August 28, 2022
Just think, I don’t have to go to campus today or think about my agenda for the day, the week or months. My colleague and friend, Dr. Bradford sent me this quote a few weeks ago, “What do You Call a Person Who’s Happy on Monday? RETIRED😂. As I do my meditation this morning, I am so grateful and appreciative of being in sound mind (I think 😊) and good health. God has truly blessed me in more ways than I will ever be able to count.
Well, I am preparing to embark upon my annual journey to the sweet Motherland of Jukwa, Ghana. As usual I am very excited about my trip to Ghana, but for some reason this time I am having some feelings of anxiousness before my departure. Wait a minute! I am hearing this little voice saying, “Do you realize that you have had many life event changes that have occurred over the last year of your life’s journey” and the best is yet to come? Why the anxiety? Okay, I get it!
For the last week, I have packed, unpacked and repacked numerous times so I will travel as light as possible. Well, I don’t think that worked, but I am now ready to rock and roll. My flight is scheduled to depart on Monday, August 29th at 6:45 pm. My next-door neighbor and friend, Karen offered to give me a ride to Dulles on Sunday so I would not be faced with the possibility of traffic delays and pileups on I-95 on Monday. So here we are on Sunday morning pulling out of our driveway at 9:30 am. What a beautiful day! The sun is shining and the journey to Dulles in an amazingly smooth ride with no traffic issues. As we are cruising up 95 we are sharing how blessed we are and the gratitude for our life’s journey. Well, we are now arriving in Herdon, Va. We decided to break bread together before Karen get back on the highway heading for her family home in NY.
Monday, August 29th
It’s now 12:30 pm and time for me to check out of the hotel and get ready to head to the airport. As I am waiting in the lobby for a shuttle for the airport, a gentleman also waiting for the shuttle strikes up a conversation as he is heading to Budapest, Hungary for a two month business trip. His home is actually in Richmond and he grew up in the Short Pump area during the 60’s and 70’s. Interesting conversation about the times that we are in and how people are living in other parts of the world. Having the opportunities and blessings of being able to experience other cultures gives you a totally different worldview.
The shuttle has now arrived and I am on my way to Dulles Airport. We are only 20 minutes from the airport. We are now arriving to the United Airlines check-in area. Unloading my luggage and checking-in is the most stressful time for me during my international travels. Well, I am weighing my luggage and I am 3 lbs. over the 50 lb. limit. Uhhh….. that means I need to reshuffle something around and add something to my carryon baggage. Okay, I got it done and checking in and making sure I have all of my documents, i.e., Passport and Visa, Travel Health Certificate and COVID Vaccination Card. I can’t believe so many people are walking through the airport with no masks on. Well, I have mine on!
OMG, going to the GATE D to board the plane to Ghana and then standing in line to go through customs etc. is quite an ordeal. At least I am getting my walking steps in 😊. Finally at Gate D and it is only 2:30 pm. Well, I am sitting here and people watching and, on my phone, to kill a little time.
Oh my goodness, we just got an announcement that the plane will be delayed for at least an hour because there is a mechanical issue with the AUP. It is being explained that there is an issue with the heating and cooling of the airplane (inside) and the pilot did not feel comfortable taking off with this issue. Can you’ll imagine the look on all the passengers faces when this announcement was made? Yep, now I begin to wonder if this was why I was feeling anxious about this trip. I had never had this feeling before any of my flights previously. Now, you’ll know I am not posting any of my concerns on social media, because there are so many who would see the negative side of anything. It amazes me all the time how so many folks live out of fear who proclaim to have faith in a Supreme Being. Well, my dear friend Dr. Gwen Willis-Darpoh who has a home in Ghana was in touch with me, and reassured me that everything would be fine. She has had this happen to her during her travels back and forth to Ghana. She says to me, be thankful they are fixing the problem before leaving the airport and gave me a scripture to read, “Psalms 121”. That was all I needed and my anxiety and worries dissipated. We are being informed every half hour or less that the mechanics are working on the problem. Finally, it is 9:00 pm and we are now boarding the plane. Okay, we are taxing off and ready for the flight. Phone is going into airplane mode until my arrival in Ghana. I am going to sleep.
Tuesday, August 30th
It’s about 1 hour before landing in Accra and breakfast is being served. It’s not the best, but it is filling the hunger ping. Okkk…. we are descending and we are hitting the tarmac at 11:15 am in Ghanaian time. Praises to our Supreme Being, I am safe and sound. Exiting the airplane and now going through customs. There are so many steps to go through to get through customs, and I am now going through the doors to leave the airport. There is Kwame waiting on me as I am coming through the doors. There is no way I can describe the feelings of being so blissful when my feet touch the grounds of the Motherland. Kwame is quickly securing my luggage while I go to the Exchange Office to exchange US dollars for the Cedi. Tas of today, the exchange rate is 9.95 cedi for one US dollar. This is extremely high compared to when I first came to Ghana in 2017. So, what does this mean? It means that inflation is a havoc everywhere and more so for the developing countries like Ghana. While at the airport, I am also purchasing a sim card for my phone so my cell phone provider will not charge me an arm and a leg for international phone calls.
