Joshua T Berglan@MayorExperience
When I first spotted this staff, I thought to myself, “Oh, that’s freaking cool. I wonder if people actually earn those.”
A few minutes later, King Abumbi, the Fon of Bafut, stood up, walked over to the Queen 👑 holding the staff, and asked everyone in the Youths and the Future line to stand.
I had no clue what was happening, but I loved watching everyone respond instantly to the King’s direction.
Then, moments after he began speaking, the staff was placed in my hands.
I haven’t done anything to earn it yet—and I’m not even sure it’s something you “earn.”
But I absolutely love it.
It’s one of the most unique gifts I’ve ever received—if not the single most unique.
I’ve never been treated with so much love in my life, other than from my mother.
While I don’t yet feel I’ve earned the respect being shown to me, I intend to.
For years I dedicated my life to this work with virtually no audience, but I now see that was all part of the training and refining—preparing me for the mission in one of the world’s most forgotten crisis zones: Bafut, Cameroon.
People have asked me to take photos or videos of the conflict areas, and honestly, I’m not sure I will.
I may not even share the day-to-day realities people face here.
If that information is meant to reach the world, it should come firsthand from those who live it—not from me.
Anyone who knows my story has applauded how I’ve handled adversity and never given up.
But after just a few days here, I realize how easy my life has been in comparison.
Even in my darkest hardships, I was blessed beyond measure.
I’ve often said that once I found joy in suffering, I became free.
Now I know there are deeper levels of joy—and far harsher forms of suffering.
This staff—whether it carries official meaning or not—holds deep symbolism for me.
It will keep my fire burning to complete the mission I came here for.
I feel profoundly connected to this land, to Bafut culture, and I am in love with its people.
Thanks for reading,
Joshua
The World's Mayor
Vive le Cameroun! Strength in unity, forward we go! 🇨🇲
