Ha, mummy is gone! My supporter at the top, my greatest cheerleader! This is unbelievable. Chai, it is too heavy for me.

Since you left, writing this piece has been the hardest thing I had to do, because I had to confront my feelings to be able to do this. Ebuka and Isabelle are just looking at me, wondering why I’m balling so hard, they don’t understand, so let me try and be strong for them. It is hard, but, this is what you had to do all these years, since Daddy died 23 years ago…be strong for all of us. And you were; without a doubt, without a thought for yourself, without a moment to catch your breath.

Who would have thought, that that day I took you to the airport would be the last time I would see you, waving at you, as you were wheeled into the gates! Ah this life just has a way of throwing one the widest curve ball, hmmmm this one hard o.

My greatest consolation has been those few times I was able to make you smile, make you happy, give back just a tiny bit of all that you gave, to me and to others.

During my most trying times, you stood strong by me; always inspiring me, cheering me on, praying for me and sharpening my faith. You are mightily blessed indeed. You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. All that is left now is the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to you on that day– and not only to you, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
( 2 Tim. 4: 7-8)

Mummy the Bold! Mummy the unafraid! You were not afraid to tread where lions could not. That was you. Agwu nwanyi!

So happy, so joyful, very content; That was you.

Drama Queen personified! Ahhh! That one, you had no match o. That was indeed you.

Lover of good things, finery, class; that was you.

Nwa Mama! Nwa Mary! Surely and Proudly! Hmmm, there was no middle ground with that. That was definitely you.

Daughter of the Most High! Friend of Jesus. You always said that Jesus calls you My Special One!

This your going, is still a mixed bag of feelings for me. I know I should be happy, I should be celebrating, but how come i don’t feel like it? God knows I am grateful for giving me a mother like you. I am grateful for your strength, your tenacity, your spirituality, your motherly care to me and all those around you.

We did not lose you o. We gained an angel. Death did not take you. How can! It has no such power over you. You dusted your feet when you had had enough, packed your bags and checked out on your birthday. Hahahaha! Who does that? Na only you o! Mummy of life! And God sanctioned it.

My consolation now is that, all the peace you deserve which the world could not give you, you have finally gotten at the hands of God. You are constantly in the face of God now, before His awesome presence. How glorious! Rest in peace Mummykus.

Your dearest Daughter
Mrs. Nwando Lynda Tai Okakpu