Okay, we are now in the taxi that will take us to the transportation port in Accra and we will then take a van to Cape Coast, which is normally a 2 – 3-hour journey. We are now on the road to Cape Coast where we will then take a taxi to Jukwa, which will be another 30 – 35 minutes.
We are finally arriving in Jukwa after a total of 4-plus hours. It is Tuesday evening and I have not been in a bed since Sunday night and with the 4-hour time change, I am a walking zombie. The only thing I can do now is get something to eat, take a hot shower and go to bed. I am now checking into the Rainforest Lodge in Jukwa. This was one of the first places that we stayed in when we brought students over on our Faculty-Led Study Abroad Program in 2017. They have done a lot of upgrading and renovations. The hospitality and customer service are amazing. It really makes you forget about all the craziness in the American culture.
I am ordering my favorite Ghanaian dish, tilapia and jollof rice. Oh my, this food is the bomb! Chef Hubert is the Master Chef for the Rainforest Hotel and he goes the extra mile to make sure the ambiance is so enticing and his food taste soooo good. This mojito with fresh mint from the garden is also knock out of the park 😊! Just a little something to help me relax, unwind and sleep tonight. Bro. George, Kwame’s father is joining us for dinner. As always, the conversations with Kwame and his father are so uplifting and inspiring. I am heading back to my room to take a hot shower and go into slumber land. Oh my goodness, there is no hot water. No cold shower tonight. It’s a sponge bath and to bed I go.
Wednesday, August 31st
I am waking up to the rain hitting the roof and sidewalk this morning. It’s still in the rainy season here in Ghana. Surprisingly, the weather is much cooler than in Virginia, but very comfortable and low humidity. Sun peaks out from behind the clouds periodically.
Oh my, it just hit me that this is my last official day as an employee at Virginia State University. What a beautiful and peaceful place to be as I move into this new chapter of my life’s journey. Words again cannot express my gratitude for my Creator and the Supreme Being of this universe for allowing me to live and see this moment and not having one care or worry in this world. The most gratifying feeling that I have is having lived a purposeful life for more than seven decades and I am continuing to fulfill my purpose as I travel on this awesome journey called ‘life’.
Well, it’s breakfast time and I am sitting in the dining area waiting to be served and the beauty around me is astounding. The workers are busy cleaning and beautifying the interior and outside of the hotel. Everyone is so friendly and so accommodating. The Master Chef Hubert is taking the time to come over to greet and welcome me to Ghana. Anyone who knows me, knows that I do not meet a stranger. It’s a wonderful feeling to be shown respect and genuine caring – just because with no expectations of anything in return. Chef Hubert and I are having an amazing conversation about the food in Ghana and how most of their foods prepared at the Rainforest Lodge is directly from the garden. It’s all organic.
Kwame just arrived to pick me up to take me to spend some time with his family. The sky is opening up and the rain is pouring down. Interestingly, these downpours don’t last very long and it rain in intervals. As I am stepping out of the taxi to join the Appiah-Kubi family in their home, I am greeted with lots of love and hugs from Kwame’s sisters, Harriet and Ann, nephew Kofi, his mother CeCe and daughter and my goddaughter, Little Gwennie.
The highlight of this visit is the Libation Ceremony that Bro. George conducted to celebrate my retirement and to give me his blessings as I step into this new life’s chapter. Very moving spiritual experience.
I am now joining the family in the kitchen as they prepare their favorite dish – Fufu. This is not one of my favorite dishes so they prepared some fresh pineapple for me. This fresh pineapple is so delicious and tastes nothing like the pineapples that we buy in the grocery stores. After spending a few hours and fellowship with the family, my hours of lost sleep is catching up with me. It’s now time to head back to the Rainforest Lodge. I am now back at the hotel and the bed is feeling really good.
After a couple hours of napping, I am up and ready for dinner. Well, I think I am going back for that tilapia. What can I say? It is sooo… good. I am staying away from the carbs, and ordering steamed veggies to go along with my tilapia. Even being away from home, I am still trying to eat healthy.
I am on this trip as a representative from Mimosa International Foundation of America, Inc (MIFoA) Therefore, Kwame and I are taking some time this evening to discuss the mission of MIFoA and the current and collaborative projects that we are working on to assist Divine Kids Academy (DKA). Because of DKA increased enrollment, DKA is in the process of building three additional classrooms and repairing damage to the computer lab that was caused by a major flood they had in Jukwa in June of this year. This unfortunate event left families in a devastated state. Families lost their homes, clothing, school uniforms, etc. MIFoA was able to give DKA a small contribution to assist with the classrooms, however there is so much more to be done. MIFoA will be actively campaigning and reaching out to the friends of DKA for contributions so we can continue to help the children and their families in the village.
