My relationship with the family dated back in the 80s before I attained adulthood. I saw you went through thick and thin for your family especially to have enough food on the table and the training and welfare of the children which later spread to all that encounters you. Your home was a rendezvous for all that seek all manners of assistance, the hungry, the widows, the less privileged, there is more than enough to carter for the house and all ‘True callers’ to the house. It is therefore not surprising that your children in their humble upbringing farmed a great deal to have you continue to feed the hungry.
MAMA CHINEDU, you saw me grow even before other children came of age. You accepted and mentored me unconditionally. You did not deny me your kindness and love. You protected me like a mother you are and a true friend. I learnt from you the powers of ‘thanksgiving’ and ‘praises’ to supportive children and the concept of ‘support’ to those yet to find their feet. ‘Emeka Oke’ as you always call me when you feel my presence in the compound melts my heart. You never allowed me to leave your presence until you are sure I’m good to go.
You protested each time you did not see me knowing that I’m home. I always did come to see how you are fairing. The last time you expressed your pain in tears was not the pains of death but the physical incapacitation to look after those whose burden of upbringing were laid on your shoulders. I felt your pains but you deceived me into believing all is well. You smiled as you asked after your children Amanda and Onyinye but I had no feeling you are up to something that would inflict everlasting pains on all of us. When the call came, I did not believe my ears but the reality of our moment is that you have left without saying ‘goodbye’.
Though you left, your spirit will ever live. It is well with your soul.
MAMA CHINEDU, ‘Dinadogde’ ‘Dinado’.
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