have about 7 weeks to go. maybe I will add some more things to this blog at the end and turn it into a book about life. I mean, I think I can come up with some life lessons, incorporate people's comments in the book. What do people think?

ntil next time cheers!!

Tuesday June 30, 2009: Rain Rain go away

2009-06-30T01:35:00.000-07:00

If you did not think Ghana had much of a rain season then you are sadly mistaken. The rain comes and does not go. For the past two weeks it has rained every single day, literally for hours each day. Luckily, I have not been caught in the rain but it comes down. For many of the Ghanaians, the rain does not stop the show. Life goes on. I suppose that once I get used to the wet damp earth and the cool wet breeze I too will go on.

For some reason rain here does not feel like rain in the states. I think it is a mindset. Over here, people are conditioned to just being ok in the rain, while in the US we all run when it begins to rain. It gets irritating and then people just stay at home. I guess the big reason is that it gets cold and rainy in the US while here, it is still warm outside. In America, we are conditioned to reacting to the weather in such predictable ways. I have not even seen a weather channel over here.

Tis life.

I am on a cocoa high. I have never been a big chocolate fan but since I have been here about 20% of my diet surrounds cocoa. Cocoa accounts for 13% of the Agricultural GDP and for a country whose Agriculture is a large portion of the overall GDP this is big. Cocoa is one of Ghana's number 1 exports. I love the stuff. I have a cup of hot cocoa every night before I go to bed. I have some called Golden Tree and Milo. Both manufactured in Ghana. The Golden Tree is pure cocoa powder. It smells like nothing I have ever had but it is good. I put some sugar cubes in it with some ideal Ghana milk and it hits the spot. The Milo is a little more souped up. It has vitamins and stuff in it. Both are addicting. I am also addicted to wafers with cocoa in the middle. Ya know, the crisp wafers you can get in the store? Wow.

Imagine yourself laying back watching a movie on the Armed Forces Network...it's our cable network that only has 10 channels, no commercials but instead has subliminal messages about the US military...Anyway imagine you are about to watch a movie...oh yeah and the movie selection is not good at all...ok back to the story, imagine yourself getting ready to watch shakedown or notting hill because you are desperate for a movie. You heat the water to prepare a cup of Golden Tree. You carefully place the sugar cubes into the glass, you pour the ideal milk in the glass and you open the top of the Golden Tree powder. The rich chocolate smell burns your nose hairs and your olfactory nerve (the nerve that helps you smell) is begging for more. You place two spoon fulls of the GT in the cup, and by now the hot water is ready. When you pour the water into the cup, you hear the faint buzzing sound of your taste buds fighting to the front of the receiving line. You place the glass to your mouth and you are ready to sip, when you notice that a cocoa leaf is floating in your glass. Your first instinct is to back away but the leaf even smells like chocolate. You ignore the distraction and you savor the rich taste of Ghanaian cocoa, pure from the cocoa fields. emmmmm emmmmm...

I hope I have been able to place you in the cocoa mood. US Hot chocolate will never do it for me. I will be bringing some cocoa back with me.

The weeks are speeding up now that during the week I relax a bit and don't run around Ghana like a chicken with my head cut off. I still have 8 weeks left. I think I have time to relax sometimes.

My friend Joel Adams just got on facebook. He writes on my wall and everyone else's wall everyday. LOL. He also is friending my female friends and calling them "pretty one" and Baby. He does not quite get that we don't do that so easily in America. He is very aggressive with women, as some Africans are. So if he writes on your wall and befriends you please do not get offended if he sends you a message everyday.

Be well all...the weekend is coming...

June 26-27, 2009: Living for the weekend

2009-06-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

Sorry. You must remain in suspense of the meeting. Sometimes suspense is a good thing lol. What I can say is "wow what a weekend it has been". I mean, I did not have a life threatening situation or save any kids but for me, culturally, educationally it was great.

Being overseas feels a lot like being at home when you find your niche and become comfortable with the environment. You stop bitching, complaining and wishing things were like home and you learn two things 1. Shit happens (forgive my language) 2. You just deal with it. Once you learn how to make due and make it happen you begin to learn how to love. I figure that goes for a lot of things in life. I mean, what must you do to learn to love? Learn to put up with the things that are not as easy to love. It's sort of like an experience desensitization. Ghana...Africa has been that. I could have written about all of the issues that I have been having, all of the messed up things and all of the short comings, but why? Why fill the air with negativity? Why promote bad? Sometimes when you ignore bad and learn to deal with it, you see good. I figure if people can't get used to good news and positive living then what does that say about what we really care about. No one wants to come to Ghana and experience the bad, you want the good.

Friday was good. I got home and relaxed after a long politically filled day. I met with the chair of the NPP party to learn a little about the political structure. I also plan to meet with the leader of the NDC party when he gets some free time. The NDC party is the party in power. Sort of similar, but not all the way, with the Democratic party in America and the NPP like the republicans. It was good to get a run down of the current political landscape in Ghana. You can begin to see how things really work and in some ways how political things are.

Later that evening I went out to a bar/lounge. I had a few drinks and danced to MJ. The club was playing his music on and off all night. It was interesting to see how the Ghanaians took MJ's death. Like I was telling a friend... they have reacted a little less emotional than the average African American. Of course you know that from our perspective MJ was apart of our lives. He, through his music, became part of our family. His music, with so much love and soul spoke to us as blacks in America. I am sure we all have watched his story and know his business just about as much as our family.

So for them this is tough, but they do not have the same spiritual connection like we do. We understand the black American dynamic, which is what MJ lived. They view him and love him though his music and the sound. We love and view him through his life, music and his family partly because we understood and understand the black American way of life. Some may disagree but I think the sorrow is a bit different in both understanding and reflection.

Saturday was interesting. I ventured to the culture center in Accra. It is the place where local vendors sell the arts and crafts. You can pretty much buy anything you want, ya know.. the typical African type gifts and things. Which for me was nice. I bought a drum, some ear rings for friends, some art work and a big knife they use in the small villages in the north. Sort of like a Machete. Aside being bombarded by the hundreds of merchants in the center to buy from them, I also learned a lot from the guys selling the items. Before I would even come into their shop I asked them about the history, and significance of their items. If you don't ask they won't tell. They see dollar signs. At the end of the shopping I ran into a guy, or I guess I should say he ran into me, who taught me how to play the drum, (which I later bought). I have been playing it ever since and I think I am irritating my roommate but what the hell idc.

It something about authenticity that I really like here. I mean, to get something made for you seems enticing. To that end, I am having some shoes made..some sandals and some nice brown dress shoes. In addition, I am going to have one of the blazers that I bought lined with Kente cloth on the inside. It is subtle because its on the inside but I think it will be hot. I'll also get a pocket square made out of the kente to go into the upper pocket. A new Kente swag.

By the way, I attempted to explain to Joel what swag is. Any help on a good explanation would be much appreciated.

