1. Materialism
Certain things no longer resonate with me. Expensive cars, fancy outfits, and other flashy possessions no longer hold the same appeal. That’s why I decided to loc my hair and embrace a much simpler lifestyle.
It surprises people in my hometown when I reveal that I’m American. Unless I speak, it’s hard for them to guess. My accent is what always gives it away. I guess as an American, they expect to see me in a fancy hairdo, designer shoes and purses, and sparkly outfits. But instead, I often look so simple???— like the least of them all.
Even though I always appear simple, people still call me “borga,” assuming I’m rich. In Ghana, “borga” is someone from overseas living an extravagant lifestyle in their home country.
But that’s not me.
I strive to maintain a simple lifestyle.
I’m not poor by any means; I live a comfortable life but I don’t feel the need to flaunt it. I’ve been wearing the same pair of Crocs I brought with me when I arrived in Ghana two years ago. They’re still in good condition, and I don’t feel pressured to change them. I overheard some people wondering why I wear the same shoes.
It’s quite amusing how people love to assume.
They don’t know I’m building a house and acquiring real assets, even though I wear two year old crocs.
I’ve been wearing the same shoes not because I can’t afford another but because I like them. They may be two years old but still work wonderfully to keep my feet warm and protected.
I wear the same things for a long time because I am not materialistic.