16/06/2024
The Gift of a Father
Today, I celebrate a man who has shaped my life in ways words can hardly express. My father.
There were times, as a young child, I questioned your love. I remember the times when you would make me mix gravel and serve while you were completing our house. I would always wonder, 'What does this man think I am? Ter could could do these things at least; why do I need to be part of this?' 🤣 Then there were the long hours of farming, harvesting, and processing melon (I have never enjoyed processing egusi) and rice. And oh! the days of trekking home, from government model school to old brewery quarters under the scorching sun, only to start my chores right after.
I remember the constant anger towards you. I knew it was your way of teaching and most times, you couldn't afford to give us better experiences, I still resented you for it.
Now, with the benefit of hindsight, I see those moments for what they were – invaluable lessons in responsibility, hard work and resilience.
My father's quiet strength has taught me that you don’t always need to raise your voice to be heard. He never yells, never imposes. But, he is the constant voice of reason, the re-assuring presence that guides us through.
At every pivotal moment in my life, when I made decisions that he was sometimes not comfortable with, because he thought it was not safe for me, or, as he would say; "you are too young to go through this or you are working too hard", his response would always be: "You have my blessings."
He doesn’t always have the resources to support every venture, but his trust in me has always been more valuable than any material support.
It is a gift of confidence, a testament to his belief in me and my ability to navigate the world with integrity and determination.
My father's love may not be measured by grand gestures or lavish gifts but by the quiet wisdom he imparted and the unending support he offers. He has shown us that true love and care don't require much – just a heart full of faith and a willingness give all you can and to let those you love find their own path.
Every challenging experience, every tough lesson, has shaped me into the person I am today, and will grow to be. I owe my work ethic, my discipline, and my perseverance to my father.
He has taught me to strive, to dream, and to believe in myself, even when the odds were against me.
Dad, you are the foundation upon which our dreams are built and my deepest wish is to one day repay you in ways that reflects my gratitude. I dream of the day I can buy you your dream car(s), beautiful house(s) and take you and mum around the world in the finest dresses.
But until then, I want him you to know that we love you, we appreciate you, and we pray that you reap the fruits of your labor.
Thank you for every lesson, every blessing, and every bit of wisdom you have shared.
Today and always, we celebrate you.
Happy Father's Day!
