This archive report was first published on 21 August 2021.
Published on August 21, 2021, a writer's reflection on life in Nairobi and their decision to leave for the countryside.
For many, Nairobi is a city of opportunities, where people come to chase their dreams and make a living. However, for one writer, the city's fast-paced lifestyle and pressure to succeed took a toll on their mental and physical health.
After taking a sabbatical leave to reflect on life, the writer made a trip to the remote side of the country, where they experienced village life for the first time. They were struck by the simplicity and tranquility of the countryside, where life was easier and less stressful.
The writer notes that in the city, people are always rushing to make a living, attending to their jobs, families, and social obligations. In contrast, village life is more relaxed, with fewer disturbances and a greater sense of community.
One of the benefits of village life, according to the writer, is the patience it inculcates in people. They note that in the village, people have to wait for things to grow and mature, such as crops and animals, which teaches them the value of patience and hard work.
After moving to the village, the writer became an occasional visitor to the city, where they would observe the determination of Nairobians and the challenges they face in making a living. They conclude that Nairobi is not for the faint-hearted and that the city's allure and millions of people cannot match the tranquility of village life.