It is extremely hard to come to terms with the fact that you will no longer be around as I navigate through the corridors of life.
Over the years, you have proven that you are not just a great mother, but a wonderful, thoughtful, understanding, patient, humble, caring friend, confidant and guide.
It still amazes me how many countries you had visited and resided in, cultures decoded, and languages spoken. You left lasting memories everywhere you went. You were a true Nigerian ambassador extraordinaire; you had a knack of carrying a little bit of Nigerian along with you as you explored the world. You were proudly Nigerian.
I am still in awe about the volume and versatility of your written work. Books and journals written in both English and German. You had a passion for reading, writing and conducting research. This was evident in how you annexed our football pitch at the house and chose to construct your medical centre/office with your personal in-built library. I can still remember how upset I was at the time…well, that was until I realised that I never had to mow the lawn again!
You have always been years ahead of your time. I remember how you started offering counselling and dietary consultations in Ibadan, Oyo State back in the earlymid 90’s, out of a leased office space at Agbowo. Of course, there was not much awareness on diabetes and general mental health issues at the time. When the limited resources at hand could not sustain the running of the centre, you decided to move your office to the house. Despite the near non-existent generated revenue, you resolved to keep the centre alive. You wanted to make a difference in the community at all cost.
You were a visionary. I can remember how you forced me to go to a typing school right after high school. This was long before the advent of computers. At the time, I could not understand why and/or what I needed keyboard skills for. I remember how we argued about this for days. But you always had a way of ensuring that I fell in line. This skill eventually proved invaluable all through my working career and till date.
Mom was a real iron lady. The slippers were never too far from her reach. She never accommodated naughtiness…. Well, this was until she became a granny. It still amuses me how my ‘Iron lady’ mother metamorphosed into a gentle grandma.
I was a beneficiary of your home-built library Mom. Most of the reviews and research information I used while studying for a BSc in Human Nutrition at the University of Ibadan were from books and journals obtained from your library.
I can still remember the banter and discussions we used to have in the kitchen during family meals, when I used to argue with you about principles and recent discoveries in the field of Nutrition & Dietetics. You always remained informed and abreast of the latest developments. I was young and smart at the time, but you were still the guru!
We had been through a lot together. So many difficult moments, challenges and disappointments. Especially the disappointment. It was hard and then we lost Bola. I am sorry you had to go through all that stuff. Nevertheless, I am so glad you found Christ. Even when everything seemed hopeless and chaotic you kept the faith. You taught me to always be thankful to God whatever the situation.
I am heartbroken. We have tons of uncompleted work. Plans yet to execute. But alas, God knows best.
This world is clearly not our own, we are just passing through. I am convinced that you have gone to a better place. A place where there are no more tears, no more sorrow and no more suffering. Where all the beautiful Angels constantly sing joyfully and praise the Lord. Where no one gets old and holiness reigns supreme. May your gentle soul rest in peace. I love you Mom. You rocked!
Tunde Asagba (Son)