Thursday, September 1st
OMG! As of today, I am officially retired from VSU. Being here in Ghana has really helped with all the feelings that comes along with separating and terminating relationships that I have built over the years. However, as I enter into this new chapter of my life, I am gaining new and very significant friendship(s) that is making this transition amazingly beautiful.
I am starting my morning with having breakfast and just meditating and reflecting over the years and being grateful for having been provided the opportunity to travel on such a wonderful life’s journey, which has extended beyond my wildest dreams. As I enter this next season of my life, I know the best is yet to come.
Kwame is here to pick me up to visit DKA and meet with the school’s Administrator, Head Master, teachers and students to share and talk about DKA as they celebrate their 10th year Anniversary. Because of the major flood in the village in June, the major festivities that were planned were cancelled.
On our way to DKA, we are stopping to pick up the Chairman of DKA PTA, Bro Kwabena Acheampong. Upon arriving at DKA, we are greeted by Bro. George Appiah-Kubi, Administrator and Principal of DKA, the Head Teacher, Stephen Baidoo. We are meeting in the Head Teacher’s office to discuss the mission of DKA and the progress that they have made over the last 10 years in providing the children in Jukwa an opportunity for a quality education in spite of the challenges they face each day to survive and live in their communities.
We are now finishing up our discussion, the PTA Chairman returns to his place of work and I am staying behind to spend some more time with the Appiah-Kubi family. Harriett, Kwame’s sister prepared lunch for me. The hospitality and love that is always shown to me by this family is so amazing.
Well, it’s time for me to head back to the hotel for some relaxation and to continue journal my experiences here in Jukwa, Ghana.
After taking my nap, I am now ready for dinner, and on my way to the dining area. I am getting so spoiled because everyone here is making me feel so unapologetically like the Queen that I am. Now, my sista’s and brothers don’t hate on me because you are living other people’s dreams and aren’t taking the risks to be you, and unfortunately hindering you from evolving into becoming the Kings and Queens that you were created to be. I learned from a very wise man and my therapist more than 40 years ago, Dr. Charles Christian who told me that “fear will immobilize you so you won’t do anything and don’t allow other people fears, their lack of dreaming and inabilities to take risks hinder you from moving forward on your life’s journey”. In other words, don’t allow anyone to kill your dreams. At that moment I stopped living in fear and I did not allow other people fears dictate to me how to live my life, and I begin to trust and have faith in God to order my steps. I have been taking risks and walking in faith ever since, and I have learned from every life experience and situation that I have had, whether it was considered good or bad. I will not be looking in the rearview mirror saying, I would’ve, should’ve, could’ve, or wished I had, etc. Some of my former students will now understand why I always saw the very best in them and encouraged them to never stop dreaming and to take risks. I also try each day to lead by example by thinking positively and not allowing negativism into my space. Okay, so much for me thinking out aloud.
Dinner is ready. Chef Hubert knocked it out of the ballpark again. I am having calamari and steamed vegetables, along with a drink (non-alcoholic) called alvaro. My, my that taste is sooo good. Awww… and now the bartender is bringing out a special cocktail he made just for me. Ain’t telling you what it is, but it sure is good and I know I will sleep like a baby tonight.
It’s about 9 pm so sleep is calling me.
Friday, September 2, 2022
It is about 5:30 am in Ghana and I am waking up to the crowing of the roosters that are walking around the hotel grounds. This has always been music to my ears. It takes me back to my humble beginnings growing up in the rural community of New Kent County, Va. As I meditate and reflect on this moment, I am hearing the pouring rain on the rooftop. The workers are moving about continuing to go about their daily routine and work chores as if the sun is shining brightly in the skies above with smiles that will light up your world. Well, I am now dressed and ready for breakfast. We are going to the Orange Friday in Cape Coast today. Whereas we celebrate Labor Day in the States, the Orange Friday is celebrated here. This is really an exciting site to see and to be part of it
Back in my hotel room get ready for the day. Kwame just arrived to pick me up so we can start on our journey for the day. Awww…. I just received a surprise call on WhatsApp from a very dear and special friend. It is always so good to know that you are being thought about by very special people in our lives. Again, an opportunity to express gratitude to my Creator and appreciation for special people in my life.
We are now quickly going across the main road to wait on a Tro-Tro for Cape Coast. This is always an adventure for me. So many people are packed on this vehicle like sardines and everyone is so accommodating. My only issue is that I have long legs and it is very uncomfortable for me to sit in such tight spots. Now, Kwame always looks out for Mama Gwen, and he paying for an extra seat so I can turn my legs to the side and be more comfortable.
