Home Sweet Home

I was thrilled when I logged into the school placement portal and saw that I had been accepted into one of the most prestigious Senior High Schools in the nation! It wasn’t just about the school itself, but the incredible opportunity to finally go back home for the first time in my life. I had always dreamt of visiting my village, but the chance never seemed to come until after Junior Secondary School (J.S.S), when I was given the amazing opportunity to study in my village and carry on my family’s legacy at that school.
Before this, I had faced a string of letdowns from family members who had promised to take me there. But finally, the moment arrived, and what started as pure joy quickly turned bittersweet when my expectations weren’t quite met. However, as time went on, I grew to love every single thing about being home – from the delicious local dishes to the traditional tunes and dances. I never missed the annual festival during my five-year stay at home.
I made friends who completely changed my outlook on life. Being able to tutor some of my siblings, who have now excelled academically and in their careers, was incredibly rewarding. They showed me that hard work always pays off. My time at home was truly the best of my youth, and I would jump at the chance to go back anytime.
Leaving home to go to a foreign land, where I struggle to make a difference for my people, always brings to mind an old-school song, “Same Train Oh Carry Me Home.” No matter where I am or what I’m doing, I will forever be grateful to my home for being my sweet, sweet home.