Berty's Story

My story

I’m sitting next to the window and start seeing the bright lights of Accra. As we’re about to land, a feeling of excitement begins to rumble in my stomach. I notice me thinking about all the things I’m going to do as soon as we touch the ground. Of course, hugging every bit of love out of my grandmother is on top of my list. I only get to see her once every two years, so reuniting with her always makes me feel like I have to hold on to her as much as I can. In a way, I think this love is the reason for me to keep going to Ghana. It is a type of love that can make you feel full and not longing for a dessert. After my stay in Ghana, I always feel ready to tackle every challenge and face every problem I have. I don’t know what it is that makes her let other people feel that way. I guess it is because she is so naturally caring. Being a mom of six daughters and having to raise them on your own must force you to have a big heart for everyone.

All of a sudden, I feel my stomach really rumbling. The feeling of excitement turns into a feeling of hunger. The KLM airplane food did not really satisfy me and I start to think about my grandma’s food. I already know what her first question is going to be: ‘What do you want to eat?’ I can almost taste her delicious meals. The sugar bread with egg in the morning. Or the sweet jollof rice with chicken in the afternoon. Let’s not forget about the freshly pounded fufu in the evening. Her meals fill me up enough to be longing for the next one.

And I think that’s how seeing her feels like in general. And I know I will be filled with her love and desiring for more. The love that leaves me good memories, encouragement and strength for the next two years to come, but also make me miss it before I even land. All of a sudden, I feel the plane descending and this feeling of excitement pops up again. I can’t wait to see my grandmother.