Again culture share is what's up. It's respected. People love Americans over here. I was approached today by one of the embassy guards. He always waves at me when I come into the site in the car. I remember one time he stopped the driver who is Ghanaian and asked to see his badge, in somewhat of a rude and insensitive manner and then after he checked he looks up and smiles at me with a big wave. It was kinda funny. Well, today he stops the car to ask me if I have a Ghanaian friend. He wanted to be my friend and talk to me, which is cool.

Before going home to ply cards, I had dinner with some co workers. I had Ostrich chops, which were good. I also learned about Mango flies, which apparently like to lay eggs in damp clothing, or clothing been sitting around. They say ironing kills the larvae. Anyway, the larva implant itself in your skin and then they hatch coming through your skin. I don't think they are deadly but I can see how unpleasant the experience would be. The good thing about it is that you must have all of your clothing ironed. Sola-mae irons them well for that very reason. its nice to have crisply ironed shirts, under wear and socks.

I learned to play card games from Togo and Ghana. I met some folks from Togo, a francophone country just east of Ghana. Some spoke little English and spoke only ewe and french. I got by with them on the french, but explaining how to play tunk and slap jack in french is tough. They taught me some games as well. Again, the learning curve is so high when you want it to be. It just a matter of seeking it.

God is amazing. Ever since I have been going to Church here, I have been moved. My walk with Christ is most certainly getting stronger but I still have a ways to go. I think being in a foreign place helps since you are always looking to him for understanding. I still have some growing in Christ to go. I guess you noticed with the cursing at the beginning. Look, don't judge me.

Anyway, off to begin another week. My friend Ray McGill is coming to Ghana on Thursday to spend a week here. Our plan is to do the slave castles this weekend. That should be fun. Aside from that and planning for our dear president to visit Ghana my week looks tight.

Living for the weekend. Try it sometimes.

June 26, 2009: Bearing the Grunt

2009-06-26T01:59:00.000-07:00

I awoke this morning to the devastating news that the legend Michael Jackson died due to cardiac arrest. Hearing the news of his, what I would call, untimely death struck a different nerve. "Life is just way too short to really care about petty things." You could turn around tomorrow and have lost everything. This goes along with yesterday's post about focusing on the worries of today rather than trying to push life ahead or keep life back.

More than ever, I have realized that I am beginning not to care if people make simple issues into complexities that stroke their own ego. People seek attention all the time, in a lifetime that is so uncertain. I am glad that I am over here and to some extent glad that this time, as short as it has been, is pushing me ever more to question the conventions we live by in the United States. Yeah sure things could be worse but are they? What really do we in America have to complain about? Bear the grunt. Weather the storm. You have to put up with the rain first to enjoy the rainbow.

MJ will be missed. On the way to work today it was on the radio. They have been playing Thriller all morning. I think MJ's death is a shock around the world. Let's shed our tears and move forward. His music will never die. Not in the US and certainly not in the world. Just when you think Africa is behind, they catch the fire and are in tune much more than we think. Ed McMahon, the star search guy just died on the 23 of June. Tomorrow is not promised, why not live to enjoy today and hope for the best.

Ghanaians have an interesting taste in American things. For example, every Ghanaian knows and loves Commando. Who is commando? Arnold Schwarzenegger the one and only. They watch his movies as children religiously. They also love Rambo, and Jean Claude Van Dam. Even the youngest of kids know who these guys are. I am sure none of them really realize how famous they are in Ghana. And they think President Obama's visit is major.

Today is Friday. The beginning of the weekend. If you want to call me over the weekend my number is country code 233 20 714 5165. Some how that should connect you to my cell phone.

Bear the grunt yall. My grandmother always told me, tough times don't last tough people do.

June 25, 2009: Living in the Moment

2009-06-25T02:05:00.000-07:00

The rainy season has hit hard. The rains pound on the roofs, it feels like the sky is falling. The winds blow with no remorse. You awake to brisk morning dew, the horns of passing cars frantically racing by, and you wonder whether hell came last night. It seems as if the storm comes and goes before you knew it hit. For those of us who sleep lightly, the storm cannot hide.

Last night the storm came in just after 11 and did not stop until the morning. I lay there contemplating the strength of the storm and whether or not it would cause flooding. With the lights off, and me curled up under the covers, besides the annoying bed bugs that I consistently feel crawling on my legs, I feel the most calm. For me, the storm brings peace. It gives me time to think, especially since I cannot sleep. I often get up to look out the window to remind myself really how chaotic the storm is, yet when the curtain closes and I get back in bed, the storm becomes soothing again.

I am not sure if Ghana has to deal with a lot of flooding but certainly the rain pours down. With much of the area dirt like it seems that the water, as it muddies up the earth, prohibits the movement of people, not the case. I am surprised every morning on the way to work at how many people are crowded in the streets. The Ghanaian people live in the moment, they do not press themselves about what happened last night or what will happen tomorrow. They live in the moment and carpe diem. (They seize the day). In America, we concern ourselves with what will and what already happened. We tend to lose sight on what the day has currently brought us. If we use the resources that the day brings we can live each day both by our means and within our means.

The cell phone industry is huge in Ghana. Vodaphone, Tigo, Zain, MTN are the main companies. Everywhere you go you see the marketing. Even in the chantey town areas and the poor areas you see vodaphone in red and white painted across the side of homes, building etc. Ghana's response to cell phones has been remarkable. Phones are very cheap to purchase and no one signs a contract. It is all prepaid. You "top up" your phone by purchasing a phone card. You can buy any amount of calling card you want. The idea is that you call as much as you can pay. This keeps people from borrowing against the future (credit) and getting in debt. As a whole, Ghanaians do not suffer individual debt any where near to where we do in America. There is not really a such thing as credit cards and people rarely use debit cards. So people don't get in debt too easily. It's a cash cow. You buy what you can afford at the moment. Again, living in the moment. You see, living in the moment can really prove beneficial. It keeps us grounded.

Beyond the threat of the storm, yesterday was relaxing, I went and got another $1 hair cut, I watched the soccer game, USA beat the number one ranked Spain 2-0, and I ended the night with a healthy cup of Milo. Cocoa here is amazing. I doubt I will really be able to stomach American hot choc. after leaving Ghana.

I am now at work beginning a new day. Interesting beginning...wow

June 24, 2009: Tradition

2009-06-24T01:18:00.000-07:00

I was born on Wednesday September 19, 1984. Therefore I am Kweku, since Wednesday is the day that God placed breath in my lungs. Kweku means literally Born on Wednesday. Tradition is very important to the Ghanaian people. Holding fast to traditional norms and values are seen in nearly all facets of political, spiritual and social life in Ghana. The Kings system, whereby each township has a King, is a example of a political tradition. Still today there are kings for each city/area. There is a King of Accra, a King of the Ashanti people etc. They get a lot of respect from the inhabitants of their area, although I don't think there is much in the Ghanaian constitution that gives them real substantial power. Yet, social respect and clout goes even further in Ghana.

