Sad Goodbyes with hundreds of lessons learned!
As I sit here in Toronto, thinking about all the extraordinarily amazing opportunities I’ve experienced during my time in Ghana, I can’t help but be sure of my future in development being stronger than ever. Before I left for Ghana I had really struggled with where my future was. I wanted to find a way to combine my passion for development with my many other passions!
My experience in Tamale although difficult at times taught me the importance of having passion for whatever it is I decide to do in my career, to be proud and fully endorsing. It taught me the importance of being vocal, remembering where I stand in this world and what I won’t stand for. More importantly my time in Ghana taught me the importance of taking the time to really think through my next steps. It gave me the opportunity to take the time away from that last three years of two jobs and school- feeling as though I was in a never ending tornado. Ghana has re-built my spirit, has reminded me to question inequalities and challenge status quos.
As I sit here in Toronto answering the dreaded “How was Ghana?” question, I find myself realizing how much I really have changed, and as I formulate my thoughts and feeling I continue to struggle with the question. My reverse culture shock was minimal but reminds me of a quote by Nelson Mandela” There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways you yourself have altered”. If I can take anything from my time in Ghana- it’s that it was by far the best decision I have ever made, as it has opened the door to a world of passion I had forgotten about.
I will truly miss the hundreds of women who opened up their homes to me while I documented their stories. I will never forget the hundreds of stories I was privileged to hear of women who with nothing made extraordinary change in not only the lives of their families but their communities. The smiles, heartfelt words through greetings and thanks will forever be in my hearts, it’s these women who have revitalized my passion and I’ll forever be grateful.
So what’s next? I guess time will tell!
I'll miss the Desibas and Antrri's EVERY day!
I'll miss my co-workers who have hearts of gold!
I will miss being called "Yo Yo" by all the kids in my neighbourhood!
