Today we took the 2 hour journey to Afiadenyigba. Saying the word alone brings back so many childhood memories. My aunt used to call my cousin Aku, Afiadenyigba Princess. It was also the place my mom used to threaten to send me when I was bad in school.

 

After 25 years, it was an amazing experience to return. I started the journey by going to my Uncle’s house for lunch. I am intrigued by the traditional greeting of a visitor customs that I have been seeing. Its just so rich.

 

Afiadenyigba is a fishing village where the fisherman use canoes to navigate the lagoon.  We visited several of our family homes. I had not seen my grandfather since I was a baby, so seeing photos of him and my grandmother was emotional.

 

Then we journeyed deeper in the village where my father showed me the place he grew up.  I loved the spirit in the village. I am blessed to have a father who is well respected among his people, because it gives me the opportunity to see reverance and respect. This village was amazing in so many ways. Beyond the fact that the man that raised me grew up here, I found the people there to be so powerful and humble at the same time.

 

Asmeret was my hero in the village. Besides assisting me shoot video, I was amazed by her ease amongst the men of the village. i say the men, because all the women were cooking and doing other things. She sat next to me and talked to everyone and even ate the native food.  I thought she was great before, but after yesterday, she became my inspiration for greatness.

 

We sat with the men of the village observing their body language since we couldn’t understand what they were saying. My father has this “Tony Soprano” vibe about them where ever they go. Its actually quite impressive. My uncle is very quiet and laid back, but at the slightest thought of someone harming his family, you can see him ready to protect. We were in good hands.

 

I don’t think I have the words in me to express the power of the village.  I’ll end it with saying they have so little, but have so much at the same time.