The more I venture out with questions the more I learn. This is a double learning experience for me. I learn something about Ghana, I learn something about myself. Pretty much, I go blow for blow when it comes to understanding this experience. Each day I commit to learning more about who I am and where I stand, while also learning the very traditions that make Ghana such an amazing country.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit the W.E.B Dubois center here in Accra. In fact, its about 100 yards away from the US embassy. They were having a Bob Marley commemoration event where his daughter added his name to the wall they have at the center. This was was notable blacks in the diaspora who made a mark on the worked whether through music, film, politics etc. Dr. King's son will be there in the fall to place his father's name on the wall.

The euphoria was almost overwhelming. I walked into a mass of people gathered for this occasion. The African Diaspora Forum usually takes the lead in this event. They invite VIPs from the area to offer words of wisdom to the event. There was a live band playing reggae songs, someone did a libation, although he did the libation with Alcohol and a few protested against it. Normally Rastas do not libate with Alcohol. But beyond this flare up, the experience was grounding. I sort of wanted to learn more, without seeming so hungry. I figure seeming so hungry painted the picture that as an African American I did not know enough. It did not help that I had a suit on, while everyone else was wearing traditional wear, so of course I stood out. But I was at work at the time. It was in the middle of the day. Needless to say I felt a bit disconnected from what others were experiencing. To overcompensate I tried best I could to live vicariously through their experience.

i enjoyed Jaloof Rice, Chicken and Kelliweille (kelley-welley which is fried plantain) and a refreshing coke after my experience. The rest of the day was cool. I had dinner with a friend, workout and watched a movie before reading Dan Brown, and then the Bible before bed.

Tradition is a beautiful thing when you understand it and protect it. Tradition is suppose to teach. Where there is no learning there is no tradition. Sometimes we get caught up in tradition and forget to teach. For those out there seeking tradition, seeking knowledge. Knowledge is power. Money can't buy life. RIP Robert Nesta Marley

Tuesday June 23, 2009: On the beat

2009-06-23T01:49:00.000-07:00

The week begins with a refreshing style each time it comes around. The weeks seem to be very long here and the learning curve high. Being in another country so far from home seems to have a different time clock. One that slows down so that you can understand the culture. This may be why CP time here is so much worse than our idea of CP time. Then again, this is where it all started.

My day to day interactions are hit or miss. Yet, at any moments notice I feel I can connect with many of the Ghanaians. Yesterday for lunch I sat down with one of the men who work at the embassy who helped to actually build the embassy. The embassy we are in now was actually built in 2007, so it is fairly new. He talked about his experiences and his hope for the U.S.'s involvement in making Ghana better. His sincerity and love for America was evident in his words. he spoke with such conviction on how education is so very important for the Ghanaian child. He spoke of his own children and how they yearned to learn about the world around them. He told me of his desire to travel. He or his family had never been outside of the Ghana border. His heart remained pure and determined to seek more and show his kids a world he had never seen. It almost felt like he lived in America the way he spoke about how much he loved certain places and customs we practice.

I spent the remainder of the day trying to wrap my mind around what he was saying. "providing opportunity when there is nothing else to provide". This was on beat with what I needed to hear.

Joel and I actually went to the movies at Accra Mall to see the terminator movie. He seemed to really enjoy it. It was his first time ever going to the movies so the concept of being quiet and using inside quiet voices was something new to him. In addition his girl friend called him over and over and over again throughout the entire movie. He did not know how to hit ignore so he would let it ring loud. LOL. Finally I showed him how to send to ignore and keep it quiet. I told him I thought he should have answered it but he said she did not want anything.

Things are getting busy with president Obama visiting Ghana in July. I will be working on his visit and am amped that he is coming. This should be fun and interesting all at the same time.

Saturday June 20, 2009: Trip to Kumasi Day 2

2009-06-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

I slept well that night, with only one trip to the restroom I was more confident that I was beginning to adjust to the food. We wok up that morning around 7am and got ready to head out. We ate a mini breakfast Milo (Ghanaian hot cocoa) toast and juice.

The first stop was to get Kojo a haircut. He needed one. LOL In fact, he was explaining to me how in Ghana men don't always have a lot of hair. Its actually frowned upon. I thought about some of the Ghanaians in the U.S I know that have a lot of hair. We realized his prize barber was not there so we headed out to Bonwire (pronounced Bon-Rie). Bonwire is the home of Kente Cloth. It was about a 30 min drive from Kumasi back up the same road, and then you veer off to another road. I grew more excited to know that I was about to see how it was made and crafted.

We arrived in Bonwire and before I could get out of the car I had a crowd around me. They saw my light face and oh boy did dollars signs ring high. I figure from their eyes I am an intriguing American with money and a wealth of American knowledge. As soon as I got out of the car I was approached and given the Ghanaian hand shake which is a regular pound with a snap of the middle fingers at the end. They asked me my name and where I was from. They all offered to make me a bracelet with my name on it and insisted that I buy one.

We walked around for a second and asked where were the Kente making homes. By the time we walked to the place where some of the kente was made I had a crowd of about 6 people walking with me. I secretly loved the attention but I did not want to over sell myself. LOL. Anyway, we entered into this home where the looms and the wooden type structures were used to sow the cloth. We were greeted by the manager who spoke very good English and gave me a tour. He told me the history, and way they make the Kente. Which depending on whether it was single, double or triple weave could take up to months to make. He showed me a piece that I really wanted. It was an 80 year old silk kente. I had to have it.

We toured the shop for about 30 min before I bought some items. I got some interesting things. I got a few pieces of cloth, some shoes, a bag, and some scarfs. He let me sit and see how they make the cloth, and wrapped me in kente like they do Kings. I appreciated the attention and paid accordingly. I don't mind supporting the local economy. Making Kente is very long, hard work. I did not mind paying for the value of the Kente. it was worth it. The guy gave me some great deals.

We left the there and went to where they stamped the kente with designs. It was a small village about 10 min away. The guy showed us how they stamped the kente and sun dried it. From there we went to the village where they made wood carvings. They are breathtaking. I bought a few items there as well. There were about ten shops aligned next to each other all selling the same items. Perhaps a wood cutters union would do them some good to make a bit more.

It was about noon now and we were all hungry. From what I hear Kumasi makes the best fufu. Of course I had to get some despite my stomach telling me no. I did it anyway. We went to a fufu chop bar and dug it. Check out my video on facebook to see how we did it. It was very good.