Before leaving Jukwa we are stopping by the tailor shop and then heading into Cape Coast. Just met with the Master Tailor, Bro Kwabena Acheampong. I am learning so much about the Ghanaian culture and how various trades are taught so young people can acquire the skillsets to obtain jobs in their areas of interest.
We are arriving in Cape Coast and we are now transferring into a taxi so we can go to the Coastal Forest Bureau to exchange money. The current exchange rate is 9.40 cedi to each US dollar. Like across the globe, when the rate of foreign money increases it also affects the buying power of the residents. After taking care of the money transactions, we are back on the streets to catch a cab to a fabric shop suggested by Bro. Acheampong. We met with the owner of the fabric shop, and she made suggestions according to my description of the garment that I want Bro. Acheampong to design for me.
We are now on our way to the Becky Kay Restaurant and Bar for lunch and to watch all the activities and festivities of the Orange Friday taking place in the streets. The energy and music in the streets are so electrifying. Everyone is dancing from toddlers to the elders. After relaxing and enjoying the moment, we are ready to head back to Jukwa to deliver the fabric to Bro. Acheampong so he will have the garments completed and ready by Thursday of next week.
We are now on the road and arriving at Bro. Acheampong tailor shop to drop of the fabric and our next stop is Rainforest Hotel. It’s been a long, but fun and productive day.
Saturday, September 3rd
Again, I am waking up to the sounds of roosters crowing and the workers beginning their tasks for the day. As I sit here meditating and getting in touch with the beauty in the creation of this universe, peace and tranquility radiate throughout my total being. While here in Jukwa Ghana, I do not have hundreds of TV stations to flip through to keep my mind boggled with the negative news and propaganda that we absorb in our minds and hearts in the Western world. Here in Jukwa, we only have access to two TV stations, which are an African movie station and a sports station that airs the soccer games. I would say 90% of the time we don’t have good internet connection to the outside world. So, what do you do? Or should I say, what am I doing with my time? I spend a lot of my time just being in a quiet zone and focusing on the many things that I have to be so grateful for as I look around my surroundings. The people here always seem so happy and full of joy when many times they don’t know where they will be getting their next meal.
Today will be another exciting and interesting day. The Appiah-Kubi family and I will be attending the Oguaa Fetu Afahye Festival in Cape Coast. the Oguaa Fetu Afahye is a festival celebrated on the first Saturday of September by the people of Oguaa or Cape Coast Traditional Area. It is named after the 17thCentury Fetu or Effutu kingdom located some 19 kilometers inland of Paramount chief’s yam festival and is observed in the form of offering mashed yams to the gods.
People from all over the region come into town to celebrate this grand occasion. The dignitaries show up in their cultural attire dancing and celebrating.
I am now eating breakfast and enjoying the moment with peace, quietness and serenity while waiting on Kwame to meet up with me. The sky is so beautiful with the bright sun shining through the clouds. Kwame is running a little later than usual in meeting up with me. As I am typing up my notes, he is calling me to tell me that he is on the way. He had a ‘baby stomach” this morning and he had to delay meeting up with me. Now, some of you may be thinking, “what is a baby” stomach”? Well, that baby stomach is actually our stomachs reacting to something we ate and it’s “diarrhea”. He wasn’t the only one suffering from a “baby stomach”. I woke up early in the morning with stomach pains and it was my alarm that my “baby stomach” was about to go through some uncomfortable changes. Fortunately, I had the prescription medication on hand that I got from my PCP before leaving the States. Within a couple hours I was okay. Now, why did this happen? Kwame and I ate a local restaurant in Cape Coast and we are almost sure that we picked up the bacteria that causes this problem.
It’s around 11:30 am and Kwame is arriving with his usual happy smile. We are packing up to wait for the Tro-Tro for our ride to Cape Coast. I love taking this ride into town. As I am riding down the highway to Cape Coast I am watching and observing the people going about their business and children playing in their yards. I can’t begin discuss all of the thoughts that go through my head and I observe these interactions among the people in the villages along the highway. Whatever goes on in the global world, I know for sure the African people will survive. They are not caught up in the ‘got to have it’ yesterday mindset. They live in the moment to survive each day. We have been so brainwashed in the Western world and as we see the hate and oppression among the supposed to be civilized Western world and the crumbling state of democracy, we as a people must wake up. I am thinking out aloud again.
