Ghana Rosh Hashanah
To me, Rosh Hashanah is about being with family. My dad prints out packets of prayers that we all read through. We always go through them fast, because we can smell the brisket, mashed potatoes, chicken, and all the good food this holiday brings, in the next room.
We eat apples and honey to signify a sweet New Year, but I think it is the people I always share those apples and honey with, who make the New Year so sweet.
I celebrated Rosh Hashanah last night, not with my family, but with my friend Alana, and a bunch of families who work for the U.S. Embassy. Going into it, I didn’t know what to expect. Would there be a long service? Would there even be a party? I tried to keep my expectations low.
When Alana and I walked in, we felt right at home. There was an eclectic mix of families. There were teachers, diplomats, politicians, founders of NGO, and lots of little kids. After talking for a while, it was time to say some prayers and eat. I was so happy when we all gathered around the dining room table and the hostess passed out a packet she had printed of all the prayers, very similar to the packet my dad makes.
It was obvious that to all the people standing around the table, this holiday was about finding comfort in the company of the people around them, and of course, the good food.
I shared apples and honey with a new group of people, while still feeling connected to my family back home. From so far away, I felt the warmth and love of the Rosh Hashanah party I am used to.