After that we went back the the barbershop and all got cuts for under 5 cedis. From there we decided to tour around a bit and then head back to Accra. I did not particularly want to sit on a bus for 6 more hours. So I asked about other options. We decided to take Ford. Ford is a 12 passenger van something like a tro tro but not a beat up. I prayed and we boarded the Ford bus. The driver stepped on the gas, floored it and we flew over all the potholes. As I watched my life pass before my eyes I remembered the young boy's prayer. I closed my eyes and prayed and kept it moving. We only stopped once for people to get out on the side of the road and pee in the grass. lol. We arrived in Accra in 3 hours! I was glad I made it back home in 3 and not 6.

I got home and got a call from Umar who wanted to go out to a club. I was not up to it so we just went out to eat instead. he is a cool dude but one thing that has irritated me a little is that just about every time I have gone out with a few of the Ghanaian guys I am always expected to pay. I understand that I may have a few extra dollars to kill but it gets a bit much. Any suggestions on how I can allay this concern would be much appreciated. I fear saying I don't have the money to pay for everyone but I think I am going to have to or just stop going out with them. They really are nice but I think imma have to make sure people have money and understand that they must spend it if they want to go out.

All in all I had a great weekend. Its Sunday and I am sitting in the office bloggin and checking emails. I think I am going to have to make it out to the office on Sundays just to blog about the weekend.

Happy Father's Day!

Friday June 19, 2009: Trip to Kumasi Day 1

2009-06-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

What was in the box was both interesting and scary all at the same time. When I opened the box I found a small voodoo doll. A girl. An American who lived in the house last must have gotten it by some means and forgot it. Only Americans would have stayed in the residence I am staying in. The doll was small, had a pale face and a neatly knitted black dress on. Her rosy cheeks and strands of blond hair seemed to have been created in the likes of perhaps a European or American citizen traveling to Ghana.

Ghana practices three religions that are known. Christianity, which makes up the vast majority, Muslim, and traditional. Traditional, consists, in some part, of the voodoo type practice. It took me just a minute to catch my breath as I realized what I was holding in my hand. It was a doll. I knew it was voodoo by the small pins placed at certain points on the doll. With no further thought I quickly got rid of it. I took it off of the premises and discarded it. A lot in me wanted to push some pins around to see but I didn't. I easily and safely placed it in the garbage. I just hope that whatever happens to the doll does not reflect on some poor unsuspecting young woman who meant to take this doll with her.

After removing the doll from my house I said a few prayers and moved on.

Friday was the start of a weekend to Kumasi. Kumasi is Ashanti area just about 4 hours north of Accra. The distance is relative, it depends on what you take to get there. It could be 6 hours or 3. We decided to go with a safe bet and take the 6 hour OA bus to Kumasi. After I got off work I hurried home to gather my things and meet Kojo at the OA bus terminal near Kwame N. Circle, or just locally referred to as circle. When we pulled off the highway I realized we were entering a market place type area. The red earth from the hustle and bustle of the merchants and travelers made it tough to get a glimpse of what was going on in the area. All I could see were people selling, buying, and moving. We drove through the market for about 10 min before I got to the area where the buses were located. I got out of the car and made my way to the bus that I thought went to Kumasi. Come to find out all of them did. But there were no times, the bus left when it was full.

I waited there for kojo to arrive. I waited for nearly 30 min until I finally saw him coming. We paid 10 cedis and boarded the bus; although no one ever asked for our ticket or anything. I have come to realize that the people in Ghana do not worry so much about getting 'got' by someone. People are always watching! Even when you think they are not. We bought some snacks and boarded the bus to Kumasi. As we were pulling out, a young boy about 15 years old stood up and began to sing Christian songs. After he sang he began to pray. I have never in my life heard someone pray so beautifully, so eloquently, and so spiritually. He moved everyone on that bus. If you did not believe in Christ, you did after he prayed. I played that prayer in mind mind over and over again. I had been covered completely. God was on that bus.

Three hours into the 6 hour trip they played a Ghanaian movie in Twi. I tried to understand but failed. Everyone was laughing at the movie but me because I could not understand mostly anything. The few words I did recognize were actually English words said with a Ghanaian accent. I just did not know it.

I did not eat before i left because the buses do not have restrooms. Had I eaten a meal I may have had to go to the restroom, and that would have been a problem. We stopped once on the way to Kumasi at a rest stop. There is only one road from south Ghana to north. The road is paved at some places and all holes and dirt at others.

As I sat there I took note of the beautiful Ghanaian countryside. We passed villages, hamlets, homes, markets etc. It was beautiful. Once you go outside Accra you begin to see some of the country side and the natural Ghanaian beauty. There were no starving kids, riots, sick and dead or anything that often American media shows us of Africa. There was life. There was an abundance of happiness. The people made their way. They were content at how they lived and did not bother others. They grew their own foods, and fetched their own water. Life will find a way. Sitting back watching how content these people were reminds me so much of how we take things for granted in America. I relived moments in my past where I thought about times where I was selfish and unappreciative. My daydreaming turned in a spiritual high. I began to pray that God would grant me better understanding of why it is important to cherish what you have.

We got to Kumasi around 9pm and went to Kojo's parents house. We were greeted by Kojo's sister's boyfriend who was excited we were there. He was more than willing to ensure that each moment I spent in his presence was a good one. I still cannot get over the amount of love you receive automatically from Ghanaians.

After we talked for a minute we went out to Vienna City to eat. This was a pool hall/restaurant/bar. It was a cool place. They played 90s hip hop the whole night. After we ate we decided not to go out but to head home and sleep. We wanted to get a very early start in the morning.

June 19, 2009: Onward and Upward

2009-06-19T03:03:00.000-07:00

I was scared awake this morning. I dreamt that my house was being raided by thieves who demanded that we shut off all the air conditioning and come out of our rooms with our hands up. The voices of the culprits did not sound like Ghanaians and they kept yelling that all the Americans in the house shut off all the air conditioning units and come out now. I imagined the end for me. I wondered whether or not I would live to see tomorrow. In my dream I jumped up and locked the door to my room and searched for the nearest phone. I called post one marine squad but could not get an answer. I thought to myself who would protect me? Who is set to defend the well-being of U.S citizens abroad. Then I thought again, and that is what my job is. the U.S. state dept's main mission is to protect Americans abroad. Some job I was doing.

I awoke in a sweat thinking that I had just gone on a wild ride. It was interesting that I awoke to the humming of my air conditioning and the birds peacefully chirping outside my window. What a night!

Yesterday was quite funny. After work I went for a swim and a jog on the embassy grounds. I figure if lifting was making me too sore I would focus on Cardio for now and get my stamina back. It proved to be very relaxing. Thursdays are the days when Sola-mae comes and does my laundry, cleaning and ironing. At first, as you all know, I was hesitant on having her work for me because of this idea of servitude, but now I am happy she came and I was able to pay her for her services.

