I am amused at how all the people I have talked with about Ghana share such similar responses, “Ghana is the best country in Africa, it’s full of nice people, take the trotro it will save you money and defiantly try the Fanice ice-cream.” I have talked with students from Oregon, professors, and Ghanaians. What I have been told about Ghana, I have learned is true.

When we landed in Ghana everyone was waiting there turn to de-board the plane. A man on the other side of the aisle got my attention as though he was trying to talk to me. Instead, he was really trying to get the attention of the man to my left. Since the man to my left had a crumb on his face, the stranger on the other side of the plane passed him a napkin and simply pointed to where the crumb was. I was surprised to see someone go out of their way to simply hand a stranger a napkin to wipe a crumb off their face. This is just one example of many of how I have noticed and experienced pure kindness from the Ghanaians.

As this is typed my second week in Ghana is coming to an end. I have come to a realization, I am no longer shocked and taken back at how genuinely caring and helpful the Ghanaian people are. I have many stories to share of how generous, kind, helpful and comforting the local people are. As I walk alone for the first time on the streets, I was a bit nervous and scared of traffic and finding the right trotro. My face might have shown the fear I felt inside. Regardless, I am thankful to say I have lost count of how many times ladies have asked me, “where I am going, are you lost?” Having strangers go out of their way and notice me as a foreigner in Ghana brings me comfort. But even if I am not approached, I feel comfortable asking others for help.  I have learned and grown confident that no matter how lost I might be; I will be just fine because someone is willing to help me find my way.