- RELATIONSHIP: Mentor
- Country: Nigeria
- Posted On: August 11th , 2023
- State of Origin: Imo
- Address: Isiala Oparanadim in Ahiazu Mbaise LGA
UNANSWERED QUESTIONS IN A COOLER FOR THE RESURRECTION MORNING
Uncle Obi, the thought of your demise is hurting but the fact that this excruciating thought is going to be with us for as long as Jesus tarries is totally heartbreaking. My siblings and I grew up loving you with all our hearts, we had no reservation for you first loved us. The memories we shared with you and 'aunty nneka' remain a point of personal reset in our hearts. You had a name beautifully crafted for me (Nanando). You thought me to be ME. I remember vividly your soul pricking counsel at the verge of my entry into the university, those words germinated as seeds and brewed courage, boldness and willpower in me.
Uncle Obi, as I sailed through the wavy waters of the shores of Nigeria, you were always not far with a spare life jacket of advice and care, you were so far away in Nigeria yet I could almost feel you around saying those words, "Nanando, just be you". You had my email password and knew my little pranks as a young man. Uncle Obi, you knew everything about me. I remember that faithful day, you were asked by my parents to drop me back to School at St. Augustine Anglican Seminary, Nbawsi while they were away for Lambeth Conference, I had to soak my clothes in water because I didn't want to go back that day thinking you would reschedule, only for you to bundle me alongside my wet clothes back to school as late as 7:30pm screaming "Nnamdi, you must learn to be a man". Really?? Now I wonder, how could anyone have cared this much? Uncle Obi, I have become a man, even the scripture says, a laborer deserves his wages, Uncle obi, where are you?
Even in my ministerial journey, you came along with a more refined approach, guiding me with an eagle eye not relenting with the rod. As I picked the paper of my first posting as a Postulant, the wind of luck landed me under your care in St. Andrews Ogbor-hill, Aba. I was happy thinking it would be the same old jolly relationship until that faithful morning, you yelled at me for something you would have overlooked if it were on the other side of the divide. I braced up, learning the lesson that later became a defining moment in my journey as a young Priest. Honestly, you were the least person I ever imagined would exit this evil world at this time. Uncle Obi, I had plans oooo! I never knew my fruit would not ripe within my mind given time frame, else, I would have adjusted it. Everyone says we cannot question God, but I'm reassured by the fact that my many unanswered questions are left in the cooler for the resurrection morning. Mummy Jewel, please take heart. Daniel, Michael and Prisca, my little siblings, please be consoled, Daddy was a great man and we'll keep trailing his steps, the baton is on us now!
My Wife and I do appreciate God for his life. He was truly impeccable in all human standards.
Rest in Peace my Spiritual Father Rest in peace my eloquent expositor extraordinary Life has no guarantees indeed. My heart bleeds!
Rev. Nnamdi C. Mrs Cynthia Ezuoke