All of my laundry had been done, ironed and neatly folded. My dress shirts were ironed and hung nicely in the closet. My socks had been matched and placed, my underwear was folded, all of my tee-shirts and collared shirts were also pressed and crisply folded. She washed my sheets, which I was glad of because I think I had bed bugs (for real). In essence, she was well worth the money I gave her and she was more than excited to help. I could get used to not having to do laundry and ironing. I pay her $20 Cedis a week which is like 14 USD. According to other Ghanaians that is a good price.

After fixing myself what seemed like a Survivor type dinner which consisted of nutella like spread on wheat bread, plantain chips and two grilled cheese sandwiches, I headed out for my daily twi lesson with Joel. We did not do much Twi at all, we spent the time talking about life. He asked me about African American history and what Alpha Phi Alpha was (since I was wearing a shirt), and I asked him about some of Ghana's rich history with its independence. I also asked the driver about Ghana's history and that opened up a long conversation. He was very passionate about Ghana's history. After we spoke about those things Joel told me about his infatuation with the State of Texas. His life long dream is to visit Texas. He loves everything about Texas from the country music, western wear and the Howdy Yall!

He said he had never spoken to anyone from Texas or ever seen anyone from Texas. I told him that I would change that. I called two of my friends and my cousin who live in Texas and let Joel speak to them. He nearly had an orgasm over the phone talking to my fellow Texans. He wanted to know everything under the sun about Texas. My friends were a little weirded out by the request but they enjoyed the conversation. Joel said that speaking to someone from Texas made yesterday the best day of his life. Literally, and he was not kidding. I am having my cousin ship him some Texas souvenirs. He told me this morning before he left that he plans to go home and dream about Texas after having spoke with someone from there.

What a day it has been. I am preparing to head to Kumasi, which is another major city north of Accra. I plan to buy Kente cloth and some other things too. As I was packing my bags last night I noticed a small box underneath my bed. I had not noticed it there before. I went down to pick it up and realized how very heavy it was. It was an old brown box the size of a note card, but had the weight of a small 5lb weight. I was hesitant on opening it because it was not mine, but I said what the hell its in my room so why not. I opened the box and America you will never guess what I found........

June 18, 2009: Highs and Lows

2009-06-18T01:19:00.000-07:00

Take a deep breath and ease your mind. It's the Ghanaian way of dealing with stress. It makes sense. You simply relax before you begin to grow angry or sad at the current situations. I have now officially been here a week. It seems more like a month right? And in one week I have learned so much already from being here. Think about what ten weeks will do for a person.

The political environment in Ghana is interesting yet not surprising at all. The turn over of power has really changed some things about the country. For the last four years the country has been run by what is equivalent to our conservative party and now the power has changed into the hands of the democrats. I am anxious to see how all this plays out.

Yesterday was cool. I got home around 545 from work and realized that in order to have my laundry done by the house help I needed to go and get laundry detergent. At the same time I figured I would go ahead and get a new bag as well. The one that I came over with ripped when I was getting my stuff from baggage claim. I walked out to the market area and attempted to buy a bag and found myself haggling with the merchant on a good price. he was trying to sell me a duffel bag for $35 cedi. I know better than that. So I said Ehhh E-Doa- Sung ( which is twi for that is too much, although I am sure this is not the correct spelling). I finally got him down to 20 cedi which is like 14 dollars.

On the way back I noticed a barbershop just about 200 yards away from my house. I walked up to the guy and asked him how much for a shape up and he told me 1 cedi 50 peswas. Which is like $1 USD. WOW!!! i can get a shape up in Ghana for a dollar! If I wanted a haircut it would have been 3 USD. For my 1 cedi and 50 peswas I got a nice shape-up, a facial scrub and a smile. I will be fresh the entire time I am here. I will go to this place at least twice a week. This made me happy after the earlier incident of still being over charged for my bag. But ce la vie.

I had another Twi lesson last night. This time I learned some bad words. Although I wont use them because apparently they are really bad ones. The community here appreciates when Americans learn Twi. It really goes a very long way. So much so that everyone wants your phone number. Oh boy! Note..if you give out your phone number in Ghana people will call you non stop. Its crazy. lol but its cool.

The down side is that I am still in the bathroom frequently. I figure by the end of the weekend my body should have been adjusted right? I hope so. I think I have been to the bathroom more in this past week than I have this entire year! Yikes. Word of caution to those traveling abroad...bring medicine. I am still sore from working out. Today I most likely will swim for about an hour to be both refreshed and conditioned.

peace out

Tuesday June 16: New Ways Same days

2009-06-17T01:45:00.000-07:00

There is so much to learn in such a small time. Ten weeks seemed like a lot in the beginning but after spending a week here it seems that I am pressed for time to really get out and have the "experience". I guess I would know more about what that was once I am able to really figure out what I want to do.

So far I have been able to meet a lot of great people, travel across Accra, dine on Ghanaian cuisine and showboat my Twi skills. Essentially, I have been doing everything that time permits me to do. But each night I go to sleep, before I read my bible I think about the events that happened in the day and I ask "did I get the experience or did I live the experience?" Living the experience, for me, means submerging myself within the moment, grasping the intricacies of the time, and connecting with the memories so that they are just as vivid each time you think of them. Getting the experience just simply means that I did it and now it is done. I am certain that I have done a bit of both.

After work yesterday I decided to get back into my summer work-out routine. This consists of running and lifting. Beginning the routine after such a long hiatus hurts! I awoke this morning to pain in my arms, back and legs. I wont blame it on the Malaria pills this time. I also played a little basketball yesterday too. Some Aussies, and Russians were playing so I decided to play one pick up game before heading home. I played one game and after my team lost, I decided to wait around for another game, however the bugs in the evening were a nightmare. They seemed to all swarm around your legs and arms sucking at anything piece of skin they could grasp. After swatting for what felt like an hour I finally gave up and left.

I arrived home and changed before my daily Twi lesson with Joel. This lesson lasted for about an hour. I got down basic phrases and how to say them. Things, I suppose, will help to get me by for now. Each day I have a goal of learning 5 new phrases or words that I can put together to make phrase. The interesting thing about Twi is that there is not really a past tense way of saying things. I suppose it makes it easier to learn, but harder to really communicate your activity.

I am still trying to adjust to the foods enough to stay out of the bathroom. It is pretty embarrassing at work when I have to hurry out of a meeting to go to the bathroom. This may be more information than you wanted but hey, I'm writing this! I don't think they have Pepto Bismal (sp) but eating fruits and drinking healthy juices should help.

Well, off to work for yet another day. Afterwards I plan to hit the market to get some small items and some bags.

peace from way east

Monday June 16, Rain and Pain

2009-06-16T01:03:00.000-07:00

The rainy season is unpredictable. You are never quite sure when it will begin to rain because for most of the day the sun is beaming on your head and the wind swiftly races past your face.

