Missing Ghana
Mood:  sad

Needless to say, my heart is heavy thinking about Ghana. I miss it terribly. Most of the time I think about my time there, but today has just been overwhelming. Reading the blogs of current Peace Corps volunteers and trainees took me back to my own memories of being a trainee and finally a volunteer. I can honestly say that it has been the BEST experience of my life.

I remember the day before flying out to Accra wondering what the hell was I getting myself into. I had no idea that I was embarking on one of the most influential learning experiences of my life. I remember after only two days in Accra, not knowing anything or anyone, and having to go out to the crazy capital with two other volunteers on a scavengar hunt. I was scared to death. How the hell are they gonna send me out here on my own for someone to kidnap me and I don't even know where I am or where I'm even going. But, God once again protected me and kept me safe in the crazy Makola market in the city of Accra. Even though I was safe, I still hadn't taken to Ghana yet.

I do remember clearly the day I met my host family after only one week of being in country. My host sister Rita spoke very little English and my Sister Faustina spoke even less. But after meeting them, I felt a little better. And after I moved into their only spare bedroom and started to get to know each other, they became my new family protecting and guiding me in my new community. I miss them and thank them for being that turning point in my experience. Before meeting them, I really didn't know if I would have been able to do two years in the country. I thank God for them and keep in touch with them very often. As far as I know, they've only had one volunteer after me and that person decided to leave early. So I'm still their special volunteer.

I think what I miss most is my social life and the friendliness of the people. No matter where you go, you can strike up a meaninful conversation and enjoy a relaxed social life meeting new people anywhere you go. Life for me was really simple but meaningful and I felt like my work and life made a difference in other's lives... people that I saw frequently.

I really don't know how to put it into words but to sum it up- my heart aches. I wish I could go back for just a day to see my people and enjoy some of the good weather and food...if only for just one day.

I will go back, even if it takes me a couple of years, I will surely go back to Ghana. That's a promise.