I’m siting at my airline gate in preparation to return to the States.  I’ll be honest- a big part of me doesn’t want to leave The Gambia.  There are many things here that are not as sophisticated as the U.S., but life is simpler here, more straightforward.

I’ve met some really great people in these past two weeks and would have loved to stay and explore/solidify those connections.  However, I have a LOT of stuff going on in the U.S., including giving some TLC to my new business- The Sunshine Clan.  I really need to focus to ensure high quality & value add for my senior citizen clients.  Yes, I absolutely know I’m spreading myself thin right now- all the more reason to reflect & release any & all bullshit in my cypher with a quickness.

I find I have no patience for people, places, or things that don’t add positive value to my life.  It might be age & wisdom, but I think this Africa experience has a lot to do with this (kinda) newfound IDGAF-ness.  I’ll take some time to unpack this over the next few months in the U.S.

Regarding people in The Gambia- there is no middle class.  Either you’re hooked up and part of the societal fabric of the nation or you serve it.  It’s pretty simple.  Some repats are replicating societal microcosms they had in the US or the UK.  I don’t see a lot of folks trying to create any “transcendental” form of themselves.  I find that if you were an asshole in the US, you’re one when you move to The Gambia, etc, etc…  I’ve stepped square into a couple of petty disputes over egos & pure foolishness.  I’ve made a conscious decision to stay far away from the fray.  I just don’t have the appetite for drama & intrigue.  I wish both factions good luck in their efforts to besmirch the other in the name of wasting valuable time.

On the other hand, I’ve mentioned providence has seen fit to reveal some truly amazing folks to me, here in The Gambia.  I’ve started to cobble together my network of friends & business contacts aimed at making life better for other repats and Gambians alike.  The positive energy coming from my circle is infectious & real.  We all want each other to be better and it feels pretty damn good!  I feel my ancestors around me giving me strength, literally every day in The Gambia.  But, wow- I’m heading back to the U.S. in the midst of a Presidential debacle & unprecedented tensions regarding COVID-19 & racial injustice.

So, yeah- I’m sitting here at my gate in Banjul, Gambia, being all thoughtful and stuff.  This experience has been a lot to unpack.  The next few months will be a real test to see if I can successfully live in both worlds.  I’ll report on the goings-on when I can, but please send me positive energy.  I appreciate your interest in my thoughts.  Thank you.