We are arriving in Cape Coast and now transferring to the taxi to take up to the Fetu Afahye Festival site. OMG! We are getting a front row seat. This time I don’t mind being the gray headed old lady, because elders are respected in the African countries. The security guard says to me, “Come Momme, Come” and points me to a front row seat. It doesn’t get any better than this. This is a site to be seen! The colorfulness and the excitement of seeing folks showing so much love. Here in Ghana, I have no fear of being in this crowd and someone carrying a weapon and shooting innocent people. Oh yes, the police security is amazing at this event! Actually, I am feeling so much safer than being any place in the United States. Maybe the police and security are so obvious because the President of Ghana will be in attendance in this event. Also, because of COVID this is the first time in two years since this event has been held.
The President of Ghana is arriving and the crowd is standing and waving the Ghanaian flag. Seeing the excitement and being so close to the Presidents entourage and security as they are passing by where I am standing is amazing. The various Asafo companies (traditional soldiers) dressed in their traditional garments are dancing to the music at the various beats of the drums is so captivating emotionally and spiritually.
We are now leaving before the end of the event to get ahead of the crowd. Also, Little Kofi and Little Gwennie are getting a little tired and irritable. Kwame is flagging down a taxi and we are heading to Jukwa. On our way to Jukwa we are stopping at a local beach resort to get something to eat. This is not a good experience. Although it is a large resort and many people are here, the service is awful. We will not frequent this place again to eat. However, the beach scenery is nice and a great place just to sit on the beach and watch the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Ahhh… we are back in Jukwa, and we arriving at the Rainforest Lodge and I can’t wait to get inside and take a hot shower and go to bed. Lights Out!!!
Sunday, September 4th
As I wake up this morning after very restful night, I am meditating and reflecting on the awesome wonders of the Motherland. Everything to sustain life is here on this continent of Africa. All of it’s natural and organic, i.e., minerals, fruits, vegetables, livestock, etc. We are killing ourselves in America with synthetic everything. Elijah Muhammad’s book, “How to Eat to Live and Not Live to Eat” was written more than 40 years ago and it actually speaks to the nature of the African diet. We are what we eat. As I talk with Chef Hubert and the Bartender Emmanuel, I am being so enlightened about the properties of foods and drinks that enhances our total well-being physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Since it is Sunday, I am eating a late morning breakfast that includes a Spanish Omelet, steamed vegetables and coffee. Emmanuel is also making a “Ginger Pick Me Up” energy drink for me that gives you pep in your step. Oh, my goodness, it is the bomb! Kwame is now joining me and we are sitting at the poolside enjoying the beauty sun and scenery as I am recapping the week and writing for my Blog page. However, I remind him that I was putting everything aside so I could listen to Pastor Howard-John Westley from Alfred Street Baptist Church this morning because I know he will have a powerful message after visiting Ghana last week.
Well, it’s now 12:00 pm in Ghana and 8:00 am in the States. I am tuning into ASBC on YouTube here in Ghana. Dr. Westley never disappoint. His message today is “Finding God in a Foreign Land”. If anyone has been following me on my blogs, it is truly a confirmation of everything I have shared about my experiences in the Motherland, particularly Ghana. If you don’t believe me, listen for yourself. Before you start listening, be prepared for the truth. (401) “Finding God In A Foreign Land”, Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley – YouTube.
Alfred Street Baptist Church, Alexandria Virginia
Just received a call from a dear friend sharing with me Dr. Wesley’s sermon this morning. To their surprise, I shared that I also watched it along with Kwame and we are still in awe.
Today is a rest day and I am not doing anything else except enjoying the beauty and blessings of my Creator.
Monday, September 5th
Waking up again to another rainy day, but that does not stop anything from moving in Ghana as scheduled. On this day, we are going to the Elmina Castle and the One Africa Health and Wellness Resort in Cape Coast.
Although I have been on the grounds of the Elmina Castle two or three times, I have not actually taken the tour. Visiting the dungeons where our ancestors were held captive reminds me of my blessings and it allows my spirit to express gratitude to those who paved the way for me as I travel on my life’s journey.
After leaving the Elmina Castle, Kwame and I are stopping at the One Africa to have our lunch. Nana Asafohene Kufo II, the Chef and co-owner greets us and welcomes me back home. I have met and talked with Nana during several of my visits to One Africa. This man is a walking historian and spiritual leader who is a man with phenomenal breadth of knowledge and wisdom. After talking with him briefly, he is agreeing to allow me to interview him on tomorrow. So, Kwame and I will be returning to interview Nana so I will be able to share with my blog followers.
We are now standing on the side of the highway waiting on a taxi going in the direction of the town of Cape Coast. After arriving in Cape Coast, we are taking another taxi to Jukwa.
Tuesday, September 6th
Today is starting off as another blessed day. The weather is simply beautiful. It has not been over 80F degrees the entire time I have been in Ghana. After breakfast, we will be going back to Cape Coast today to exchange some money and meet with Nana for the interview.