Last night was tough. As the rain poured over the roof top and the wind howled amid the trees I sat there thinking how much I would really like to just sleep. The wind bumped against the glass, the noises made by the old house and the quaint roar of the distant thunder made for quite the symphony. Added with having taken a Malaria pill a few hours before AND eaten some Jaloff Rice and Chicken made in a local restaurant the bathroom and the window is where I spent my night.

The day of was simple. The monotony of work will not provide any exciting stories or adventures, partly because I cannot tell all, and partly because I am still learning it all. Working for the USG can be exciting at times when you work on the ground within the communities and you are tasked with learning a great deal about a particular concern for the political environment or the economy.

I spoke with Kojo again today. He and I have plans on visiting Kumasi this weekend. He is from Kumasi, so this should be a trip to remember. The bus will take about 4 hours, from what he said, to get there. He plans to show me the cultural sites as well as where they make Kente Cloth.

Today it is still raining. The Ghanaians are in much need of rain, so this time of the year is refreshing. I suppose the rain and pain is only shared by me, as the Ghanaians find much joy in the peaceful bliss the rain brings with it.

Until Tomorrow.

Sunday June 14, The Good News

2009-06-15T01:19:00.001-07:00

Sunday June 14, 2009

I am now fully able to understand why Ghana is so precious. The people here are kind. I say kind because I refer to s deep soulful beautiful disposition not just simply a way to say nice. The inward joy the Ghanaians share despite their often tough and tight economic environments really push you to think differently about how in America we have so much yet we complain so much more. I guess happiness is a normal good. The more money you have the more happy you want to consume.

Today I attended a Ghanaian church. It was Pentecostal. The name of the Church was Lighthouse International. I attended with my friend Kojo. We arrived quite late, yet we were just in time to get the message and offer a donation. The pastor spoke from Numbers and spoke about how the people, despite their issues in the wilderness remained loyal. This did not mean that they did not complain, but the people remained loyal to God’s will. He used this to speak of how the Ghanaian people should be. Or in general all people should be. He said that even the poorest of Ghanaians remain loyal to kindness. Loyal to being helpful.

The church experience was very similar to my own from home. He often went back and forth from Twi to English. Some jokes I got while other of course went over my head. Kojo, has been invited by another friend of his who was trying to get him active within the church. The congregation was mostly young people fired up for God. After church, I spoke with the pastor’s assistant and he took down my information. We then went to an all male youth meeting where we talked about doing some activities together. Many were amazed that I was American. They had many questions for me. I also assumed, and perhaps I should not have, that since I was American it was expected that I donate at each offering. The pastor took up three offerings, I gave to two of them. I think I was pushed to give more so by perception than actually by desire to give to God. I’ll pray that mindset changes as to ensure that I give as God asks me and not because of a cultural assumption.

After church I came back home and slept. For some reason I have been feeling more tired than normal. So I slept for about two hours today. Afterwards I awoke to open the door for Joel, the security guard who watches the house from 6pm-6am each day except for Mondays. Joel is a really cool guy. He and I spoke for hours today and shared things about each of our countries. He is a 23 year old Ghanaian and loves American country music, watching Oprah and watching days of our lives. He yearns to visit Texas someday to hear more country music. He has also said that each evening he would teach me Twi. So in the evenings when I come home and he is here he and I will talk Twi and he will teach me. Free Twi lessons! I most likely will give him something for his help. Maybe I will send him some country music since he loves it so much.

The night ended refreshing. I can smell the peace in Ghana. It pushes me to venture out, connect with people more and develop my sense of cultural adaptation. Talking with Joel tonight was indeed a highlight. The simple moments count the most, they allow you to inherit the beauty of home, the essence of true soul and the belief that people are inherently kind, even when they have nothing more than that to offer.

Good day.

Saturday June 13, Trip with a fellow Cornellian

2009-06-15T01:18:00.000-07:00

I got very little sleep last night. It was not because of partying for once but I think my sleep pattern is still off. It took me less time to get acquainted with France than here. I awoke this morning a little upset that I had not gotten enough sleep. I knew today I wanted to get out and about and see the town a bit more. The scary thing for me was that I awoke still to no phone. My housemate and I went to the Accra Mall earlier today to get a cheap Vodaphone. Vodaphone, in my opinion is a cheap knock off to verizon in the states. Besides the brand name the other big difference is that Verizon actually works. Vodaphone prides itself of being Africa’s major cell phone contributor. “The network that works!” However, it did very little for me in terms of working. MTN, another rival network says “The network that actually works” apparently the rivalry does not stay clandestine. It is out right. In any case I got a 45 Cedi phone and put about 150 min on the phone which is like 7 USD. Not bad. After I got the phone and set it up, the phone would not take calls nor would it dial any out. I stayed on the phone with the vodaphone people, all they could do for me was tell me to cut off my caller ID. I don’t know why but that was the panacea for all phone issues.

By the time I got off the phone with them I was fed up and wanted a person to person interaction. I went down to the vodaphone store and vowed not to leave until I got a working phone. The customer service rep did something and fixed it. Within about 10 min it broke again.

The second time it did this I was on my way to Ghana University in Lagon. I was going to meet a friend who went to Cornell her name was Adwoa. I took a cab to go and meet her at Ghana University. When I got there I had to ask two people if I could use their phone to find her. Adwoa was getting her hair done in the bush market within the University. After her hair was done we went to the mall to replace the phone chip. Come to find out only a MTN sim card would work in a vodaphone phone. How bizarre. Anyway I got the phone squared away. After Adwoa and I went to pick up her friend. We all went out to a West African Restaurant in Labone. It was delicious.

Picture a wooden deck with hanging lights wrapped in string, a cool summer breeze shifting through the wooden hand carven chairs, with florescent lights. There I had omo-tuo with peppey.

After a lovely meal we came back and parted ways. It was yet another day to explore Accra. I am glad that I did not take that trip to Cape Coast. I would have missed out on getting to know Accra.

On another, final note, Umar the friend that I met wants me to go with him at 6am in the morning to the beach. The beach at 6am! Not to let him down, I hurriedly said yes. It’s 10 pm and now I regret saying yes. But just recently I received a call from a friend of a fraternity brother, Kojo. He plans on taking me to church tomorrow morning.

I look forward to the day. Perhaps after, Umar and I will go to the beach, he wants to show me beautiful Ghanaian women. I am getting a great feel here in Ghana so far and this was only one weekend.

Cheerio!

Friday June 12 Trip to Labone

2009-06-15T01:17:00.000-07:00

Friday June 12, 2009 began one way and ended another. I now realize the beauty of Africa, the soul she speaks of and the humility she desires. Mother Africa, is full of surprises and presents a spectrum of experiences.

After work on Friday, I got home to find that the gate outside of my place would not open. The driver had long gone and I stood there looking as if I was trying to break into my own place. Luckily Sula-mae stays around during the day to watch the premises, so she quickly came to unlock the door. Apparently, another housemate of mine mentioned something about the door being locked and they came and just changed the lock all together. After I got in and undressed to put on more comfortable clothing I decided to make a trip to the grocery store before I was suppose to meet up with Umar at 2:30pm. Sula-mae insists on walking with me to store, which was about a 10-15 min walk from my residence. Instead of showing me directions she would much rather walk with me and show me.

