I cannot believe that it
has been a year since I spoke with you on the phone and you told me that you
are not feeling well. Yes, it sure has been a year since the last time your adorable
kids would rush to the dining table at the beckon of your coaxing voice and the
aroma of your well prepared delicious meals. It’s been twelve months today
since your doting husband last heard you affectionately hail him “NZE 1.” What
about mama? Do you know that she once told me that she misses your sweet musical
laughter and your favorite pastime of simultaneously changing the ringing tone cell
and hers? I bet you also miss doing that. As for us, my Dear, the last time we
were together we all recalled with love how you made each of us call you “Ash Born.”
Such memories bring us much joy and happiness and is always fresh on our minds.
How could we forget the love that emanated from you to everyone you encountered? Since your journey last year, even the Abakaliki
branch of the Honorable lady knights of St. John still remember and talk about
the energy your brought to the group especially when you led them group in group
parades. No I did not forget your job at the local government. Some of your
former colleagues still talk about how much joy you brought and how your
absence has left them dumbfounded.
On the other hand, my unwavering
faith in God makes me believe that it’s been an entire year since you made
yourself at home with God, the Cherubim and Seraphim. Knowing you, I imagine
that you have also made friends, lots of them among the angles and heavenly beings.
I hope you have learned a lot and is still learning everything you can in your
new home. You were a good observer; I trust that you are learning as much as
can so that your transition will continue to be easy and smooth. You must have also
observed that heaven is orderly that the way things are over there. That being
so, is it right to assume that you are no longer as carefree as you use to be? Yes,
you may have a new heavenly community, but remember not everyone is a stranger
to you right? Have you seen dad? Yes, I know you and him never met before he started
on his journey, but remember that you are now is a place where there are no
shrouds, a place of eternal reunion. You also have Bonny your adorable son and
other friends and relations.
Thank you for remaining
in touch, and for reminding us that a family once formed, cannot be unbroken by tears, pain, suffering or death. But
most importantly, thank you Eyi for reminding us to celebrate your many gifts,
your new life. You will always be dear and we will always love and miss you.
Audieu most Beloved Ash
Born.
May you gentle Soul continue
to rest in Perfect Peace.
Amen.