Well, we are on our way to Cape Coast. Kwame is flagging down the Tro-Tro and to my surprise I get to sit in the front seat. As we are traveling down the highway and we are stopping along the way to let off and pick up passengers I am seeing so many things that reminds me how blessed we are in the America. As I am looking out of the window, there are these little children playing in the ditch filled with dirty water from the streets and sewage. One of the little kids is actually drinking from the water running down this ditch. My heart aches so much for the conditions that so many of these children are living under. I think about all the things that we take for granted in America.
We are arriving in Cape Coast and transferring to a taxi to take us to the central part of Cape Coast. I just love walking down the busy streets of Cape Coast. Before and after leaving the States, I get so many comments such as “be safe”. If anyone can only imagine how safe I am walking down the streets of Cape Coast. I have not looked at any news on TV since I left home. However, the only snippets I get of news in the States is what pops up on my iPhone or Apple Watch. I can’t count the number of shootings and stabbing of people in the United States and Canada that I have seen on my phone in the last two weeks. How many atrocities of this nature have you heard about in the news about Ghana or other African countries? There is no COVID in Ghana. Look at the CDC webpage and check it for yourself. Over the last two years since COVID was reported, Ghana has reported only 1,459 deaths and the United States have had a total of 1.04 million deaths. Now, who do you think is safer?
While killing a little time before moving to Elmina to meet Nana Asaf Ohene Kufo II, we are deciding to go by the Cape Coast Castle where the vendors are selling African artifacts and souvenirs. This is the only time I allow my nerves to get rattled. The vendors are so persistent and almost demanding that you buy from them. I now know the game and feel very confident in letting them know what I will accept and not accept. Once I tell them I am not a stranger to Ghana they look very surprise and somewhat back off in being so demanding. Also, I know how to calculate the US dollar to the Cedi so I can gauge what is a fair price and what is not a fair price. Okay, I have had enough so we are walking toward the taxi stand to get our ride back to Elmina.
We are now in the taxi heading to One Africa. Upon our arrival we are greeted by the staff and they are letting Nana know that we have arrived. The energy at this place is indescribable. Listening to the waves of the ocean as we sit under the palm and coconut trees brings so much peace and serenity to my soul.
Nana is approaching and greets us with a warm welcome. Now hear what he has to say in his own words. We are not asking you to agree or disagree with his words of wisdom, and we only ask that you listen so you can add to your knowledge base. During my interview with Nana, Alex Afful, the author of “A Cry & The Lamentations from the Ancestors” arrived and he was invited by Nana to join us in the discussion. His book was released just two weeks ago. There are no coincidences. Bro Alex was divinely chosen to join us today in this conversation.
One Africa Health &Wellness Resort, Elmina Ghana
I am so enlightened and inspired after my conversation with Brothers Nana and Kawbena. The feelings and spiritual awakening on these ancestral grounds cannot be described in words. You have to be here to see and feel it.
Kwame and I are now flagging down the taxi to take us back to Cape Coast so we can begin our journey back to Jukwa.
Wednesday, September 7th
Another beautiful morning in Jukwa. I am looking forward to another exciting and adventurous day. I am scheduled to meet with Bro. Acheampong and the members for the Seamstress and Tailor Council. They are meeting in preparation for the student’s major exam to for completion of their apprenticeship. Students are required to complete three years in their apprenticeship program and then pass a major exam prior to beginning their career as a seamstress or tailor.
After breakfast, Kwame and I are paying a short visit with his family and I am meeting with Prophetess Esi who is well known throughout the Central Region of Jukwa. Now, this is something that I have been wanting to do for many years. From the time I was a little girl I knew I had some type of intuitive gift but was very afraid of developing this God given gift. I will not go into detail some of my experiences over the years, but for some of you who are reading my blogs have witnessed my gift as I have inspired you as you travel your life’s journey. As my favorite author, Dr. Wayne Dyer wrote in his many books and lectures, he says, “to inspire is the God given gift to” live in spirit”.
We are arriving at Bro. George’s home to meet with Prophetess Esi. He prepared a room with three chairs and a candle in the middle of the floor. He is directing me to sit in the chair across from Prophetess Esi and he will sit in the chair between the two of us. He explains that because this is a spiritual ritual no one else is allowed in the room except him and Prophetess Esi. The only reason he is allowed in the room is because she only speaks Twi and he is acting as a mediator to translate to me. Bro. George introduces us to each other and then ask Prophetess Esi to pray. I am feeling something that I can’t describe. There is a feeling that someone or somebody is in the room besides the three of us. This lady is very soft spoken and she begins to share things with me that there is no way possible anyone in this room could have known except me. This is unbelievable! I will not share all of the things that were revealed to me but, it’s real. She did tell me that I was one of four children and two had crossed over. As a matter of fact, tomorrow would have been my baby sister’s 58th birthday. I have never shared that information with Kwame or his father. You can imagine the expression on my face with some of the things she revealed to me. She says what she is sharing is coming from God and not through her own powers. This is a confirmation for me to continue on my life’s journey with an open heart and spirit as I welcome this next Chapter in my life with a new meaning. Because this is a spiritual ritual, we don’t take pictures or record the session.
