wonderful world

It's the manuscript, the main reason i started reading on West Africa, more so Nigeria. I wanted to write a story that was acurate, though i will admit it's hard to write on something one initially has no clue about. How could i write a story on the Biafran or Ogoniland issue when a few months ago it was foreign to me? Sure the soothing jazz vocals of Ella Fitzgerald in the background as i research on something that's new and exciting makes me feel like Jackie Collins should on a good day, though learning a mindful about anything is still hectic.I wanted to learn however, thus begun my quest to know more. Over the past few months i've read enough West African novels and reports to last a lifetime and my friends think i've lost it. When i do say i'm going to Cameroon, they roll they eyes and think i'm barmy. When i meet with Kwame (my friend from Benin) to watch him ccok up a West African storm (an aquired taste, i believe)the same friends think i'm selling out... I just smile and take in everything i can. (great friends i have don't you think!)
It's just as a southern African i've always had preconceived ideas about our West African brothers and sisters. Previously once anyone opened their mouth and the signature accent flowed out, i'd instantly switch off. I'm not proud of the admission though it goes to show how honestly closed minded i was.
On the other hand, i've just discovered all the 'Indian' looking people who live in Forsdburg ain't all Muslim nor from India. I recently became friends with a guy from Jordon and discovered the only thing he has in common with al the other 'Indian' looking people around him is the fact he speaks Arabic. He actually doesn't celebrate divali nor does he chew on the red chewy stuff though he does do juma. Amazing how we usually judge people based on the stereotypes we claim we don't habour in our minds. Meanwhile i've been reading a lot of Chris Abani and listening to Ghananian music... it is a wonderful world out there, if you give it a chance!