When I was a little boy, life was quite thrilling, and carefree. I lived and played like a bird. Everyone was kinda cool. Perhaps, because I didn't really understand people. But somehow, I felt it was normal for people to display whatever emotions they felt at any point, it was just part of life and relationship. Honestly, no time for hard feelings whatsoever.
Maybe, that was because I grew up in Lagos State where everyone was friendly, and hospitable to everyone (at the time). When people come from different ethnic backgrounds and live together in a place it is kind of normal to relate with, and accept everyone as both strangers, friends and family. There's this sense of nationalism that comes on you when you live in a strange land far from home. You learn to live in peace and harmony, and connect with people the best way you can, at least for safety reasons.
I saw how my Dad related with our neighbors, in a friendly and open-minded manner. And that attitude robbed off on me. Some of my Aunties and cousins used to visit us from time to time. I used to enjoy their stay with us, especially my cousins. I always enjoyed showing them around the area we lived in.
But then, a few years later, my Dad decided to relocate back to our home State. Here, the culture was different. There didn't seem to be much diversity back home, like it was in Lagos. The life here was homogenous, and I initially thought it would feel enjoyable to be among our own kind. I thought wrong, and so did my Dad. The energy back home was giving sullen vibes.
My Aunties and Uncles, and cousins that used to visit us in Lagos became complete strangers. A few of them tried to though, but the energy was not consistent.
One day, my Dad called me and asked, “Have you noticed that we really don't seem to fit in here; almost like we're not needed?”
“Yes, I have. But I think it's just the way of life here.” I replied.
“No, it's not just that. My brothers, your Uncles seem to have something against me. Their attitude is odd. Somewhat hostile, I can't even describe it.” He lamented.
“I think long distance has affected the relationship, somehow.”
“No, I think it's exposure. Lack of exposure for them. We seem to be the only ones with a different disposition because of where we are coming from.” My Dad said
“Let's go back to Lagos, then.”
“No way. I can't spend all my life in another man's land. I came home so I can connect with my roots. You know, stay close, especially now that I'm getting older. We may move to another part of town but not as far as Lagos. let’s just be careful in relating with people here. Everyone will adjust eventually.”
There was some sense in what my Dad said. But no, everyone didn't adjust eventually — only when the weather was fair.
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@kingsley