From December 20, 2010: Well we found out that Elder Boyd would be leaving Teshie to become a Zone Leader in Adenta. He left the following day. The missionary who came to replace him is Elder Seroka from South Africa. He is really western compared to the majority of the Africans because he is used to the Western culture more than other Africans here. He said that they have the same fast food places and businesses we have in the states. While Elder Boyd will be missed, Elder Seroka is very easy going and wants to work hard.
On Tuesday we had the mission Christmas conference. All of the missionaries in Accra (~150) came to together. It was nice to see everyone I know notably Elder Berry and Elder Cosper. Basically the conference consisted of some mission business, eating food, and a talent show. At the end is when Elder Boyd left and Elder Seroka came.
Wednesday we met with Sammy Adje who works at a paint shop and was scheduled for baptism on Saturday. We were talking to him and he mentiond how his brother didn't want him to be living with him if he will be getting baptized into the church. He said he would talk to his brother about it and that we wanted to resolve the confusion by talking to him too. Later in the week we got a call from him saying that he wouldn't be getting baptized because he doesn't want to anger his brother. While it's not what Elder Orchard and I were expecting, we can't force him so we are hoping one day it will work out.
On Thursday We met and taught a lady named Grace, her three children, and several other neighbor children. It has been great to meet some families and teach them how the gospel of Jesus Christ can bring them closer and how they can live together forever. Though the mother can read and speak English her children are much better than her so we are using them to help us. They are really smart and it was great to see them come to church on Sunday with everyone. Elder Orchard and I were talking about our goals in life and plans afterthe mission. One of the things we plan to do is go to some undeveloped area (natural forest, park,. . .) and just conect with ourselves. I want to bring some stuff to write on, my scriptures, a water filter, some food, a tent, and sleeping bag and just relax for a few days and then reenter society.
On Saturday the apartment went to Mama Os and helped her paint her house. It was nice to change up the routine of our day, and she was very happy that we helped her. There was a baby naming party at the house during the time we were there so we got some food and drink as well.
On Sunday there was a talk given on how we need to achieve financial freedom and how when we have money we become truly happy in life. I can see how the people feel this way, their lives are more challenging than the majority of first world citizens and with money they would be able to buy privilege like a house maid, a bigger house, a couch, carpet, a sound system, or tv. There were a few more educated people at the church that didn't agree because they see more of the bigger picture. Money does bring an ease of life, but the things bought only create a temporary happiness and when the high fades, the person is left wanting more. The reason the people lack what they desire is that the majority of people are satisfied with any little gain they make. What separates them from the truly successful people here is that they are always striving for more. When the people do make money they tend not to save and instead work for the weekend and funerals. I was talking to someone about this and they agreed that if people would be more conscious about moving forward and striving for greater things aside from their provision store, then the condition of Ghana would be higher. They mentioned that the people in power are more interested in their own interests than others which keeps the poor poorer and the rich richer. These themes can be seen in our culture as well.
After church we visited Grace and her family where they fed us bonku, pepper, and fried fish. We also visited a man who we have been teaching named Samuel Adjete. He has been coming to church and knows people there, so it's a good sign.
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