Out of all my mother's children, I took her height. On the other hand, I stole my father's face without an apology. I’m living, breathing proof that even in death, a testament of a union can live on. Usually, I write to you on Saturdays, but having a title that says, my mother’s birthday is Monday, does not slap.
When my father flew to be with the Angels, it was not easy for anyone, but whatever pain anyone thought they felt, she had it ten times worse and more. A promise was broken, however unintentional. A story of forever was lived within five years. He stayed long enough to see and name my brother, but that’s where their story ended. It was her and three boys against the world. Years will pass, and tears will flow, but when tomorrow comes, she’ll stand solid, celebrating another year.
I always say one day I’ll tell her story from my point of view. The pain, the sacrifices, finding yourself in the means of grief, and clinging to faith to see you through the darkness. It would also be a story littered with love, joy, morning devotions learning songs she sang in secondary school, and learning to enjoy beans and macaroni. My mother’s life reflects what it means to be truly selfless, to give yourself to someone or something.
My mother would say, “Whatever someone with both parents can do and enjoy, you’ll enjoy it. You’ll not say it’s because I don’t have a father; I can’t do this or that.” So every day, she showed up and showed out. I remember one of the songs she taught us goes like this:
“ Lord, make me pure in heart
Make my life faithful and true
So when You look at me
It’s Your righteousness you see
Lord, make me pure in heart.”
Tomorrow is my Mothers birthday, and I know people say they have the world's best mum, but mine trumps it all. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. She taught me to love, extend grace, look out for the next guy, and always believe I can achieve anything. Her story is more like, “If life gives you beans, make moi-moi, fry akara, make beans porridge. Make sure you find joy in whatever phase you find yourself.” My mum’s smile is like all the heavenly bodies, beautiful to look at. It captivates you and leaves you mesmerised.
My deepest desire is to be blessed to bless her. I want to make every night she spent worrying a distant memory, one she can hardly remember. I want her heart full, and I want her to rest. So, this is a happy birthday to my mother, my rock, my first love. I can’t wait to see you again and buy yoghurt and all the sweet things you like to indulge in. Tomorrow is my mother’s birthday, and it’s only fitting it remains a public holiday worldwideish. It is perfect.
It’s the last day of the month, so permit me to wish you a happy new month. Enjoy your public holiday because you deserve it. I hope you enjoyed this conversation with SeunCaleb. If you did, don’t forget to subscribe and share.
Happy Birthday to your pillar of support. Days will come when she will need no reminder of all that could have been because she has 3 sturdy living proofs of all that has. Amen and Amen to every prayer.
Happy birthday in advance to your mom 🎉