When I first came to Ghana I met a German man. He was living rough with not much money and a drink problem. When asked why he didn’t go home he said that when he wakes in the morning, looks out and sees Africa he feels happy.
I can relate to this. I still feel a sense of wonder and excitement to realise I’m really here, even after 7 years. I sometimes wonder if I’m dreaming as I look around at the familiar streets which, with my distancing gaze, start to take on that unfamiliar appearance of when I first arrived.
Through all the difficulties of being a foreigner and the very real frustrations unique to Ghana, I feel at home and am living the life I want. My foreignness is also an enabler.
My turning away from the UK, I initially interpreted as an act of defiance. I no longer wish to see myself in conflict with my birth place. I hope I have matured enough to see the positive values of the culture I have left behind. Ironically, the negative values I rejected seem to be the ones many Ghanaians wish to embrace! I’ve always found it hard to be a cheer leader and am not able to start now. But my absence of flag waving should not be interpreted in purely negative terms.
I wanted an adventure. I closed my eyes and jumped before I had time to think. Through accident and circumstances I believed Ghana was my future. I’ve not looked back and have no regrets. My dream continues.
Love this post, Graham. Can very much relate to this: “I still feel a sense of wonder and excitement to realise I’m really here, even after 7 years” although its only 4 for me!
Thanks Kajsa. Let’s hope our feelings remain for a long time!
If only more Africans had the opportunity to travel to Western countries and disabuse their minds of the many misconceptions that we Africans unquestioningly imbibe about these countries.
We could see ourselves through new eyes, even appreciate our selves that much more.
Here’s to 7 more years on our amazing and devastating continent.
Well, you are very welcome to stay and enjoy.
Now that you’ve dropped anchor, i’m looking forward to reading posts about work in Ghana and social life in Ghana etc. Nice piece!
I am very happy to hear that you are satisfied living in Ghana.
I like how you feel about your life.
I really like you and enjoy reading your comment all the time.
Since I first found your blog through a comment you left on mine, I’ve followed with interest both because of my own connections with Africa (Malawi and Algeria specifically) and also because I sense that what you value about other cultures is similar to what I value. I dream of moving abroad and I admire the courage of those who’ve done it.
“Ironically, the negative values I rejected seem to be the ones many Ghanaians wish to embrace!”
This reminds me of visiting some of the Scottish islands. People from the south of England move there to escape the rat race, motivated by ideals of friendly community. To me as a visitor these people actually seemed friendlier than the locals! Funny that.
I agree with the Anon comment. It’s easy for Africans – or anyone else – to see the grass on the other side as greener when they’ve never been there. Nice to hear that the grass of Ghana is still green for you after 7 years.
Come on; did you really write this/ Awww, I’m happy for you. Yaaay to all wandering spirits; Ghana is home to you. Nice post!