As I presented my passport at the counter, the handling agent immediately excused herself and submitted it to her supervisor. Upon her return, her following words were, “please give us 15 minutes.” 15 turned into 30. 30 into 60. Finally, her manager approached me with a straight face.
Apparently my name had been flagged by the U.S CBP the day before. Strangely enough, they had still not received any feedback as to why. Regardless, my faith to catch that abrupt flight never wavered. This was simply because I knew the moment I welcomed fear into our midst could invite the wrong energy and lead things to spiral downhill. After another ~half hour of waiting, my passport was handed back, and my bags were checked in.
While rushing to board, one of the security personnel approached and asked, “Are you Acheampong?” When I confirmed, he smiled and said, “We googled you.” He then explained that there are a certain group of people who have been using fake passports to seamlessly enter the states. They still hadn’t received any feedback but they somehow believed I’m legitimate. “Keep up the good work,” he added and disappeared.
Despite the unpleasant experience, I was reminded that doing the work — and most importantly having the right intentions — is enough. What I’ve loved over the years, regardless of the rollercoasters, is my firm decision to provide opportunity for others. And through this simple act, it has allowed my light to shine before women and men (Matthew 5:16). Fam, as you navigate the challenges associated with serving others, there’s a high chance you will not be noticed for your output right away. There’s also a high chance you may be at a crossroads on countless occasions. At that point, does calling it quits make sense or do you learn to accept that it’s only a matter of time?
Let me encourage you. Time and time again, the financial rewards and global recognition may not manifest the way and speed at which you envision it. But what you can manifest today are the purity of your intentions; a decision that would position others to blow trumpets to announce the legitimacy of your arrival tomorrow.