We are now examining DKA progress on the addition of three new classrooms and the damage done to the computer lab during the awful flood that occurred in the Central Region of Ghana in June. The villages of Jukwa and Sefwi suffered major loses, however, thankfully no one lost their lives.
Immediately, after touring the school building, Bro. Acheampong is calling for us to meet with him at the Council Meeting for the apprentices. Upon our arrival we are given a warm welcome and I am asked to address the group impromptu. Wasn’t expecting this. Oh well, I can do this. Kwame interpreted my words of encouragement to the Council members, the students and their instructors. We are now going back to Rainforest Lodge and relax enjoy the remainder of the day. Also, we are doing second interview with the Chef Hubert
Thursday, September 8, 2022
As I am winding down my time in Jukwa I am taking the time to walk around the Rainforest Lodge to express my gratitude to all the staff and personnel at the Rainforest Lodge. Although the Rainforest Lodge would be considered a 3-star hotel in America, the hospitality and customer service I would rate at a 5 plus. As I have mentioned previously, the food and beverages are the bomb at Rainforest Lodge.
This morning, Kwame is interviewing Emmanuel the bartender regarding his services and the beverages that he makes for Rainforest Lodge. One of my favorites is the “Ginger Pick Me Up”. He was so kind to give me some of his non-alcoholic juice beverages that are all organic and have many health benefits.
After finishing our interview with Emmanuel, we are now heading to Cape Coast to exchange some additional money into cedis so I will have enough to pay for my accommodations and other items. Upon our arrival in Cape Coast we are going to the Bank and the Exchange Office to make the exchanges. As of today, the exchange rate is 9.55 cedi to the US dollar. The rate fluctuates from day to day. The highest it’s been since I have been here is 10.20 cedi to the US dollar.
Before leaving Cape Coast we are walking the streets of Cape Coast and exploring other areas that we have not seen before. As we are looking for the traditional bracelets and jewelry, we are directed to the shopping mall in the heart of Cape Coast. Even Kwame had not been here before. This is such an adventure as I watch and observe the people working and selling their products to survive from day to day. Most importantly, I feel so safe and respected in this environment. Again, you have to be here to understand what I am talking about. This is one time; gray or white hair has its advantage. As Kwame and I am walking through the shopping area, there is this high step and Kwame was assisting me so I would not fall. A Ghanaian Sista is watching and says to him, “No, no, Momme go this way”, and directed me to go another way so I would not trip on the steep step. The care and love shown in Ghana from total strangers is so refreshing and uplifting.
Well, we are now on our way back to catch a taxi back to Jukwa. After getting back to the Rainforest Lodge for a little R & R, I am making my last trip to visit the Appiah-Kubi family and say my good-byes to everyone. This is always a bitter sweet moment for me, because this so much like the extended family that I had as a child growing up in the rural community of Quinton, Virginia. While at the Appiah-Kubi home I spent time talking with Bro. George and talking about my experience with Prophetess Esi. He assured me this was a gift that Sista Esi have had every since she was a very young child. She has been able to make predictions about events that were going to occur before they happened. The people realized that Sista Esi had this God given gift and they nurtured her spiritual development. She is highly respected throughout the Central Region for her special spiritual gifts. Now be mindful, this woman has no formal education nor can she read or write.
It’s getting late in the evening, so we are heading back to the Rainforest Lodge so I can begin packing up to make my journey back to Accra on tomorrow to prepare for journey back to the States.
We are now back at the lodge and I am eating my last dinner at Rainforest before I depart Jukwa.
Friday, September 9th
It is Friday morning and my last day in Jukwa and I am waking up to the sounds of the roosters crowing and music in a far-off distance. As the sun is beginning to rise, I hear the birds singing and other creatures making their music in the air. As I prepare to get ready for my departure, I am taking a few moments to reflect and mediate on the last two weeks and appreciate this space that I am in at this moment in time and all the blessings and opportunities that I have been granted to me by my God. If we only take the time to be quiet, meditate and listen we can appreciate all the wonders of the Godly creations.
Kwame is now arriving and explains to me the logistics for the day. After paying for my hotel accommodations, he will be calling the taxi driver to take me to Cape Coast where we will be catching the van to Accra. This is approximately a two-hour ride.
It’s approximately 9:00 am and we are now loading up the taxi to begin my journey back to the US. As we are pulling out of Jukwa, the folks are beginning to gather in town for Market Day. Market Day is on Tuesdays and Fridays where people gather to sell their good and products. We take so much for granted in America and this is another reminder of God’s grace and mercy for some of us whose ancestors DNA survived the horrendous Atlantic Ocean.
