Cultural Differences

After eight long days, we are still experiencing culture shock. The differences could not be any more different in absolutely every way. For example, Ghanaians lack the concept of personal space. In America, we give each other our personal space and do not touch strangers. If we do, we simply say excuse me or apologize. This does not exist here. Some people are extremely hospitable, although others appear as if they would like us to get on the next flight back to America, especially the women. They continually try to take advantage of the fact that we are white and American and assume that we are very wealthy. We have found that we simply cannot be nice. We must be very stern and what we consider to be rude, in order to get what we want and not get taken advantage of. The pace of daily life is also much slower than that of America. We are known for moving at a fast pace, with a purpose in mind. Here, everyone is extremely laid back, moves very slowly, and takes an incredibly long time to get things accomplished.

The food is a whole other story. WE CAN NOT EAT IT!!! This is how we became ill, and now know not to eat anything that was not made and packaged in America. Thank goodness we were prepared for this and brought a suitcase full of foods that are healthy and packed with nutrients needed to survive for a month. We also thank our doctors for forcing us to fill prescriptions for antibiotics to fight off the bacterial infections that we are experiencing. For anyone that has had food poisoning, it is not pleasant to say the least, especially when you are in a foreign country and do not have the comforts of your home. We hope however, we do not get sick again, because we have already used up all the medicine needed for food poisoning.

Several days ago, Raymond brought us to his friend’s house where they were incredibly hospitable and prepared us some local cuisine. Unfortunately, we were barely able to eat it and assume it is what brought us ill. We sat in a circle surrounding a small table where we were lead in a prayer, in which we could not understand. Before we were served by Raymond’s friend’s wife (men strongly dominate this culture), we were passed a small bowl of water where we were to wash our right hand, as that is the hand in which you are to eat with. Next, we were presented with two large communal bowls. One was filled to the top with what is called fufu, and the other with a stew-like concoction. Fufu is a starch-based staple of Ghana and made of cassava, plantain, or yam, and mashed until the starch breaks down and it becomes a gooey ball, then cooked with no water to form an even gooier one. It is dipped into okro stew. This stew included chicken, fish, beans, particularly hot spices, and some sort of substance which makes it extremely gooey. This was very hard on our stomachs, although it is said to be extremely healthy for the immune system. Our systems however, could only handle one small bite. We are thankful for this experience, however will not be trying any Ghanaian staples again. Protein bars until July 26th!

We hope you are all enjoying your summer and are finding our postings both informational and interesting. Happy Fourth of July!