The Big Tipper

We arrived at the bank. Not what I was expecting at all. The car park was opposite the bank and we had to cross a busy road. There was a Zebra crossing, but this was Accra. Step out and you could be doomed. Unless of course you are a Road Seller, as they seem to lead a charmed life. Like Jeff's car the bank was air conditioned. I needed it, it's hot in Africa. I settled in a chair, Jeff banked, I sat more. The water was cool, and the guard smiled. There is one guard outside the bank and another inside. It is the same in the majority of public buildings. In the banking centre there are armed guards everywhere. Different uniforms but the guns are similar. Like the fish, the guns are big. We crossed safely to the bank. A large guy in a simple uniform. He carried two sticks, one with a green flag and one with a red flag. He waved, the traffic stopped and I felt safe. When we left the bank Jeff and Tamara did not see me tip him a 1 Cedis noted. You can't put a price on safety. As my girls will tell you, crossing the road is a big thing with me. 1 Cedis, it was a good price. No negotiation, just a swift hand movement like a handshake and a four way folded note inside resting in the palm of the hand. You don't have to be visible to be kind. He was worth more, but I had to keep my money as I didn't know where my African journey was taking me next.