Moving from the tropical climate of Ghana to the frigid temperatures of Michigan was a culture shock for Samuel. He not only had to get acclimatized to the weather, but also to the individualistic culture of the US. There is a strong communal culture in Ghana; everyone is your brother or sister. Samuel came from a very tight-knit family. Growing up, there were no distinctions like stepbrothers/sisters or even cousins. Therefore, the first two years in Michigan were very difficult for him, especially during the Christmas season when he found himself surrounded by snow and not by family.