Many people wonder, what’s a Sista doing in da desert! It’s been quite a journey, my role has been as a “pioneer” in the background of this project unfolding by the Red Sea. I have been charged with setting up the health and wellness center for the graduate students from over 70 different countries. That is another story for another time.

Today, I took in the beauty surrounding me on campus and a long ride along the Red Sea, reflecting on it’s healing properties. I also got to visit this amazing net sculpture by American artist Janet Echelman, who reshapes urban airspace by setting up public net sculptures that choreograph environmental forces like wind, water and sunlight. Beautiful! Then, the “peaceful” moment was sealed by a surprise gift from California! Adwo (Peace & Calm) Blessings abound when we stop to pay attention.

In my mind’s eye, I can see a stretch of sand and teal blue sea that sends a fresh ocean breeze through open windows, with silk sheer white curtains blowing gently at the side.

Moving to the Middle East has been the best thing for my heart, mind, body and soul care. This major “half time” move from “success to significance” (Buford, 2008) has profoundly demonstrated how quickly time, nature, movement, beauty and creativity rose to the top five of healing factors enhancing my well-being. However, relocating has not been easy and in fact after three years  I am only beginning to really understand this gift!

Many were shocked that I would leave all that is familiar and come to a strange land alone. In the beginning, I too wondered, what in the world made me choose to take such a leap of faith, and negativity saturated my thought life more often than not. Preoccupied with all of the preparation for the journey to Jeddah, there was little time to think through the consequences of leaving America, what it would be like for a woman of African descent in Saudi Arabia, and how lonely I would find myself during the initial transition phase. However, one thing is for sure: Through it all, I have never been alone and my gratitude for this incredible journey is beyond words.

Well My Brothas and My Sistas, It has been awhile!

Thank you so much for keeping in touch I will never forget how you sent a word or two to encourage me along the way.  Hopefully my emails have done the same.

Here are a few photos to capture the essence of my journey thus far. Being close to the Motherland (Ghana) has brought much joy, overlooking and snorkeling in the Red Sea continues to bring much peace, and living in a community of faculty, staff and students from over 70 different countries has truly been a remarkable multicultural experience.