This blog responds to the prompt above and is also a condensed version of a longer blog I wrote a few months ago.

The best thing I have ever found randomly on the street—or rather, during an ordinary morning commute—was an unexpected conversation. One morning on the bus to UCLA, I was prepared for my usual routine: sitting quietly, working on the student newspaper’s Sudoku, staring out the window, and wondering whether I was awake enough to learn anything that day. Instead, an elderly woman noticed my customized jacket and realized I was African. When she learned I was Nigerian, she immediately began telling me about her travels through Zimbabwe and southern Africa. Before my short bus ride was over, I had received what felt like a personal guided tour through her memories of safaris, beautiful landscapes, welcoming people, spirituality, family, and the authenticity she felt while traveling there.

By the time I got off the bus, I realized that sometimes the best things we find aren’t objects at all, but unexpected human connections. My usual quiet morning commute turned into a cultural exchange and a reminder of how deeply places* can stay with us long after we leave them. She talked about returning to Southern Africa with the excitement of someone planning a reunion, and honestly, she might make it back before I finish my doctoral program! So, here is your invitation, my dear reader and friends: visit Africa. Don’t just take her word—or mine—for it. Go and see for yourself. Peace and shout-out to you, ma’am!

Happy New Month! Almost school time, so let’s make the most of it. Wishing you a fantastic month ahead!

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* I published an article in the Native Land Zine about my work and stay at Blue Oak Nature Ranch Reserve, California, and how places stay with us even after it seems we’ve left. If you would like to read it here.