How is it possible that anybody born in Segbwema, Kenema, Makeni or Lunsar, can survive the biting cold of Minnesota? Why would anybody born in warm Africa want to live in such a cold place?Well, the answer to the second question is that Minneasota is a good state to start life in. It has good colleges, many well paying beginner jobs, and a very stable economy. The people are friendly and liberal and there are Large Somali, Liberian and Kenyan communities. The state also boasts some of the largest Asian communities in the United States. This diversity
, especially in the metropolitan areas discourage blatant incidents of discrimination.Surviving the Minnesota winters however, takes some time to get used to. For those planning to reside here the following advice would be helpful.
At home, ensure that your heating is adequate and invest in economical heating technology. Your gas company or your local Home Depot can suggest ways you can keep the house warm while avoiding astronomical heating bills. Always keep some matches/lighter and a battery or gas lamp or candle as a back up in case of power outage. Avoid candles if you can as they are a fire hazard.
In your car, carry a warm blanket, a flashlight, a shovel, and a small sand bag. The sand will be handy to pour under your tires for good grip, if you become stuck in the snow. Never travel on a near empty fuel tank and always carry a cellphone if you can afford it, as it could be a real life saver. While driving, avoid braking suddenly and stay well behind the car ahead of you. Finally, never leave home in winter without listening to the weather forecast
After some years, you will get used to the cold. Enjoy some pictures I took on saturday 12/22/07.