As I am walking I notice the streets are filled with merchants selling items. The reason being was that if people did not have time to stop by the store one could drive and buy items on the street. We walked through Osu, where they buried the late chiefs of Accra. The imagery was spectacular, the merchants stands were all built by laborers and many of them worked around the clock selling items they have cooked or crafted.

I arrived at the store Koala, which reminds me of a Safeway from DC. Sula-mae and I walk around the store trying to find food items that would make for quick meals, seeing as how I did not cook Ghanaian foods. I told her my request was that I only buy goods made by local businesses or Ghanaians. I did not want imported items. I got some peanut butter like spread, bread, cereal, plantain chips, milk, eggs, cheese and a few other basic things. It all came out to 54 GH Cedis 34 Pesewas, which is like 30 USD. On the way out Sula-mae insisted on carrying all of the groceries. The bags were larger than she was, so of course that did not happen.

The walk back home was much slower of course since we were carrying groceries. Umar called me on my way home asking me where I was. I told him that we were meeting at 2:30pm and it was only 2pm. He says ok. Within 5 min he calls again asking me where I was and I said I was home and about to walk out of the door to meet him and his friends. So for the next 15 min he called asking me if I was near. I finally made it to where I was suppose to meet him and his friends. It was a place called Frankie’s in Osu. The place had some great drinks, ice cream and was a spot frequented by many young Ghanaians. I met two of Umar’s friends Sam or (yaw), and I forget the other friend. We had two beers and then ventured out to get food. They were excited to know that I wanted to eat authentic Ghanaian food. So they took me, by cab about 15 min outside of the city to Ebony to eat. I walk into the place to see women sitting on the grounds with large pots cutting up raw meet and placing them into the pots. I knew then that I was getting down home Ghanaian food. The kitchen area was outside. We sat down in the dining area and Sam insisted on having another beer. The other guy and Umar called him a drunkard. They asked me to tell them about how things have been in Ghana. They were overly concerned with my stay so far. So much so that they asked me that continuously throughout the day. Every 10 min or so, Sam would ask me if I was ok. In addition they all tried to teach me Twi words, especially about good looking Ghanaian women. They asked me which woman I wanted to take home with me. 

They asked me what I wanted to eat and I told them that I wanted a Ghanaian dish. Of course I knew that was what I was getting. So they wanted me to try Banku. Banku is a traditional dish served with a dough/yeast type dipping bread and a soup like dip with bush meat and tilapia. The bush meat was just that, meat from the bush. You eat Banku with your hands by taking a piece of the dough with your hands and dipping it into the meat sauce. I began by dipping with my left hand and quickly was told not to use my left hand to eat. I told them I was left handed but that did not matter. Before we ate like this I pulled out some Purrell that I had in my bag and shared with them the American custom of using purrell instead of going to wash hands. I told them it killed 99.9% of germs. They did not believe me at first. Also, before we ate they asked me to pray. I did not know which at the table was Muslim or Christian so I hesitated on praying. They insisted that the guest pray. I simply prayed to God, thanking him for this great meal, great friends and great experience in Ghana. After that I dug in.

The Banku was amazing. I began eating the meal by chewing. They stopped me from chewing and told me to swallow the banku whole. It was not meant to savor, but simply to fill your stomach. So I took a piece and swallowed it whole. They watched me the entire time eating to make sure that I did not chew. Once I got a piece too big and chewed and they laughed at me.

After dinner we walked around Sam’s area where many of his friends lived. The area was not quite a slum but it had the resemblance of a poor shack type neighborhood where many of the houses joined together. Many people lived bunched together. This area was called Ebony. The people were friendly and the scenery was Africa. I think it served me well to leave the hustle and bustle of Accra and check out the outskirts.

We approached many vendors who knew Sam. Sam loved being in front of the camera. He wanted a picture with his friends and family at every moments notice. All along they had been teaching me Twi words, so when we came upon a new group of people they wanted to show me off to their Ghanaian family and friends. Every time I said something everyone smiled and laughed at me. “The Oboruni can speak good Twi”. We approached a group of young children playing. I kicked myself because I forgot the candy and such that I brought to give away to the kids. In any case they enjoyed the camera and wanted to take picture after picture. Sam was right there with them. After, they said “Oboruni thank you”. After the experience with the kids we walked around for a bit more until we came back to a main highway, they wanted me to take a tro tro. The tro tros are very dangerous. They often crash on the sides of the road, overturn with people in them or hit other cars. When I say often I mean often. They are quite the adventure for anyone wanting to ride. One time, Umar tells me, he saw a tro tro run off the road and hit a pole. The nearly 50 people inside just simply all walk out as if nothing happened. The driver gets out and walks away as well. He also told me that one time the tro tro hit a sheep and knocked it into the sewers (which are open all around the city). He said they left the sheep in the sewer and said someone will find it.

Needless to say we did not take a tro tro. We took a cab back to osu where I stay. I found out that Umar lives about 5 min from me. He took me to his room and let me borrow a copy of “My Only Love Africa: Movies Collection”. Such movies were Django, Last men of Jerusalem, The snake girl, the begotten etc. I plan to watch them soon.

They wanted to take me to a club tonight. But when I got home I found that I had lost my phone in one of the Taxis. I have to get another phone tomorrow from the store. I had to call Umar and tell him that I lost my phone. He was shocked and asked me if someone had stolen it. We did not go out at all. Instead I went to a pizza place down the street. On the way back to the car a young boy offered me a gift. It was a necklace. It was sort of an investment hoping that I would return and buy one later. I told him that I would. He did not offer such to the other guys with me, they were white. He called me brother. I do plan to buy one when I go back that way.

I ended the night writing this blog and getting some much needed rest. I hope to begin the day by getting a phone and going to a Ghanaian funeral. The day has been both rewarding, and inspirational. My mind has been saturated with Ghana for one day but yet it empties overnight when I think of there being so much more to learn and see. This was my Friday in Ebony. The land of dark rich soil, dark happy people, and an experience of a lifetime. This is what I signed up for.

Mekrawo!

TGIF

2009-06-12T01:12:00.000-07:00

Sola-mae (which is the hired househelp) called me master this morning. I grew upset and told her never to say that to me again. She is a Ghanaian native hired to help do laundry, ironing, cleaning and washing the foods. While I did not yell at her, i grew very upset because the idea of having someone the age of my mother, a beautiful Ghanaian woman call me master is appalling. Yet I do understand how this has been the case for so many years. I still will not allow her to call me that. In fact, I have tried to be more respectful to her by learning Twi (which I am learning fast).