It’s now approximately 10:00 am and we are pulling out of Cape Coast heading to Accra. I have reservations at the Holiday Inn that is located walking distance from the airport. After getting here, I realized I needed a smaller bag so I will not be over packed, so we got a taxi to the city so I could purchase a small carry on bag. However, again I needed to exchange money so we could go out into the streets to begin shopping for my carry on bag and gifts for folks back home. Now, you may wonder why do I need to exchange money so many times in short periods of time. It’s simple. I only want to exchange small increments of money because I do not want to be left with a lot of cedi’s and the exchange back to the US dollar could be a big lost for me. So Kwame and I are walking over to the Marina Mall across the street from the hotel to make the exchange and to get something to eat.
Now we can get ready for our taxi ride and hit the streets of Accra. Another adventure riding in a taxi in Accra as the driver maneuvers around the city to get to our destinations. The traffic on Friday evening is like any major city in the States. So, imagine the traffic situation along with different Ghanaian driving rules and regulations that we would get ticketed for in the States or some jail time. You got to have good nerves and lots of praying when you are riding in one of these vehicles.
Aww…. as we are riding about the streets and the taxi driver is taking us to a street where there are many vendors selling their products and goods. I got lucky; I see the carry on bag that I want to purchase. Also, there are wood carving shops, clothing and jewelry shops. I see one shop where the young lady is very nice and ‘no pressure’. I promised her we would come back tomorrow and buy from her. She is so excited and grateful.
Saturday, September 10th
Today is my designated shopping day. We are returning to the shops that we stopped at last evening. I am waiting on Kwame and in the meantime, I am trying to upload my pictures and blogs. This is getting really nerve wrecking. On the other hand, I should be very grateful because I have Norton 360 and it puts up all kinds of blocks to hinder any malware or security breaches. Unfortunately, I will not be able to upload my blogs and pictures to my website at this time.
Kwame is arriving right on schedule. We are ready to hit the streets. Kwame is a young man with impeccable integrity and character. He is definitely a young man of his word and I never have to wait on him to do what he says he is going to do, and he is my protector while I am on the grounds of Ghana. Kwame texted Bolt and the Bolt driver is here within 2 minutes. You are probably thinking or asking what is or who is Bolt? Well, it’s the same thing as Uber or Lyft in the US. We are now in the car heading back to the street where we stopped last evening.
Upon our arrival, the young lady at the bead shop is waiting on me. There is no pressure! She is simply allowing me look around and decide what I want to purchase. She is so polite and willing to accommodate me anyway that would please me. Oh my, she is the just the person I am looking for. She does her own jewelry designing; earrings, necklaces and bracelets. She is actually designing some bracelets specifically for me for a few of my very special family and friends. She also has the authentic African fans that I am purchasing for a couple friends. After leaving the bead shop, we are walking down the street a few hundred feet to purchase some carvings for my son from a master wood carver. All of his items are authentically created by him. Okay, I think I am finished here.
Kwame is calling the Bolt again for our transportation to the Accra Art Market. Have to get my head in the right place for this challenge. This is where so much pressure is put on foreigners to buy from them. I now know how this game works and I do not allow them to pressure me to buy what I don’t want. Furthermore, I have gotten really good at bartering and negotiating the prices.
We are arriving at the Art Market and the workers are already walking toward us very aggressively. By now, I am tired and hungry, so today is not a good day to pressure me to buy what I don’t want. Also, I know exactly what I am looking for and the shop where I can find it. Kwame is walking with me and making sure no one moves too close into my personal space and escorts me to the shop that I am looking for. Remember now, I have been here several times and I have a pretty good layout of the grounds.
I am moving swiftly to the shop that I am looking for – the Afroproduce Shop. The Founder and Owner, Bro Prince Asare greets me with the warm Ghanaian greeting, “Akwaaba”. Bro. Asare has a sign in his shop that says, “WELCOME TO NO PRESSURE SHOP”. Definitely a man of his word. He designs and crafts his own wood carvings and what makes his place so unique is that he has a carving for all of the HBCU Divine 9 organizations. He and I are working on partnering to sell his products in the States. Anyone interested in one of his carvings, please connect with me and it can be a win-win for Bro. Asare and the Mimosa International Foundation of America, Inc. Okay, I accomplished my mission at the Art Market by beginning the conversation with Bro. Asare on how we can partner together to benefit the Mimosa International Foundation of America, Inc.
We are escaping the vendors and brokers and going through another exit. We are swiftly going to the street to call for our transportation. Whew! Our Bolt driver is here.
We are back at the hotel dropping off my bags and now going for dinner. Long day.
Sunday, September 11th
Rest day as I plan and prepare for my 10 hour trip back to the States.
Stay tuned for the next episode in Queen Ya’s life’s journey.