Last night I went out with my roommates. We went to an Irish pub down the street. This was def. not Ghana. I felt like I was back at home in the states. Needless to say I may not go back until I have some kind of craving for America. Right now I am wanting the Ghana experience. I did however meet some guys who are teaching in one of the local schools. One guy actually stayed where I live in Ga one summer. What a small world it is. I found out that they are taking a trip today at 3pm to Cape Coast to visit the slave castles. They invited me along, since we get half days on fridays. I may or may not go depending on whether Ulmar calls me. He said he would like to show me around Accra today. He is a cool guy I make take him up on the offer and spend the weekend in Accra getting to know the city before I leave out.

The currency exchange here is 1.48 dollars per Ghana Cedi. Not too bad. I plan to change over some of my money today.

This is a beuatiful morning in Accra. The rainy season is here so it rained all last night but I slept well. I awoke this morning to Sola-mae sweeping the walkway outside the house. Oh yeah, I did not realize that there was a security guard from 6pm-6am each day guarding the gate to the house. Wow, talk abouy luxury. I don't quite know how I feel about this but it has been explained to me that the unemployment rate is very high in Ghana so any hand that will help is needed.

I will not have internet access after 6pm each day and on the weekends. I only get the internet at work. So I will blog the weekends on Monday. I have been given a cell phone to use. Once I figure out how to use it I will post it here for anyone wanting to call. Until then be well all.

Today is my official first day at work. So here goes nothing.

laterz

I am home

2009-06-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

I was born again in Ghana today at 8:33am Ghana time. My eyes are fatigued and my mind is telling me to sleep but my heart is full with emotion. I am home. As I walked into the terminal at JFK airport I quickly saw the beauty the Ghanaian people hold. Many of them spoke about Ghana as being their true love.

I boarded the plane with little expectations of what to expect. 10 hours into the 11 hour flight I began to become more emotional. When the captain spoke and said we are making our initial descent into Accra, my heart filled to the brim with excitement and my eyes with tears. Never have I felt so calm. The plane landed with a skid and I braced myself with the idea that I just touched African soil. I gripped my pillow with excitment and shut off my ipod. I wanted to land in thoughtful silence. This silence allowed me time to pray and be spiritually moved.

As I exited the plane I saw nothing but beautiful dark men and women, who looked at me as Oboruni. (the term for whiteman or westerner). I went through customs with ease and walked down the ramp to see the US Gov with a sign that said Justin Davis. After being seated I met a Ghananian 26 year old named Umer. He approached me and asked me about my flight and I told him it was nice. We began to talk and share things with each other. He had never visited the US before but said that he wanted to visit Mississippi. :( I told him that there were of course better places to visit. He taught me some key "twi" words and I shared some stories from home with him.

I showed him some pictures from my camera of what America looked like and he showed me the official currency and told me some things to look out for while here. I brought a large bag of starburst candy so I pulled that out and shared it with him and some of the other men that stood nearby. They welcomed me with arms wide open. As I left the airport, I was quickly bombarded by Ghanaians seeking to take my bags. I did not have Cedis (the official currency) on me to give them so I gave them too candy.

I left the airport and headed to my living space. Needless to say it is a very nice place. I have a rather large room with plenty of closet and dresser space. The kitchen is huge and there are two living rooms. The place is surrounded by a locked gate. I am staying in the OSU part of Accra. Supposedly it is near where some hangout spots are. The house mate Somali greeted me with open arms and showed me around my place. I am sharing the place with a couple other guys.

After I unpacked and dropped my stuff off, I left and went to the US embassy where my office will be for the summer. This too is a very nice place. I met with one of the foreign service nationals, Mike who helped me fix up my computer access. I told him this was the first time I was in Africa. He replied "Well you know you are from here right?". I am home America.

This place is gorgeous. The people here are beautiful, friendly and willing to help. God bless this place and these people. Now I am headed back home to sleep and finish unpacking. Until next time.

Blessings from the motherland!

Anxiety

2009-06-09T22:51:00.000-07:00

It's 2:25am on Wednesday June 10, 2009 and I am sitting in front of my computer with as much energy and excitement as if I just won the lottery. Well, almost. I am trying to do some last minute packing and because of my anxiety I am over packing, overly concerned and over analyzing everything about this experience. With the euphoria racing through my veins I can hardly sleep or even focus enough to end my last night in the US for 10 weeks well.

My mind is going all over the place. What will my emotions come to? When I am boarding the plane from JFK to Accra what will I say? When I land and my feet touch the scorching earth of mother Africa how will I feel? I am so enamored with emotion that I feel like nothing can stop me. I am going to Africa!

A good friend told me to allow my heart felt feelings to pour into my words. My heart is heavy with emotion, my mind is racing with thoughts and my soul is yearning for something new. A calming of sorts.

As I remain in constant prayer tonight I am reminded that my God will be with me. What I face is what he will provide. I really can't think of a better time in my life to take this trip. I need a change, I need a growing agent. What will I be when I return? I grow more excited just knowing that the Justin Davis I recognize when I look in my spiritual mirror will not be the same.

My native land, my cherished jewel my Africa..... here I come.

Pre Ghana- June 9, 2009

2009-06-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

For those who care, I have started a blog about my experiences around traveling to Africa. Today is June 9, one day before I step aboard the 757 that will take me to the motherland. I have been thinking all week long about this experiences. So many unanswered questions, so many thoughts and honestly so many concerns.

I have to be out of my DC place by July 1, which means that I have to be out of this place before I leave for Accra. So far I have packed up all of my stuff for Ghana. I am almost done with packing and cleaning to move out. One of my best friends and roommate will move all of the stuff for me where he goes until I return.

This is also my second week of taking my malaria pills. Last week when I took the first one, I had several dreams that seemed like I was actually there. In one of them I was trapped in a well and could not climb out. I was screaming all day and no one heard me. I was also waist deep in a pool of water with things crawling at my legs. In another one, I was trapped in my room with spiders the size of a baseball glove. They were deadly and there were hundreds. I sat on my bed surrounded by spiders thinking how I was going to get out of here. I woke up then in a cold sweat.

The pills have also had me thinking a lot. A lot about people and how much they mean to me. It has also pushed me to begin to weed people out of my life. Especially those who have turned poison. I don't think this is the drugs but I will use any scapegoat I can at this point. HAHA

In any case, I am ready to board that plane tomorrow morning at 8:20am. Can you believe that they have me going from Dulles, VA to Atlanta, GA then to JFK in NYC before I finally board the plane from JFK to Accra. This is crazy. I will have been on 3 planes. I would have much rather taken a megabus to NYC and caught that plane to avoid the layovers. I board the plane here at 8:20am and arrive in Ghana at 8:30 tomorrow morning.

I will really need to charge my ipod and computer up big time.

Ok folks pray for me. The next blog I do will be from the motherland!

зkyзrз!!!!!